Chapter Text
<2nd November 2014> <Sunday> <12:00pm>
Multiple visitors step in into Mari's room
“Hi! Everyone!” Mari said and saw everyone coming and gathering around in her room, her mom and dad were to first to arrive, seconds were Hero and her friends and lastly surprisingly were Kel and Hero’s Mom and Dad (Philp and Sarah) .
They all happily greeted back at Mari saying their greeting and the once cold quiet room turn a bit warmer and more lively. Mari’s mother (Scarlet) brought some clothes and a comfy chicken soup into her room for Mari’s stay in the hospital. Scarlet set up a Letting she taste someone that will make any sicky people feel better afterwards.
Mostly Mari and her parents along with Sarah and Phil Sarah started to chat away asking how is she and other stuffs that worrywarts tend to ask while Hero and others just seated aside at the back of the room waiting for the needless worry chatters to be done with. Mari also told them the news of her release which will be soon and a delight to everyone in the room.
“Oh that great! But If you want some more day to rest, feel free to ask OK? don’t push yourself too hard…” her mother Scarlet said happily but still worrying about her health.
“I am feeling like my usual self. Mom, just feeling stiff all around.” Mari said.
“Oh… if you say so dear.”
“Alright!!!, Great to see you nice and dandy.” Philip said.
“you had us really worried for these past few days.” Sarah reassured to heard that Mari is doing better.
“Speaking of which, How’s Sunny.” Mari ask again eager to get some answer while the question stunned everyone in the room all their face sudden shifted didn’t not yet to respond.
Mari see everyone sort of stand in silence for few seconds, Mari chuckle a bit at their reaction. “ HEY! Didn’t the doctor told you? It’s alright now, the doctor even give me permission to visit him, I wouldn’t fainted away like yesterday!
“oh…, We have not taken a look at Sunny yet, but from when the accident happen I would said that he is ok…ish ” Philip said not confidently, Hero elbow nudge his father for a bit while Mari didn’t seem to mind what Philip said.
Basil open his mouth and speaks” Sunny is still recovering but not as fast as you. The injury is a bit heavy.”
“That so…” Mari mumbled to herself.
Mari suddenly perked up “I am sorry to ask but can anyone tell me what happen after I fainted?”
Mari’s Dad Franklin let out some cough as he is read to explain and said “When I first heard about the accident, it was your friends were the one to help. Especially these three.” Gesturing to Basil, Kel and Hero. Aubrey felt a bit bitter about this but can do nothing but lower her head. Franklin suddenly noticed his rudeness and apologized “ Oh umm.. sorry Aubrey, thank you for looking after them.”
Hero taking notices that he should explain the whole things. “umm let’s start from the top.” Hero said. The parents and Aubrey who aren’t too clean about the situation also listen in. Hero explained Hero explained how to accident went down, he explained that it was Basil who was the first one who contracted everyone and how he and Kel were able to quickly rush to her aid and how they end up in the hospital with the help of Kel and Hero’s parents.
Mari listening how she and her brother were saved. “…I do not know what to say…” Mari smiling but still can't form word to express her eternal gratitude “ a thank you is too little, Don’t you think?”
Hero speaks “There no need for that, We have been friend for almost a decade? That what we do.”
Kel continues “YEAH! Basil is the one who is first to help!”
Basil nervously and try to divided the attentions and mumble out “ I didn’t help out that much… Hero and Kel did much more…, I couldn’t do much...In the end, Hero is the one who saved the both of you I think, making sure that you two are breathing and such...”
“hmm… what do you mean by that, Basil?” Mari asked.
“oh, umm before the ambulance arrived, Hero put you and Sunny into a stable state… I don’t know much about it but the doctor seem to credit Hero for doing a good job” Basil reply commending Hero’s action.
Hearing that, Mari stared at Hero astonished, feeling indebted and extremely thankful. Hero caught Mari staring into his eye a bit intensely yet full of affection, making his face a bit red and heart suddenly beat fast for the obvious reason that his crush of his entire life is peering into his eyes.
Hero look to the side and avert Mari’s gaze, face starting to turn noticeable red. He try to shake off it and said “ it was no biggie, I am just glad that I can help.”
Everyone seem to have noticed Hero’s fluster state but none are making any remarks or comments on it considering the history they had over their life, but Hero isn’t the only one who felt flustered, Mari too is starting to feel it her face blush a bit. She like Hero since they met and played with each other since childhood there is no denying that, but Mari is the one who is always fooling around and haven’t really established or advance their relationship. Mari always tease Hero whenever she got the chances and yet sometime they get intimate with each other like what couple do from sleeping with each other during the sleepover or beach trip, heck even that one time they almost kissed.
“Thank Hero.” Mari said while Hero just nodded in respond, not making eye contact nor saying anything else making it kind of hard to move on from this situation.
The atmosphere in the room shifted, All but Franklin are smiling and waiting for the two to confess their feeling like some high school romance films. While Mari’s father Franklin just stand there, his face emotionless with a hundred-yard stare into nothingness.
