“Welcome to Applebee's. How many is in your party?” The host asked sweetly.
“Four.” Ashley said before they were led to their booth. “Thank you.”
“You're welcome, Ashley.” The hostess said absently. “May I get you all something to drink?”
“Dr Pepper.” Jade said.
“Virgin Daiquiri.” Kris said softly
“Coke.” CC spoke.
“I'll have a...mountain dew.” Ashley said finally.
“I'll let your server know.” The girl said before turning around and going to the bar, giggling.
Kristin shook her head a little as she looked at the menu. When their server came by, he wasn't shocked at who was there and acted like there were no celebrities at the table. “Do you need some more time or do you all know what you'd like to eat?” Everyone gave their order and menus to the man. “Thank you, your orders will be right out.”
As they waited for their food, small chit-chat was made. On their way out to the Harley's, Kris's phone went off. “Hello? It was Mark's voice on the other end. “Daddy, what's wrong?” She asked in a weak, scared voice.
“It's Roger.” Mark's voice broke over the phone. “He's got pneumonia...they don't know if he's going to make it.”
“H-how long?” She trembled.
“We're not sure. I know you're busy, but he's asking for you to be here too.”
Kristin nodded without thinking as tears ran down her face. “I'll be there. What...what are the docs doing?”
“Not too much...” Mark said sadly. “I'll see you soon, Kristin.”
Kristin hung up her phone and immediately held onto CC, sobbing. She could barely speak, let alone stand. “He's...he's dying.” She sobbed.
“Who, Koala?” CC asked softly as Ashley and Jade stood on either side of her. She just shook her head. “Your dad?” He asked and another head shake. “Roger?” At that, Kristin nodded nodded.
Kristin looked up finally. “I'm so sorry, I have to go back to New York.” She whispered.
“Don't be sorry, Koala. I just wish I could go with you.” CC tightened his hold on her.
“Do you want someone to go with you?” Jade asked.
“No...I'll be okay.” Kris said absently. She got a text telling her to let Joann know when she booked the flight. “I may have my phone off for a while after I land.” She let go of CC long enough to get onto the bike and grabbed her glasses; she didn't want to deal with the helmet again.
Once at the bus, Kristin grabbed some of her things and booked her flight. She was glad CC wasn't leaving her side yet and as her flight was called for boarding, she hugged him goodbye. “Be safe.” He kissed her gently and in those few seconds, she felt as if everything would be okay.
“Always.” She whispered and boarded her plane. Her head was spinning and the thought of that goodbye kiss made her smile.
- In New York -
Kristin ran through the halls until she finally got to Roger's bedside. It was taking everything in her in her to not cry as she grabbed hold of his hand. “Roger?” She whispered.
He turned his head slightly and opened his eyes. “Hey, rock star.” He tried to smile before coughing. “You didn't have to come...I know..” He coughed hard enough that his body shook. Kristin helped him sit up and handed him the cup of water that was sitting on the table next to his bed.
