Games Of Hearts

34. Joshua's Wrath

My mom and dad arrived at the hospital, their faces filled with concern and love. They were finally able to transfer me to a hospital closer to our house, but all the treatments would still take place here.

As we hugged, my mom patted my head and asked, "Where is that guy? You know, the one you've been talking about?"

I hesitated, unsure of how they would react to Joshua. "He went to freshen up," I replied, trying to sound casual.

My mom raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Joshua, right? You've told us so much about him."

I nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. What would they think of him? Would they approve?

Just then, Joshua walked back into the hospital room, a warm smile on his face and a tiffin box in his hands. All eyes were on him, and he seemed to sense it.

"Hi, David," he said, extending his hand to my dad.

My dad's expression was neutral, but I could sense a hint of curiosity. "Is this the guy you're dating?" he asked, turning to me.

Joshua's eyes met mine, and he smiled knowingly. "I guess I am," he said, his voice filled with confidence.

The room fell silent, with all eyes on us. My heart raced, waiting for my parents' reaction.

"You guys already know each other?" I asked, my voice laced with surprise, as I looked back and forth between my dad and Joshua.

They both nodded in unison, and my dad's face broke into a wide grin. He opened his arms and enveloped Joshua in a warm bear hug.

"His car got punctured and I helped him," my dad chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mirth. "And he even remembers my name, which is more than I can say for myself!" He burst into hysterical laughter, his body shaking with amusement.

Joshua joined in, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. "Your dad's a great guy," he said, clapping my dad on the back. "I can never forget a good person!"

I watched, stunned, as my dad and Joshua laughed together like old friends. The tension in the room dissipated, replaced by a sense of warmth and camaraderie.

My mom smiled, her eyes shining with tears. "I'm so glad you two have met again," she said, her voice filled with emotion.

As they pulled back from their hug, my dad clapped Joshua on the back again. "I'm glad my daughter's in good hands," he said, his voice filled with approval.

Joshua smiled, his eyes meeting mine, and I felt a surge of love and gratitude towards him. Maybe, just maybe, everything was going to be okay.

As my mom and dad stepped out to confer with the doctors, Joshua lingered behind, his eyes fixed on me with tender concern. The hospital room, with its sterile scent and beeping machines, faded into the background as we shared a moment of quiet intimacy.

"What did you bring?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, as I gazed up at Joshua with gratitude.

Joshua's face lit up with a warm smile as he revealed the tiffin box he had been hiding behind his back. "Your favorite cheese toast sandwiches," he announced, his eyes sparkling with affection.

My heart swelled with emotion as he opened the box, releasing the savory aroma of toasted bread and melted cheese. He handed me two perfectly crafted sandwiches, and I took a small bite, closing my eyes to savor the familiar flavors.

Joshua's eyes never left mine as he tried to feed me more, but I gently declined, my hand on my stomach. "I'm not supposed to eat too much," I whispered, my voice weak but determined.