A Melody of You: Book Five

Cristina

Leanne always seems to be struggling. If it isn't her health, then it's work. If it isn't her stressful work then it's her family.

She hasn't been the only one struggling. I have not seen much of Andrew because of a problem with Jordan's family and Danny. One night when he made dinner for me at his place, he ranted about it. He hates ranting, but that night he nearly exploded. I quietly listened and felt his pain. I'm not the best at comforting with words, but I tried to help relieve his stress with kisses and soft touches. He seemed to have felt better after that.

Then I had my listening session with Leanne soon after. I knew something was wrong when I saw her sleeping in the resting area for medical staff. She must have been in the hospital for nearly four days straight. I tried to ask her if she was alright and she kept pushing me away. I knew she would eventually open up when she was ready. Besides, I was busy with my own work and students.

Ironically, life has been looking better for me. I've never been happier at my job after I'm done with the Jordan incident. Even little Jacob seems to be getting better faster than expected. I really need to get ready for that soccer game.

After stepping out of the gym with my sister one morning, I get a call from Leanne. Very random time in the morning. I was a little worried since she is not a morning person, but it seemed like she was out on a run. That was the day we met up to chat and she finally opened up about what happened at home.

She looked down in shame and clicked her tongue. "Why am I like this, Cristina? I hate myself sometimes."

"Hey," I quickly said. "Don't say that. We are all human and we hurt each other. But you've always had such a good relationship with your family. Don't let that go. I'm not saying you made a mistake though. It's good that you express how you feel once in a while." She let out a sad sigh and I did a small chuckle. "You always solve these problems, Anne. You are always such a good daughter and your mother knows that. Try to go back home."

She shook her head. "I can't yet. I have a reunion tomorrow."

"Oh? What reunion? Another high school reunion?"

"No," she said with a lighter expression. "A college one. Sarah Snow texted in the group chat after so many years and asked to meet up. It's not too far away. Just an hour away."

"Snearah Snow?!" I playfully said and I knew this would make her giggle.

I really hoped she had a good time there. That night, I spent time with my family and Andrew. They finally met him and I had relief as my father laughed and chatted with him. My family really liked him and were impressed by him. I am, too, every time I hold his hand.

I have to admit that I am so curious about what happened at the reunion though. I texted Leanne that night to make sure she got back safely and she responded very dryly. Something happened and I was intrigued. I hope it wasn't anything bad. The poor dear has gone through so much mental strain this whole week.

I bump into Dr. Kim as I wait for Leanne and her nurse friend, Taylor, to get lunch. He gives me a warm smile and a little wave. I return it and say, "Hello, Dr. Kim! It's nice to see you again. How was Korea?"

"It's nice to see you, too, Dr. Wong," he says with that sparkle in his eyes from his grin. "It was good. It's always so good to go back and see my mother. However, I was there for some business inquiries."

"It's impressive how you manage life here and your clinic in another country at the same time, Dr. Kim."

He does a warm chuckle and shakes his head. "It's not just me. I have an excellent team in that clinic that keeps it afloat. And please, you can just call me Yujun or by my English name."