Mari suddenly speak up and said “ *Ahem* OK! about Sunny! can we see him?.” Changing the topic.
“Oh! Sunny’s room can only allowed 4-5 person. There are a lot of machines in there and the doctor warned that if there are too many people it can cause unwanted accident.” Aubrey said.
“that so…” Mari said with a heavy heart and a heavy sigh, rethinking back to the days where she is practicing with Sunny. she kept correcting and lecturing him even though he get better day by day but she endlessly want him to be perfect for the recital. Then, he get mad and throw the violin down the stairs broke it into pieces. Mari recall his face that time, his eyes are narrow and fierce giving a nasty stare, his mouth shut tight with his teeth grinded just staring her down, Mari never seen his brother so furious before she gets scared a bit. After that, Sunny’s stare fainted and he hang low his head not facing her, they both argue and fight which lead to this, she grab him and he accidently push her which lead to this both at the hospital.
“ugh, it’s all my fault. I shouldn’t push him too hard” Mari said with regret feeling guilty for all that had happen, maybe she shouldn’t push Sunny too hard. Her expression shifted into a sad frown. Some who are presented in the room are somewhat confused on what Mari just said while some seems to understand but not saying anything.
“What do you mean?” Aubrey immediately asked.
Mari sigh and ponder to herself. “Er, I guess I should explain myself. huh”.
“So as you all know Sunny and I had been practicing for the recital for the past few weeks well… I push him too far… and he storm out the room while practicing and throw the violin into pieces and I yell at him, he didn’t take it too well and was heading into his room but I grab him. He shakes me off but accidentally push me a bit which make me lost balance at the edge of the stairs and the last thing I see is Sunny trying to grab me and I black out… ”
The deafening silences fills in the room, as a lots of mixed emotion going on but none are voicing out. Suddenly, Franklin speak “We will talk about this later…” In a stern and bitter tone clearly agitated about this revelation but decided not to get too much into it. While Hero and the others read the mood of the room decided to stay quiet and let the grown-ups talk.
“It’s alright Dear, this is no one fault. OK?” Scarlet said trying to comfort Mari.
“Yeah, Siblings often fight that normal.” Philip said while giving an eye to Kel and Hero . “ and you know, on your fight bad luck were mixed into it. out of nowhere and shi- I MEAN. Don’t let this slide of bad luck get to you, is what I am trying to said.” Philp said.
The mood in the room is still unsettled, clearly Mari’s Dad is mad of how the accident was caused but Scarlet and Phil try their best to rectify this situation, clearly no one expected this accidents to happened not even Sunny and Mari. Hero, Kel, Basil and Aubrey remained seated but each gathered their own thought now that they all get the whole situation is sorted out at least. For all of them it is hard to imagine Mari and Sunny fight since that will highly unlikely to happen but here they are at the aftermath of it all.
“Alright OK!” Sarah said. “ things happened! Let not make it more harder than we already had it. Just to glad that both of them are alive, who know what will happened if something more unfortunate happened.” Sarah declared want to let everyone know how the outcome can be more severe.
Mari raise her head up and take a deep breathe “you are right, Sunny wellbeing comes first, whatever come next we can talk about it.” And with that everyone in the sort of smooth over this situation and let bygone be bygones for now. Soon, atmosphere in the room calm down, Scarlet being a persistent worrywart trying make sure Mari is well and have everything needed for her stay at the hospital while Mari can confirmed that everything will be fine on her part, backing her mother off.
Conversations and Conversations later, Philp get up from the seat and said “speaking of that, I think I am going to see how is the little guy doing.” Sarah, Scarlet and Franklin follow too, leaving the group of friend in the room.
====
Mari see the parents off to see Sunny, leaving she with her friends. As much as she want to see Sunny but it seems Sunny’s room has enough visitors so she will have to wait for a while… Ugh thinking about Sunny and this whole situation can’t shake away the feeling that all of this is her fault make her down and dreadful .
Suddenly, a voice speak out cheerfully and loudly. “Aye! The grown-ups are gone! So Mari, when are you leaving this place again?” Kel and everyone getting closer to Mari.
Maybe it is the way that Kel is but his cheeky yet bright personality instantly cheer she up. She crack a small laugh and answered “ Heh, I don’t know maybe in a week or two?”
“That great! The sooner the better ” Kel responds still radiance positively which just brighten up Mari’s mood.
Aubrey move in and sit herself beside Mari on the bed giving her a longing embrace. Mari felt the comfort of the embrace and return the tight hug, placing her head on top of Aubrey’s head, she thought to herself feel like she is hugging Sunny again and for a few seconds she let herself feeling the moments until she snap back into reality and said.
“Aubrey~ we just hug yesterday, back for more?” Mari said as she soften the tight embrace looking at Aubrey. Aubrey release herself from Mari’s chest and look up to her. “yea” then proceeds to continues hugging her though Mari didn’t mind it a bit.
Mari avert her gaze to Hero and said “so, What’s cooking, Good looking?” With a smug teasing face flirting.
“Nothing much, just staring at somethings beautiful.” Hero flirts back.
Mari surprised not by much. “Oh wow! flirting back. That new!”
