A Sequel To "Eternity"~ While She Was Sleeping.

Chapter Nineteen~Surprising My Talented Daughter.

-Elena-

Physiotherapy was going brilliantly well after more practice. I was getting stronger and more mobile. My faith had restored. "You were amazing today! You're nearly there! I can't believe she said you can have crutches now! Next thing, you'll be coming home my love! I can't wait to have you home again Elena!!" Joe exclaimed excitedly as we returned from another session. I giggled and blushed at his kindness. "I love you." I told him. He ran his hand through his hair whilst grinning at me. "I know." He replied, quoting Han Solo from Star Wars. He left me briefly to meet Gracie, Sam and Chrissy, who Marcus dropped off. As pure usual, I got bone crushing hugs from all of them and a huge variety of stories thrown at me.

"How are you feeling about your performance tonight Gracie?" I questioned her. Gracie was performing in her autumn talented show at school. "Nervous, but I'll have dad, Uncle Alfie and Aunty Zoë there. It'll be really fun though." She answered. I smiled at her and held her hand and sighed. "I'm so sorry I can't make it sweetheart." I told her. She shook her head dismissively. I lied to her, I was planning to surprise her. "You'll be there in spirit mum. You need to focus on getting better." She reassured me. I kissed her forehead happily. "I'm so happy that I brought such a thoughtful and kind hearted daughter into the world." I beamed. A wide smile appeared on her face and she leaned into my open arms. I wished her luck when it was time for her to go. I then waited for Joe to return and pick me up. He helped me get dressed and to stand with my crutches. He aided me into the car.

Joe started the engine. All of a sudden, I felt like all the air had escaped from my lungs, I gasped for a breath, feeling like I was being enclosed in a tight, dark space. I held my heart, it was beating extremely fast. I felt light headed and frightened. It hurt to breathe, swallow, chew, look around at my surroundings, move my arms and legs. It took all my energy to keep breathing. It was like there was an aura of grey around me. It was a mist that wouldn't rise. A state of fear and anxiety that I couldn't see myself through. I felt a terrible weight on my shoulders. It was as if a giant boulder was laid on me and I couldn't straighten up or catch my breath entirely. A single tear rolled down my cheek. "Elena, shit, Elena sweetheart, stay strong my love, it's okay, focus on my voice, nothing is going to hurt you, I'm here, I'm here. I love you." Joe's voice spoke to me softly. He held my hand, which was trembling, I took a deep breath and thought of Gracie, my heartbeat slowed down and the wall of fear that enclosed around me disappeared. "I'm okay." I said weakly. He looked at me concerned before smiling slightly and kissing my cheek and pulling away.

I walked slowly and carefully with my crutches. I followed Joe into the school. "Mrs Sugg, so lovely seeing you up and about." The headmaster greeted. I nodded and thanked him. I walked to the front with row Joe where Alfie and Zoë were waiting for us. I greeted them both with a hug before sitting down. After a few acts, the music teacher Mr Dawson stood at the podium to speak. "The next performance is a from a very dedicated and talented student of mine who will be performing her cover of Please Don't Stop The Rain by James Morrison, please show your appreciation for Grace Sugg!" He announced. I cheered extremely loudly as Gracie walked on the stage from the sides. Her eyes lit up when she saw me. "I love you." She mouthed to me before she sat behind the grand piano. She sang so beautifully. I cried with pride. My little girl was all grown up and so beautiful and gifted, I felt so incredibly proud of her. She ran straight into my arms as soon as the show finished. "I can't believe you made it! And you're walking!!! Thank you! You're the best mum in the world." Gracie said happily. "I'm so proud of you darling. Your voice is beautiful. I wouldn't have missed it for the world. Besides, I have good news, I can return home in three weeks, just in time for Chrissy's and Sam's birthdays in October!" I informed her. She sobbed out of pure joy and I held her. I was so happy to see my baby smile.