trash. /// B.E. (COMING BACK SOON)

Ch. 2: Housewarming

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author's note(s):
• 'Toné' is pronounced like 'Tony' (toe-nee)

Beginning of Chapter two
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You're painfully aware of the way your sneakers squeak against the slick-tile floor, walking up to the front desk.

"How can I help you?"

"Hi, I'm here as a visitor to see Toné Ortegos— room number 347."

"Okay, have a seat and a nurse will come get you in a second."

"'K, thanks."

You turn around, scanning over the front-waiting room for an open chair but see none. You decide to just stand by the water fountains, feeling awkward with your placement as you're now just slightly in the way of everybody passing by.

Luckily, you didn't have to act like a wallflower for long as you heard your name being called, looking up to see Nurse Wellers waiting for you with a smile.

You know Jane well, and have made sure that she's the nurse that cares for your dad each stay.

"Hey, welcome back. I'll take you straight to him."

You both enter the elevators, and you press the '3' button for her as you walk inside.

"Thanks. So, your father— he's been admitted inpatient at the hospital today. I'm sorry, but he needs the medical support and is no longer safe to go home in-between treatment. We need to discuss our next course of action with him present, but it's likely that we will now begin hospice care— I'm afraid he doesn't have much time left, Vadalynn."

Your lungs feel squeezed shut as you reach your hand out for something to grab, finding the metal railing behind you to be the first option available.

"Oh wow, um—"

"I know that's a lot to take in, so think about it all first. And there's no need to respond now. Take some time to talk to him, and you can call for a nurse when you guys are ready."

You exit the elevator once the doors open, Jane following close behind while you walk towards your fathers room.

"How much time do you think..."

"No more than 2-3 months."

You nod, coming face to face with the door of room #347 too soon for your liking.

"Good luck. I'll be right down the hall."

You thank Jane as she walks off, leaving you alone to face the situation which you've avoided since your father's diagnosis.

The door creaks as you push it open, your face cringing as you shut it closed behind you.

"'Lynn— I've been looking forward to seeing you, my little ladybug."

You try your best to laugh, pulling a chair up to sit on the left of your dad, taking his hands in yours.

"Hey pops, how you holdin' up?"