*Authors Note- This chapter contains some graphic details of self harm. Please skip over these parts if you will be offended or otherwise. If you are struggling with self harm please reach out and talk to someone.*
Hours passed and I hadn't left Steph's side. She was looking brighter every minute. All of her tests were coming back normal and we were all thrilled. My mom and dad brought Sophia to the hospital and Stan joined us. He looked like hell but he was so happy to see Steph awake. We all stayed until visiting hours were over. Mom and dad said I could stay with Steph. I decided to walk them out with Stan and give Stephanie and her parents some time together.
Stan and I held back behind my family talking softly. I apologized to him for not calling and promised I would call him once a day from now on. We made our way to the cars and Stan turned to me and looked me in the eyes.
"Carmen, I have planned the funeral for Tony. It's going to be this Sunday." He mumbled out words trying to hold himself together. "We will have the funeral at the cemetery where he will be buried next to his mother. I think that's where he would want to be."
"I think he would too. Stan, our family is always here for you. Don't hesitate to call or visit whenever. You'll always be my family." I hugged him.
He hugged back "There is one more thing I wanted to ask you. Would you speak at the service? I want you to."
"I..I'd be honored to." I couldn't believe what just came out of my mouth. I hated speeches but I felt like this was something I needed to do. I couldn't say no, Tony was my first love and one of my best friends. I know its only right if I spoke at his service.
Stan smiled and I knew he was happy I agreed to speak. He began getting into his car and paused "And no black. Tony refused to wear black at his mothers funeral, he never liked the idea of that. Tell your family and Stephanie's family?"
I nodded and watched him get into his car. I waved good bye and met with my family at the car. I told them of the plans and they too went home. I decided to drop by the cafeteria for a snack before heading back upstairs. The cafeteria at the hospital was closed after dinner, but they had a great selection of vending machines. I pulled quarters from my pockets and got a mini bag of pretzels and a candy bar. I sat and ate them enjoying the semi-dark, quiet cafeteria.
The sound of foot steps broke the silence and I turned to see Mark. He smiled at me while shoving a wrinkled dollar into the soda machine. He still gave me the chills, but I was too happy to let him ruin my day. He sat at the table with me and cracked open his soda.
"I heard about Stephanie the whole hospital is talking about it." he said. "I'm glad she is okay."
"Me too." I smiled.
"If you want to celebrate there's a party near here. It's a bon fire type thing there will be.."
"No thanks, I'm going to spend the night with Stephanie. Maybe some other time." I interrupted.
He nodded and we chatted for a few minutes before I headed back upstairs. As I talked to him he didn't seem so creepy, although I still don't think I'd trust to be alone with him in a private place. I took my time walking the stairs up to Steph's floor. I know her parents were also wanting to spend some time with her and everyone had crowded her through the day. She needed some rest and I wanted to make sure she'd get it. I finally made it to her floor and I noticed the nurses station was empty. Normally there are several nurses but I guess there weren't enough tonight.
Walking into Steph's room she was sleeping and looked so peaceful. She stayed awake for quite a long time today and I know her body was still recovering and needed the rest. Jackie and Ronald were also fast asleep. An empty cot waited for me but my mind was not quite ready to sleep. I pulled my phone from my bag and laid quietly on the cot. I flipped through photos letting sadness overflow the tears in my eyes. I missed Tony more than I had ever missed anything before.
