The FAFSA Bride. ||| on hold |||

Chapter 15: The Sickness

                Bryce and Michelle waiting in the lobby of hospital for their appointment. In all his life, Bryce had never felt so heartsick over anything. The thought of Michelle getting sick, of needing needles and drugs, and possibly worse, it made him physically ache. She was trying to be brave, but it was as if one word was circling in her mind all night. Cancer, cancer, cancer. She was haunted by the possibility of it all, and nothing was official yet. They had three minutes left, and Bryce couldn’t help but feel useless sitting there idly while his world was crashing down. He wasn’t sure when Michelle had become his world, but she his entire world. She was his family, and she was hurting. He was uselessly sitting.

“Can I get you some coffee?” Bryce asked her.

“Thank you,” Michelle whispered. “But my nerves are shot hell already.”

“Maybe some water,” Bryce said, kissing her forehead. If only kisses could heal.

“Sure, thank you Bryce.”

Bryce kissed her again and stood up, glad to help in any way possible. He felt like he had to do something. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw someone approaching Michelle. A tall blonde man in a suit approached Michelle, smiling widely at her. Bryce nearly felt a turn of jealousy, but he decided to see what was happening before he overreacted.

                Bryce returned with a cup of water and sat down in his seat, interjecting himself between the man and Michelle.

“Here you are, beautiful,” Bryce said. “Hello there, I am Bryce. I’m Michelle’s husband.”

He overemphasized the word husband.

“I am Dixon,” the man said. “I am here on behalf of Paul Silas.”

“How did dad even know,” Michelle asked. “And how predictable of him to send you. I mean, I love you Dixon, but you don’t send a PA when your daughter might have cancer.”

Did she just say ‘I love you’ to this guy, Bryce wondered.

“I told your father,” Bryce said, ignoring his insane jealousy. “I wanted him to support you. I know it’s a lost cause, but I was hoping he’d come through.”

“That’s so sweet,” Michelle said.

“Mr. Silas was very busy, but he wants you both to know he will cover any and all medical expenses if Michelle is sick.”

“Thanks, but I don’t need his charity,” Michelle scoffed.

                “Honey, take the offer,” Bryce said. “Your dad may not be able to show up or be a normal dad, but he’s reaching out to the only way he knows. I know it’s not enough, but he’s trying to show support.”

“I guess,” Michelle said. “And if I really have cancer, we’ll need coverage. God, what if I am really sick?”

“I am not sure,” Bryce said. “But I can guarantee you won’t be alone. I’m right here, ok?”

“Ok,” Michelle said, trying not to get upset.

“Well,” Dixon said, coughing slightly “I will be here to assist in any way.”

“How does a personal assistant help with having cancer,” Michelle snapped.

“You know, you don’t have to keep calling me a ‘personal assistant’,” Dixon said. “Once upon a time I was also your friend.”

“Was being the operative word,” Michelle said. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go.”

                “Michelle Silas,” The nurse called out. Bryce eyed Dixon, wondering what was going on between them.