Chapter 56 - Mother (2/2)

”He will feel better when he is sober. Drinking at his age under these consequences is not good for him,” Grant pulled dad in his arms. His movement, graceful and yet full of strength. Dad was a big man still Grant held him like a princess. ”He should take better care of his health and his family,” said Grant. Thomas nodded and turned to me.

”I'm sorry Liliane,” I wiped the dried tears on my cheeks.

”I don't think I can forgive anyone of you...yet,” my eyes rested on mom's tired face.

”I only wanted to see you again...one last time,” she voice trailed off. Thomas opened the door wider to let Grant carry dad out of the room. I was ready to follow them.

”Liliane?” mom's voice was faint. I gave a quick glance over my shoulder. She extended a trembling hand towards me. The sight tore at my heart. Even if my mind resisted my feet dragged me to her bedside. I found my hand seizing hers.

”My sweet child, I hope you can find peace,” she gave me a smile full of love. It broke my heart to see her so frail lying in this bed. Her skin was cold. Tears welled up my eyes.

”Mom, I've waited every day for you to come to save me from that horrible place... every day. But you didn't come. You left me. You abandon me. I can't forgive you,” my voice came out like a squeal. Still, she smiled sweetly at my outburst.

”I'm not asking for your forgiveness,” her trembling hand wiped the tears dripping on my face. ”Please, don't cry. For once, I want you to smile for me,” I shook my head pulling away from her.

”I can't! I can't give you what you want. I'm sorry,” more tears streamed down.

-Liliane, what's happening? Your levels are all messed up. I'm dropping your dad in the living room then I'll be right back.

”It's ok, I was happy to see that you are healthy and in good company. I guess I've missed a lot. What was his name?” she chuckled but end up in a fit of violent coughs. I stared down at her unable to react.

”His name is Grant,” I added in a flat tone.

”Is it true...”

”He is an artificial, yes. I am too broken. I can't love like a normal person,” she nodded her smile fading.

”Does that mean you don't love him? Cause he sure acts like he cares a lot about you,” she commented. That was none of her business. I frowned at her. I wasn't sure I wanted to answer her question. I wasn't sure I had a proper answer.

”I can't live without him... without them. I don't know if it's love or something else. All I know is I'm safe with them, the restless nights are gone. The dark clouds hanging over me are slowly dispersing,” my voice came out bored and didn't convey the boiling emotions building within me.

”That's good enough, right?” I slowly nodded. Somehow, it was the longest conversation I ever had with mom. And it had to be on her death bed. A gush of sob bubbled up my throat. The emotions I've tried to shove down erupted rocking my body. I felt warm arms wrapped around me as I sunk into his embrace.

”Shh, it's ok. I'm here,” whispered Grant against my hair.

-I'm here too. Sorry for being so silent.