Internet Scales (Patrick/Pete)

8

Patrick's POV

The next morning, I went into the kitchen and dad had made us both cornflakes and coffee. I sit down in my normal space.

"Morning dad"

"Hey Patrick. Sleep okay?"

"Yeah. The meds are working at least"
"Good" He says as he joins me at the table. We eat to the sound of the radio. I sip my coffee. It tasted bitter since dad had cut out most of the sugar in my diet. I usually had three.

"Pete's coming in three days. Can he stay with us?"
"Of course he can" He says, clearing the dishes up and putting them in the sink.

"You ready for a walk into town?" He tells me more than asks me. I get up and go to my room but half way down the hall, my chest gets tight and I have trouble breathing.
"Dad" I call out, slipping down the wall to sit on the ground. He comes around the corner and runs over to me, holding my head up.

"Look at me Patrick. Keep your head up." He reaches for the draw of the cabinet in the hall where my inhalers were kept. He takes off the cap and puts it in my mouth. He gives me three puffs and I cough badly. He gives me four more puffs and I sigh. My breathing slows and my chest loosens. My dad sits with me.
"Are you sure you'll be able to keep up with Pete when he comes over?" He asks me.

"I don't know" I tell him truthfully. Pete seemed to be a very hyper-active guy, he'd want to go lots of places.

"Just remember the state of your health and that you're not in good shape. Keep reminding him alright? How long is he here for, do you know?"

"A few weeks I think"

"Okay, you can have some days out but then I would advise you to have some at home days or go places where you can sit, like the cinema or something. I know it sounds like I'm trying to control your life but I'm trying to think what's best for your health. You're young, and i don't want to lose you and I'm sure you don't want to go back into hospital anytime soon." I shake my head. "We'll stay at home today and see what you're like tomorrow okay?"

"Yeah. Thanks dad"