Chenford family

Dad to the rescue

The morning had started out just like any other for Eliana. Another day at middle school. She felt confident in her light blue jeans and cute top, enjoying the cooler summer breeze. But by mid-morning, a sharp, gnawing pain began to spread across her stomach. She ignored it at first, thinking it was nothing. It wasn't until she went to the bathroom and saw the blood—too much blood, staining her jeans—that her heart sank.

Eliana- (panicked, whispering to herself) Oh my gosh, no, no, nooo.

Her mind raced, and for a moment, she didn't know what to do. She took a deep breath, trying to keep calm, and grabbed her phone. There was only one person she could call—Alexander.

Eliana- (urgently) Alex, I need you. Please. Can you meet me by the bathrooms in the second floor?

Alexander didn't ask many questions; he just said he'd be right there. A few minutes later, he appeared with a concerned look on his face.

Eliana- Do you have any clothes in can borrow?

Alexander- (holding out his hoodie) This is all I've got. What's going on?

Eliana didn't answer, just grabbed the oversized hoodie and put it on, to cover the stain. Tying it around her waist would look ridiculous she thought, tough the way too big hoodie on her looked ridiculous too.

Eliana- (quickly) Thanks. I'll explain later.

She made her way to the nurse's office, her heart pounding. The nurse greeted her kindly but started asking question after question.

Nurse- (concerned) What's wrong, honey? Do you feel faint? Feverish? Let me take your temperature.

Eliana- (frustrated) No, I just need to go home. Please.

After some back and forth, the nurse finally agreed to call her parents. Unfortunately, Lucy didn't answer. The nurse then called Tim.

Tim- (picking up immediately) Hello?

Nurse- (explaining) Mr. Bradford, this is the school nurse. Eliana isn't feeling well and asked to be picked up.

Tim didn't hesitate.

Tim- I'm on my way.

By the time Tim arrived, he could tell something was off. Eliana was sitting stiffly in a chair, avoiding eye contact. The nurse gave him a rundown, but Tim could tell the real issue wasn't being shared.

Tim- (softly) Ready to go, kiddo?

Eliana nodded and followed him out, her head low.

As they walked to the car, Tim tried again.

Tim- So... what's going on? You don't look sick.

Eliana- (quietly) Where's Mom?

Tim- She's on a mission. But I'm here, and I need to know what's wrong so I can help.

Eliana hesitated, fiddling with her hands.

Tim- (gently) Eliana, you're not in trouble. I just want to make sure you're okay. Plus I have to explain to mom, why I signed you out of school and, you know, having an actual reason, no matter how big or small it is, gets me out of trouble with her.

Finally, she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper.

Eliana- (shaky) I got my... my period. And it's really bad. My pants got stained, and the cramps... it hurt so much.

Her words came out in a rush, and by the time she finished, tears were streaming down her face. Tim's heart sank. He wished Lucy were there, but he pulled Eliana into a hug.