Flipped Into Place

You're My Part

Alex's POV:

It wouldn't be the first time I got sent to the Principal's and not once was I ashamed. However, I am currently freaking out. First of all, I did nothing to dishonor anyone or anything. Second, I told myself I'd turn a new leaf and never again be sent for any disciplinary action since I don't plan on committing something that bends the rules. Plus, I wouldn't want Juli to think I was bad news.

"Come in," someone said behind the door of the office.

"Uhm, I was called?" I nervously said.

"Yes, dear. we have your mother on the phone," said Mrs. Elaine, the secretary.

Phew! Thank goodness. Hold up, if my mom's calling, I must be in trouble. Couldn't be. We spoke neutrally last night on our usual daily call. You know what, Alex? maybe if you'd just pick up the line and see for yourself rather than dwelling over something that hasn't even happened yet.

"Mom?"

"Hi dear. H-How's school? Sorry to disturb you, this couldn't wait until our evening call," I heard my mom stutter between sentences.

"Is there something wrong?" I asked, undeniably uneasy.

Before she could say a word, I heard the background sounds of a hospital. That steady ding dong noise before you hear the dispatcher over the all around speakers. "Requesting for Dr. Emmett, we need you in room 304."

"Mom, why are you at the hospital?"

"Sweetie it's your grandfather. He didn't want me to mention any of this but you have to know," she paused a while.

On the other line, I could hear her breathing take its course from trying to keep calm and losing its pattern.

"Mom, breathe," I reminded.

She took a deep one and I swear I could hear her gulp.

"He fell badly from a ladder trying to change the lightbulb."

I get the gut feeling that she's in a state of quandary.

"How is he?" My voice gave off my anxiety that moment.

I loved my grandfather dearly. He's always been a kindred soul and has been there for me in both good times and in bad. He is the only person I could truly confide in.

"His spine was damaged, he's still unconscious," she shuddered a little.

I was shocked, "Oh gosh, is he going to be okay?"

"Yes, they're dealing with it now. But the doctor found it strange that his muscles were stiffer than it's supposed to be, even in his old age, so they decided to run him through short tests while they're dealing with his condition. We just found out and he was diagnosed with a prion disease. They'll be undergoing another thorough inspection to identify its nature."

"Did the doctor affirm its condition?"

"That's to be examined as well."

I worried in silence.

Even my mom got her tongue caught as she knew how deeply devastated I was by this news.

"Alex, you need not worry. Go ahead and resume your class, I just wanted to tell so you wouldn't be too startled when you come visit. Remind me when your semester break is?

"This weekend."

"Great, can't wait to see you!" She sighed. "I miss you bud."

"Miss you too mom."

After the phone call, I went straight to the library. About my thoughts in bending the rules and stuff... This is an exemption. I had to find out more about the disease. My only prior knowledge of it was that I heard somewhere that it gravely affects the brain.