A Little Bit Stronger

Chapter Thirteen

   I rushed out the door of the station. Tears began to well up in my eyes at the idea of my mom. I didn't know what kind of shape she was in or exactly what had happened. To be frank, I was terrified to see her. I was afraid that she was angry with me for some reason and that this all was my fault. I needed to see her and know she was okay but at the same time I was more scared than I ever have been to face her.

     The car ride to the hospital was nearly silent. At some point the sun had risen and around me the day was beginning. I felt numb as the car pulled into the parking lot. Melody didn't even have time to fully stop the car before I was getting out. I took a deep breath and ran as fast as I could through the doors. Once I got inside I realized that I had no idea where to go so I was forced to wait until Melody and Officer Smith came in.

     After what felt like an eternity the duo walked in to the hospital. It was annoying to me that they were walking at such a leisurely pace when there was so much going on.  I was in the same building as my mother but it felt like we were miles apart again. I couldn't stand not knowing anything. Finally, Melody walked up to the front desk and started talking to the receptionist. 

    Melody came back over to where I was standing and gestured for me to follow her. Walking down the long hallway of the hospital felt like an eternity. Every step took all of the power I had in me. My head was spinning, my hands were clammy,and my legs felt like jello. I focused on my breathing and talked myself through each step. I didn't  realize how deep in thought I was until Melody tapped my shoulder.

     "I should warn you that your mom isn't in the best shape right now" She told me. "The doctors have her on some medication that's messing with her thought process. She may not seem normal to you." 

     "I don't care. I have to see her." I said pushing forward. We had finally reached her room. I took a deep breath, trying to bring myself to open the door. I felt a tear slip down my face but quickly wiped it away. I took a deep breath and opened the door.

     "Lacey! Help me!" My breath caught in my throat. I couldn't breath at all and I felt weak. I began to feel dizzy and reached for something, anything to grab onto. It was too late. 

     "Mom..." It was barely above a whisper. I'm not even sure if anyone other than me heard it. I don't remember saying anything else or hearing a response. Only a muffled scream that may have been mine as I hit the cold, hard floor. The world around me going black in an instant.