Part 13

My mom is ill. She asks to see you. This is my number 01x-xxxxxxx

–Ben–

Elisa read and reread the simple note in her hands. Apparently Ben came to the hospital and asked to see her. She was sending a patient to a radiotherapy centre and was away. She’d toyed with the idea of calling Ben’s sister, but she hadn’t done that since the day she left.

Truth be told, she was reluctant. She feared that if she keeps in touch with her, she might never get over Ben. She might always want to ask about Ben. And, worse of all, she might hear news about Ben – Heartbreaking news. She didn’t think she could do it, at least not now when her hart still felt so raw.

Ali sat in front of her, holding a mug of hot cocoa.

“OK, you’ve stared at your food long enough. When are you going to eat?” Ali’s voice broke her out her reverie.

“Ben’s mom is ill,” she said simply. “She wants to see me,” she handed him the note in her hands and shrugged. “I don’t know what to do,”

Ali read the note and carefully placed it on the table. He loved this girl in front of him so much, despite knowing her for slightly more than three months. She’s a beautiful girl, inside and out. She’s generous, caring, loving and she was broken. He can’t help but to hate the man that was the cause of her tears, and worries.

He wished he could help her mend her heart, but she made it clear that she’s not ready yet. He’d had to settle with her friendship. Lately he’s been seeing progress. She was smiling, occasionally laughing and she seemed to be much improved. Seeing her like this, in yet another dilemma was paining him.

“I think you should go. She was never nasty to you, and well, you don’t want to live in regrets if you don’t go,” he said, reluctantly but it was an honest opinion.

She seemed to be considering his opinions seriously.

“I’ll think about it,” she said finally. “Thanks Ali. You’re a great pal,” she said, trying to smile but ended up grimacing.

“You know you can count on me. Now eat. Your patients are waiting,” he said, finishing his drinks and left the pantry.

After toying with her food for another minute or two, Elisa took out her hand phone and dialled before she lost her courage. It was now or never.

A few rings later and the other person picked up. With trembling voice, Elisa spoke “Hi, Ben, it’s me, Elisa.”

To be continued...