The Darkest Hour

Is it catching?

He looked even thinner in Dad's clothes, which were huge and baggy on him. She could see his eyes flickering nervously as he sat alone on their huge leather sofa, his hands twisting endlessly. He didn't look well at all- his face was pale, and there were small beads of sweat gathering on his forehead.

Dad had been interrogating him for 20 minutes already, and Mum was upstairs making up a bed, so no one was here to stop him.

'So, Zeb. I'm curious- how does one end up homeless at the age of 18?'

Ruby cringed. Even the way Dad said his name was awful, like he'd tasted something unpleasant. She could only imagine what his reaction would be if he knew Zeb was a former druggie and a thief. But the only reason he was being so rude to their guest was that he was homeless, and that made Ruby feel sick to her stomach.

It occurred to her that perhaps she was making a mistake keeping her knowledge of Zeb's past hidden, but then she remembered what she'd said earlier- he'd had plenty of chances to harm her, if that was what he'd intended to do, but instead, he'd chosen to look out for her safety.

Zeb opened and closed his mouth several times, as if he wasn't sure what to say. Although the house was warm, he was noticeably shivering.

'I was living with my grandma,' he  answered, finally, 'she passed away, and I couldn't afford the rent.'

Surely Dad would leave him alone now! She knew her heart was aching for Zeb. But Dad's voice was just as cold as he began to question Zeb further.

'Oh, really? And how have you been supporting yourself since then? With no job, it must have been very difficult.'

Sarcasm dripped from every word, and Ruby held her breath for a moment. Would Zeb reveal the things he'd told her? If so, she knew Dad would send him packing. Zeb had been so open with her about it, maybe he really would. She'd never forgive herself if he ended up back on the streets tonight. For the second time tonight, Ruby interrupted her dad before Zeb could reply.

'Please, can't you see he needs to rest? Dad, he's sick.'

Zeb met her eyes gratefully, and Dad glared at him.

'I can see that,' he snapped, 'I hope it isn't catching.'

Zeb broke into yet another coughing fit, and Dad rolled his eyes as he stalked crossly from the room. Ruby was mortified.

'I'm so sorry about him, Zeb,' she apologised.

He shook his head.

'No worries...' he trailed off, his face rapidly turning white. Ruby felt herself begin to freak out. This was not good. He looked dreadful.

'Are you OK?' She asked, knowing full well what a stupid question it was, considering the guy in front of her was deathly pale and almost hyperventilating. His eyelids fluttered closed and he didn't respond, so she jumped up, placing her hand on his shoulder and shaking it gently.

'Zeb? Can you hear me?'

'What's happening? Is he OK?' Mum's voice was shrill and panicked as she rushed into the room.

'I don't know, he just went like this all of a sudden!'

Her own stress was rising in response to Mum's horrified face, even though she knew it didn't take much to send the woman into full panic mode.

Zeb had now slumped back into the seat, and she continued to shake his shoulder, more vigorously now, repeating his name over and over.

'Ruby, I think we should call an ambulance. He's unconscious-'