Flipped Into Place

City Lights, Town Delights: II

Alex's POV:

He's in good shape. The nurse's words weren't much of a convincing statement.

Pin drop silence made a ringing in my ear as we dropped down for a seat. There were more than enough for us since the hospital is massive and the private room itself carries its title. There was a convenient dinning area, about three soft armchairs, and a wide, elongated sofa, for those who wish to not leave their loved ones for the night.

Just then, a knock sounded out the door. Dad slowly yanked it open revealing his driver. From what I knew, after dad's short meeting at the office a while ago, he'd have the rest of the day off since he promised he'd leave it open for my arrival. So technically, his driver shouldn't even be here since he didn't need to chaperone my dad to different places for work. He must've been sent for.

"My apologies Sir Collins. I do not wish to disrupt your rekindlement but I was just phoned by the office and they require your presence promptly."

"My, can't it be put on hold? I believe I was approved of a leave today, was I not?" dad said. He didn't sound oppressive as other executives who tallied their primacy righteous of consulting their subordinates like servants. He would've made a fine senior director.

"Precisely, although a slight troubleshoot is in need, sir. I presume it's exaggerated, but they claim that the team's falling apart."

"Madness," he said, almost in a whisper. "State that my son has just arrived and I wouldn't want to be disturbed for the rest of the day, will you?"

"I have, sir. I've brought it up countless times but they begged and pleaded to have you come over."

Dad opened his mouth, looking like he was still attempting waver him off.

"Dad, if you need to go, we totally understand."

"But-" he started. He exchanged glances between Juli and I, and to his assistant, looking troubled. I knew he didn't want to leave, but not letting him go might cost him his job. "Are you sure, son?"

"Positive. We'll be fine," I suppressed a faint smile.

He went over and placed a heavy palm on my shoulder. "Thank you. I'll be back as soon as I can, I promise."

I nodded. He offered Juli a short smile before giving mom a kiss, and walked out of the door.

The rest of the time there was spent waiting for Popa to finally rise. About an hour in, I noticed mom looked weary. I went over to her and suggested she'd take a nap and willingly, she did. Perhaps she spent her nights in thoughts. Just as I did. I arranged the pillows adequately on the sofa and tossed over her a blanket. Her eyes shut instantly and before long she was deep in slumber. I went back to Juli's side on the armchair.

"Is she okay?" she asked.

"Yeah, don't worry."

"Are you okay?"

I hesitated. Was I? Being home doesn't change the fact that Pops laid limp on a hospital bed. And that high possibility of being forgotten.

"I'll be fine. Once he wakes," I gave an expressionless smile. She wasn't the slightest bit persuaded.

"Tell me more about him," she turned to her side and situated her chin on her raised arm which rested on the armrest, showing full attentiveness. I had to admire her beauty and sink it in for a few seconds.

"Come on, Lia, I've told you everything," I couldn't refrain from grinning.

"That can't be all, I'm sure. Wait, I've been meaning to ask, what's with 'Popa'? It's like you've gone British at it."