Stars in Your Eyes | AnunKamol

Chapter 13: Beside You

Dani guided Lila through the hospital corridors, their footsteps echoing softly against the tiled floors. Lila clutched the bouquet of flowers and the bag of snacks tightly, her heart heavy with anticipation and unease. The familiar scents and sounds of the hospital stirred both comforting and painful memories within her.

As they walked, Lila sensed they were walking farther than usual. Her steps slowed, and she finally stopped, a knot forming in her stomach. Dani turned to her, concern evident in her voice.

"Lila, are you okay?" Dani asked gently, her tone filled with empathy.

Lila hesitated, her mind racing. "Where are we going, Dani? Is Anna in her room?"

Dani paused, then gently squeezed Lila's hand. "Yes, Lila. Anna is in a room here at the hospital."

Lila's heart sank. She had hoped to visit Anna in a more familiar setting, perhaps a room where they could sit and chat comfortably, not in a place like this.

"Palliative care," Dani added softly.

Lila's breath caught in her throat. She knew what palliative care meant—a place for those who were seriously ill, often nearing the end of life. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she struggled to process the news about Anna.

"I... I didn't know," Lila whispered, her voice trembling. "I thought she was just resting."

Dani nodded, her voice gentle. "Anna wants to see you just as much, let's keep going shall we?"

Lila took a deep breath, "Let's go," she said softly, her voice wavering but resolute.

They continued down the corridor, Dani guiding Lila with steady reassurance. Finally, they reached Anna's room - Dani knocked gently before pushing it open.

Inside, the room was quiet except for the soft hum of medical equipment. Lila heard the sound of Anna's breathing, steady yet weak. She approached Anna's bedside, Dani placing the flowers and snacks on the bedside table, Lila tried to hold back her tears.

Dani gently squeezed Lila's shoulder before stepping out of the hospital room, leaving Anna and Lila alone. The soft click of the door closing echoed in the quiet room, leaving Anna and Lila in a world of their own.

"Hey, Lila," Anna greeted softly, her voice filled with warmth and tenderness.

Lila remained silent for a moment, overwhelmed with emotions. She felt Anna's gentle touch as she took Lila's hand, tracing small circles on her palm, a gesture that always brought comfort.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner," Anna began, her voice tinged with regret. "I didn't want to worry you."

Lila nodded slowly, tears welling up in her eyes. "I understand, Anna. I just... I wish I could have been here for you."

Anna smiled weakly, a hint of her usual humour creeping in. "You're here now, that's what matters. And hey, at least they have decent food here, right?"

Lila couldn't help but chuckle softly through her tears, touched by Anna's attempt to lighten the mood even in such a difficult situation. "You always find a way to make me smile," she admitted.

Anna squeezed Lila's hand gently. "That's what friends are for, right? To share the good times and the bad."

'Friends.... Yes Friends...' Lila thought inside.

They spent the next hour talking softly, sharing memories and thoughts that had been left unspoken. Anna recounted stories from their outings together, her voice filled with nostalgia and love. Lila listened intently, holding onto each word as if trying to capture every moment in her heart.

As visitation hours drew to a close, Anna grew quiet, her energy waning. Lila could sense the weight of their conversation, the unspoken words hanging in the air. She leaned closer to Anna, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.

"I'm so glad I came, Anna," Lila whispered, her voice barely audible.

Anna smiled faintly, her eyes closing briefly. "Me too, Lila. Thank you for being here."

With a heavy heart, Lila reluctantly let go of Anna's hand, knowing it was time to leave. She stood by Anna's bedside for a moment longer, before grabbing her walking cane.

"I'll see you soon, Anna," Lila promised softly, her voice filled with love.

Anna nodded weakly, her gaze lingering on Lila. "Take care of yourself, Lila."

Lila nodded, blinking back tears. "You too, Anna."

With one last deep breath, Lila turned away, her heart heavy with sorrow yet grateful for the precious time they had shared. Outside the room, Dani was waiting, her presence offering silent support.

"Ready to go?" Dani asked gently, guiding Lila out of the hospital.

Lila nodded, leaning on Dani for support as they walked down the corridor. She couldn't shake the feeling of sadness and loss.

As they stepped out into the cool evening air, Lila took a deep breath, holding onto the memories of her visit with Anna.

"I'll drive you home, Lila," Dani offered quietly, sensing Lila's need for comfort.

Lila nodded gratefully, knowing that Anna's strength and kindness would always be a guiding light in her life, no matter what the future held.