Final Breath

One

A few hours later

Dad sniffles for the millionth time as he unlocks the car doors. Neither of us say a word as he starts the car and pulls out of the parking lot of the doctor's office.
Just as I figure, I have another brain tumor. Only this particular time, surgery won't help, and neither will chemo or radiation. The only good thing about it is that I can still properly function, and I don't need any extra assistance with anything. I'm still going to die, anyway.
The doctor only gave me an estimate of six months to live. Six months of having everyone coddle me and make me feel like crap when I'm supposed to be enjoying what's left of my life like I plan to. Six months of having to hide my secret from my younger brother Tyson, who pretty much worships the ground I walk on for whatever reason.
Tyson's only ten years old but he never fails to make me feel like he's my age as well. He's not as energetic as other ten year olds, and he's not into ten year-old stuff. He reminds me of, well, me.
Dad doesn't want me to tell Tyson what's going to happen to me. He doesn't think Tyson will handle the news well. I have to agree, even though Dad's not taking the news well himself.
I have to make sure that both Dad and Tyson are okay with me passing away before I actually do.

Thankfully, Tyson's staying at one of his friend's house for a few days, so he's not home when Dad and I show up. I take my time walking up the stairs to my room while Dad goes into the living room, his area for private prayer. I already know he's going to call Pastor Lynn and her husband to come over and pray for me, too. I don't mind at all. While I've already accepted my fate, I can never have too much prayer.
I stop at the door to Tyson's room and slowly push it open. The smells of butterscotch candy hit my nostrils, making me even more relaxed. I sit on his bed and say a silent prayer to God, for allowing me to live as long as He allowed me to. It's only when my phone vibrates in my pocket that I remember where I am and go to my own room to see who wants my attention.