Where Have You Gone

Chapter 2️⃣9️⃣

### At the Hospital

The atmosphere in the doctor's office was thick with quiet anticipation as Irin and Richie sat side by side, their hands clasped tightly together. The room was filled with the faint scent of antiseptic and the soft hum of fluorescent lights above them. They had been waiting for this day for what felt like an eternity, and as loving parents, each minute felt like a lifetime while they observed the toll their daughter’s health had taken on their family.

Their hearts were heavy with the memories of little Anne, born prematurely and whisked away to the ICU for what felt like an endless two months. The staggering news of her congenital heart defect had shattered the fragile peace they once knew, leaving a persistent ache of worry that clouded their everyday lives.

Fortunately, they had found strength in their circle of family and friends especially Becky, who supported them during those trying times. They vividly recalled the turbulent days following Anne’s first surgery, a haze of anxiety and hope as they watched their fragile baby struggle to recover. Each flutter of her little heart was a reminder of their fragile hope for a better future.

As the years had gone by, they could see the toll that Anne’s health had taken on her. She had always appeared thin and frail, but with Becky’s extraordinary care over the past two years, a transformation had begun. Irin and Richie felt an overwhelming gratitude toward Becky, who, despite her own visual impairment, had delved into the role of caretaker with a tender ferocity that made Anne flourish. Under her watchful eye, Anne began to gain weight and develop in ways that filled Irin and Richie with joy. If one were to see them together, they would surely think Anne was Becky’s daughter, so closely did she mirror her caretaker in disposition and spirit.

The quiet moment in the office was suddenly interrupted by the soft click of the door opening. Irin and Richie exchanged a glance, knowing that the moment they had been waiting for was finally here. They stood in unison, ready to meet Dr. Faye, who greeted them with a warm smile as she took her seat.

“Please, sit down, guys. No formalities,” Dr. Faye said, her eyes sparkling with sincerity. It was her first encounter with Anne two years prior that had initiated this long journey, and since then, she had stepped into the role of Head of the Department of Cardiology with grace and determination, overseeing Anne's care with unwavering dedication.

“Irin, Richie, I reviewed Anne's reports first thing this morning. Everything looks good,” she began, her tone a mix of confidence and reassurance. “I think it’s time for the final surgery. Given Anne’s age and her medically complex condition, her recovery might vary, but I believe she has a strong chance.”

A wave of relief washed over Irin and Richie at the encouraging news, yet a familiar sense of apprehension began to creep back in, echoing the fears that had haunted them since Anne's birth.

Sensing their unease, Dr. Faye leaned in slightly, her expression softening. “I completely understand what you’re going through. There are two more important things I need to share with you. The CEO’s daughter returned to the city this morning. Starting tomorrow, she will be taking charge of this hospital. She has just completed her master’s in cardiac surgery and has been practicing in France. She will be the one performing the surgery. She’s one of the finest doctors specializing in robotic surgery in our country.”

The words shocked Irin and Richie, their minds racing to process the implications. They had always trusted the care provided at this hospital and were grateful for the support they had received over the years.

Richie’s brow furrowed in confusion. “But Dr. Faye, I thought the CEO didn’t have any children since he doesn’t have any with his wife, right?” he asked, trying to make sense of the extraordinary turn of events.

“It’s a bit complicated, Richie; let’s leave it at that,” Dr. Faye replied, her gaze turning serious for a brief moment. “I hope to see you tomorrow at 10 a.m.,” she added, signaling to her assistant to arrange the appointment.

“To which doctor should I book the appointment?” her assistant inquired, flipping through the schedule.

“Book the appointment for Dr. Freen Chankimha at 10 a.m. tomorrow,” Dr. Faye instructed without hesitation, ensuring everything was in place before turning her attention back to the couple.

“So, I’ll see you both tomorrow. By the way, please bring Becky with you. It’s been a while since I last saw her,” Dr. Faye said with a warm smile, lightening the atmosphere with her genuine fondness.

“Sure,” Irin and Richie replied in unison, leaving the office buoyed by a renewed sense of hope and joy. The weight of their worry seemed a little lighter as they stepped out of the office, ready to face the challenges ahead with courage and optimism.

Thank you