Journey

05: Comfort (H)

"Miss Green?" I call out her name politely, holding a plate of half-eaten chocolate cake within the grasp of my hands.

"Yes, dear? Is there something that you require?" Miss Green's tone is as gentle as ever, a warm invitation to speak whatever was in my mind without feeling anxious or hesitant.

I shake my head in reply to her question, and look away from her as I continue to speak, because I know that this would most likely be a sensitive topic for her. "You husband... he's not coming back, even for his son's birthday?"

Understandably, it takes a moment for Miss Green to process my words and to gather her thoughts - I could hear her take rhythmic rounds of deep breaths to try and prepare herself before answering my question. Not only that, but when she does start to speak, her voice falters and is much quieter than usual, leading me to the realization that she must've tried her hardest to bring her husband back home for the special occasion, but it was an effort proven futile.

"No... he refuses to come. He said he's busy with work affairs, but that's what he always says! Last Christmas, he had used the exact same excuse. Same with last Easter, last Thanksgiving... everything."

Miss Green's voice quivers slightly as she shares this information, her disappointment evident despite her attempts to remain composed. It's clear that this isn't the first time her husband's absence has weighed heavily on herself and her son.

"I understand," I reply softly, feeling a pang of sympathy for her. "It must be difficult for you and Steve."

She nods, her eyes briefly welling up with unshed tears before she blinks them away. "It is, but we'll make the best of it. Steve understands too, even though he wishes his father could be here."

As I watch Miss Green, a sense of gratitude washes over me for having such a caring neighbour. Despite her own struggles, she always manages to offer support and kindness to others.

"Thank you for the cake, Miss Green. It's really delicious," I offer a small smile, trying to lighten the somber mood that has settled between us. She returns the smile, albeit a bit strained. "You're welcome, dear. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

With that, I bid her a temporary goodbye and head back to the guest room, reflecting on the complexities of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones. These moments will soon turn into memories, locked deep within your heart, sometimes hidden beyond reach.

I guess Miss Green's situation isn't really much different from mine either.

As I walk into the guest room, my gaze flickers to the clock, noting the time.

12:30 PM.

With a few hours to spare before visitors are allowed at the hospital, I sink onto the bed, my mind drifting to thoughts of the past few days. It's been a whirlwind of emotions, from confronting Omar's anger to awaiting a heartfelt apology. The weight of our strained relationship hangs in the air, leaving me torn between hope and uncertainty.

Lost in contemplation, I'm startled by a gentle knock on the door. Steve's familiar voice filters through, accompanied by the innocence that radiates from his youthful aura. He stands at the threshold, a birthday cap perched on his head, the number 8 boldly displayed.

"Hi, Hussaiba!" Steve chirps, his eyes brimming with curiosity and genuine concern. "How's Omar doing? I've been missing him. Is he getting better?"

A pang of guilt tugs at my heart as I meet Steve's gaze. It's clear that Omar's absence has left an impact on the young boy, who used to spend hours playing and laughing with my brother. I can sense the worry laced in his innocent inquiry, a reflection of his genuine care for Omar's well-being.