Like Father, Like Daughter

Chapter 24: From Bad to Worse

Janie's POV: 2016. I hope this will be a good year. We came back to L.A. We finalized dad's new album "Blackstar". I did a duet with him. Because I helped him with the chorus to "Lazarus", he wanted me to sing on it, so I did. I became very emotional during it. You can hear it in my voice. I got word that I'm nominated for 8 Grammys this year! And I'll be performing at the Super Bowl during the halftime show with Coldplay and Bruno Mars! I'm excited to sing with Bruno, not so much with Coldplay. I just hope dad makes it to them. He hasn't been doing well. He's been hospitalized since we finished the album. Tomorrow's his birthday. I just hope he makes it. He's been weak. He doesn't eat much, he talks quietly, it's devastating. I start my tour back up on the 11th, but I think I'm going to postpone dates, that way I can be with him. He went from bad to worse, so quickly. He has me sing to him. I haven't been able to make it past a song without crying. Maybe it helps him though. Maybe it makes him feel stronger and gives him a reason to live. I just want him to get better.
•
*The Next Day*
Janie's POV: Today's dad's birthday. He was allowed to go home today, but he's been bed bound. He made it to 69. His new album was released today. The bastard knocked "Hello" down to #2! He took my #1 spot! I still love him though, it's been years since he's had a #1 hit. We've managed to cross off everything on his bucket list, except for one thing: seeing me graduate. I managed to talk to the school principal, and she said we can hold a faux graduation at his bedside, because doctors don't think he'll make it to my real graduation, which kills me. Her mother is going through the same thing, so she happily agreed. There was a knock at the door as my mom gave dad her present. "Brb." I said. I ran to answer it. It was my principal. I ran to my room and put on my cap and gown. I stood outside my parent's door. "Close your eyes dad." I said. "They're closed." Mom said. I walked in with my principal. "Open." I said. He uncovered his eyes and smiled. We started the "ceremony". I got a fake diploma, and fake graduated. I sat next to my dad again and kissed his cheek. "Happy birthday." I said. "Thank you." He said quietly. I held his hand as a tear streamed down my face...