When He Saved Me

t h i r t y - f o u r

------ Ashers Pov -----

The sun streamed through the curtains, bathing the room in a soft glow. I blinked a few times, adjusting to the light, and noticed Madison sleeping peacefully on my chest.

I recalled my dad's call last night—his shaky voice filled with urgency that unsettled me. He sounded vulnerable, unlike the man I remembered.

As I shifted slightly, careful not to disturb Madison, a knot tightened in my stomach. I had to face my dad. I didn't know what I'd say, but I couldn't keep pushing it away any longer.

Madison stirred, blinking against the sunlight. She looked up at me, concern etched on her face. "Morning," she murmured, her voice thick with sleep.

"Morning," I replied softly, trying to mask my tension. "Did you sleep okay?"

"Yeah," she said, sitting up slightly. "But you seem upset. What's going on?"

I hesitated, the weight of my thoughts threatening to spill out. "I'm still thinking about my conversation with my dad."

She nodded, her expression shifting to one of concern. "And what are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking about going to see him, Mads. This might be my only chance." My heart raced at the vulnerability of admitting it.

"Oh, Asher," she said softly, her gaze searching mine.

I took a deep breath, feeling the storm of emotions swirl inside me. "I think I'm going to call him today and ask him when I can come."

Madison's expression softened, and she reached for my hand, her touch grounding me. "Are you sure this is what you want?"

"I have to," I replied, anger and sadness bubbling up. "I can't keep avoiding him. I need to understand what's happening. I need to hear him out."

"Do you want me to come with you?" she asked, her voice gentle but hesitant.

I looked at her, appreciating her offer but unsure. "I don't know yet. I just... I need to think about it."

She nodded, her gaze steady and comforting. "You've got this, Asher. I'm here for you, no matter what you choose."

"Thanks you Mads." 

"Always," she said, leaning in for a soft kiss.

After a moment, I reluctantly pulled away, needing to prepare myself for what lay ahead. "I should get ready. I need to figure out what I'm going to say."

Once dressed, I took a moment to gather my thoughts, my heart racing at the prospect of what I was about to do. I pulled out my phone, fingers hovering over the screen as I searched for my dad's number. Each ring felt like an eternity, anticipation clawing at my insides.

When he finally picked up, his voice sounded raspy and worn. "Asher?"

"Yeah, it's me," I replied, trying to keep my tone steady despite the rush of emotions. "I... I was thinking about what you said yesterday, and I've decided I will come see you."

There was a pause, and I could hear him take a shaky breath. "Oh, Asher, really? That would be great. I've missed you."

"When can I come?" I asked, the words feeling heavy, ignoring his sentiment.

He hesitated again, and I could sense the weight of his condition in the silence. "How about today? If you can make it, I'd love to see you."

"Okay, I can do that," I said, determination bubbling up inside me. "What time should I come over?"

"Anytime works for me. Just... be careful on the way. It's a bit of a drive for you youre still in New York?

"Yes." I respond curtly. He's never even seen my place or met my friends.