An Act Of Kindness

II

29.10.2014

Whispers.

That was all I heard as I lay with my eyes closed, surrounded by my family.

My so called family.

I had come to realise that they no longer cared for me.

They would always come at the same time and only stay for ten minutes.

Fifteen if it was my lucky day.

And as soon as I made the attempt to open my eyes, they'd rush out of my room;

As if they were trying to avoid me;

As if the only reason they came was to look supportive.

The familiar smell of her soft vanilla perfume filled the air as the door opened.

I was tempted to open my eyes to see the girl who had been so kind to me.

More kind than anyone from my family had ever been.

But I kept my eyes closed because I knew that there were only three minutes left until my family would leave—

"Two minutes," I heard my mother whisper.

I sighed internally.

Today was not a lucky day after all.

But I didn't mind.

For the first time, I had something to look forward to after they left.

Or should I say someone?

"Alice can I see you for a moment?" the voice of someone outside called.

A few shuffles later, her distinct scent disappeared.

I felt my insides fold in slightly in sadness.

I truly hoped that she would be able to return.

The feeling of something soft, most likely lips, touching my forehead caused me to open my eyes, curious to see who it was.

To my disappointment, it was my mother.

I never thought the day would come when I wouldn't be happy at the sight of my mother.

"Oh I'm sorry sweetie but we have to go now."

I could tell that her sad smile was forced.

I looked back at her expressionless.

After they said their goodbyes, they left.

I sighed in relief.

"I'm glad you're awake Leo," it was her voice.

I felt my lips turn into a smile as she adjusted the cap on my head.

"Everything going well for you?" she asked me, pulling a chair closer to my bed and taking a seat.

"Yeah."

I didn't know what else to say.

Just her presence was enough to surround my heart with happiness.

But I knew I couldn't do anything to pay her back for what she had done for me.