Love hates

A call from the hospital got Andrea anxious. She tried contacting Rachel but couldn’t get through. Finally, she decided to go to her dorm. After many times of knocking, Rachel opened the door with one hand on the phone. She’s laughing so happily. Andrea knew who was on the line with her, its Pete. She signalled Rachel to cut off the line. Rachel did as told. Giggling away, Rachel asked what happened. Rachel fell unconscious when Andrea broke the news. John is dead.

....He felt her presence as he touches the bench. He remembered those days when Rachel and he have long chats and laughter, teasing each other. Thinking about it, 7 years had past, those schooling days reminded him about his arrogance and low self esteem. It was Rachel who motivated him, through sadness and challenges he faced, supporting him always. “Don’t worry John; you’re able to make it through. I’ll always be here for you”, said Rachel in a comforting tone…

He wheeled himself towards the classroom. Still the same old painting, with extra spider webs on the top edges. The blackboard isn’t there anymore, replaced by whiteboard. Entering the class, the atmosphere is so quiet; he can hear his wheelchair tilting the motor blades. He then went around the class, a little disturbed expression on his face, as if he’s looking for something. He stopped just right there, next to the window, and he smiled as he reaches for the chair. They were engraftments, disrupted due to long usage of the chair. But it is still visible, the words; John hearts Rachel forever.

John wipes his tears away as he pushes himself out the classroom. He knows everything is gone. He misses those days when he and Rachel strive through teenage life and nothing beats the courage of care and love between them. Anthony came to aid him towards the car park. He frowns as he struggled to stand the sudden chest pain. Anthony immediately hand him the painkillers. He swallowed hard and breathed loudly. The pain reduced. Although only 24, John felt that he’s helpless.

Diagnosed with lung cancer terminal stage, he knew his days are ending soon. Severe hair loss made him look like an old man. The radiotherapy prolonged his lifespan, but it made him weaker day by day. ‘Why John? Why can’t you leave me alone? I have enough of you!’ these words left John into depression again. He had never thought of hurting Rachel, never thought of making her feeling agitated.

to be continued...