With Michael

Chapter 81 - Getting Better

7th of July, 2009
Brooklyn and Janet are 43

Brooklyn: Tears streamed down my face as I looked at Michael's body inside the beautifully decorated casket.

I sat back in the hospital wheelchair and hoped to just go back already.

I've gotten really weak and fatigue during the four days I was at the hospital. My body was still not allowing anything in, so instead of gaining weight I was losing it. And fast.

The Forest Lawn Memorial Park was cleared out so we could have our private ceremony.

My doctor allowed me to go to the little ceremony, but then I had to go back to the hospital. I couldn't go to the memorial service, and honestly, I didn't really want to.

My family were going to say a few words for me, for the fans.

"Thank you, Mike," Jermaine sniffled. "For being such a supportive and loving brother."

He kissed Michael's forehead.

He then helped stand up and I looked at my husband's calm expression.

"I love you so much, Michael. I'm so sorry I left you alone." I whispered.

Jermaine shot me a look when he helped me back in my wheelchair.

The nurse that's been taking care of me, Tanya, pulled me back and adjusted the IV in my arm.

"I wish you could come with us, mommy." Paris said.

I reached a hand, caressing her hair. "I wish I could come, too, Princess. You're so beautiful, who picked that dress for you?"

"Auntie Rebbie did."

"Well, it fits you perfectly."

She smiled slightly and leaned down to hug me. But Tanya stopped her.

"You shouldn't do that, Paris. Your mother is very fragile right now."

"She can hug me." I rolled my eyes.

My daughter wrapped her arms around me ever so slightly.

"I want to hug mommy, too!" Blanket scoffed.

"Maybe next time, Blanket. We should take her back to the hospital." my dad said.

"Jason's gonna be with you the entire time, okay, babies?" I asked.

They kissed my cheeks, nodding.

"Brooklyn," Joseph walked over to us. "UCLA gave us Michael's belongings. I thought you probably wanted to keep this."

He searched in his jacket pocket, then took out Michael's silver wedding ring.

"Thank you, Joseph." I said.

"Of course. Get better soon, okay? And keep my grandson safe." I could tell he tried his best not to hug me too hard.

I sure hope I can.

Janet gave me a light squeeze as well before I was taken by Tanya and my dad to a car that waited to drive us back to Santa Ynez.

~

"It's starting, darling." Paul announced, turning on the TV.

Dad helped me sit up in bed and I glued my eyes to the screen.

My brothers-in-law carried Michael's casket to the center, in front of the audience.

There was a knock on the door, and Paul hurried to open it.