“I have to make some come-back someday, nothings last forever ya know.” Hero said confidently.
“ *sight* I guess I am going to miss the old Hero,” Mari sight as she said remembering the day where one flirt would melt his down. “but… I guess I can put in more effort for you.” Mari said while winking her eye and a smug.
Hero didn’t anticipated the return flirt, blushing at the moments “well-“
“OI! HELLO! Don’t just flirt when we are all in the room.!” Kel speak out. Catching the two attentions. Looking around, Kel is mad and sicken to the core, Aubrey sort of stop hugging Mari and not intercepting but clearly is uncomfortable in this situation while Basil wasn’t plan on interrupting letting them do whatever they want.
“Way to gross up the room you weirdos.” Kel added.
“C’mon Kel, Mari and Hero just happy to see each other again, let them have their fun.” Basil said.
“Yea but DANG IT, Hero we discussed this earlier.” Kel remind his brother about the problem again.
“OKOK, we will stop.” Hero said giving in.
“for now~” Mari cut in. making Kel gross out with a disgusted face while the other chuckle on how Kel reacted.
Mari feeling nostalgic hanging out with them feel like the time at the treehouse where every day is easy going, If she remember correctly they haven’t hangout like this for almost 3 months. The college prep class/works and recital practices have taken up most her free time.
As Mari has her fun, she decided to stop “Alright, we will stop for real now. So how is it going?”
“Oh you know, most of our time is spent here now and school works etc and other boring stuff.” Kel said.
“Yeah, I think that basically it for all of us these past few days.” Hero said which Aubrey and Basil also nodded.
Mari take a swift look at everyone, she noticed that some of us are looked drained in sprit maybe daily visits take a tow on them. “Hey, you guys seems to be getting a bit more tired than usually, is the daily visits burning you guys out? ” Mari said voicing her concern.
“… I guess I feel a bit exhausted when we head back.” Basil said.
“same, umm feeling a bit down lately.” Aubrey said.
“Meh,” Kel shrugged looking to Hero. “we been alright.” Kel said.
“I have Kel here, we have sibling support.” Hero put Kel closer and leaning in for a smooch while Kel using all his strength started to push away his brother. “EW! Stop that.” causing them to laugh at their brotherly love a familiar sight that they are seeing.
“Heh, as much as I appreciate you all taking your time visiting me but take care of yourself OK? coming here and returning back all day can be tiring.” Mari said.
“I guess we can take it easy now that you are OK.” Hero said now with some relief in mind.
“I suppose so, I have be slacking off on my gardening.” Basil said.
“I can find a time to play some basketball, can’t let all my skill fade away.” Kel said full of confident.
“Kel, last time I played with you, you can’t score a 2 pointer when there are no one at the field.” Aubrey remarked
“Well that because I am still growing!!! HECK, I bet I can do it now.”
“Oh yeah? Wanna play soon.” Aubrey suggest
“Sure! Oh! speaking of which” Kel said and rummaging through his pocket and pulling out a deck of cards. “I got some playing cards here and I was gonna left it here in case we got bored here.”
“heh… I guess it is a great way to pass time but try to control your gambling addiction Kel. Alright?” Mari said.
“hey… I just like playing card beside we are not playing with any money and…. Ya know good on the brain with all the fast counting, math and such.” Kel began to reason
“If only that help on your homework or grade…” Hero added
“hey!” Kel speak up and the rest let out a small laugh.
Mari then added, “ since you brought it here already might as well play a few games.”
“Might as well, Blackjack like the usually?” Hero respond.
“Yep!” Kel answered.
“Alright, I am going to win this one, Basil.” Aubrey said clearly and knowing what won most games.
“heh, let see if I am lucky today.” Basil let out a soft laugh, joining in as well.
Everyone join in and play for a long while, During the rounds. Mari looked at them trying to read their face which is easy task considering how much they play for almost a year. Kel’s expression is easy to read and lack a poker face, he grin happily and act all confident when he hand is good. When his hand is bad, he just beam the card intensely wanting to change it magically. Aubrey even though she is much better than Kel at hiding her expression but she still let out a pouted face for a second when she hand is bad. Basil looked nervously excited when winning and losing making him the hardest to read, he just wait in anticipation for the cards to be revealed. Hero didn’t seem to care that much about wining and just in it for the fun same as her.
Conversations and some small bickering were exchanged and a few games has passed, Kel seems frustrated, Aubrey is contents on how the game is going, Basil, Mari and Hero seem to be chill. For the look of it Kel is clearly losing and while the other seem to be just doing fine. The groups heard a knock on the door. Sarah’s head poke out. “Hey Kids, we finished checking up on Sunny, me and the neighbors were just thinking of going to buy some groceries near here, you kids don’t mind we just go there for about an hour or two or would you rather come with?”
Hero look to everyone, they seem to be not getting up. “I think we are staying Mom.” Hero announced.
“Alright! we will be back. Bye~” Sarah said and left the room. Everyone also said their farewells, waving their hands as Sarah headed out.
They continues with their game for a couple of rounds.
During the rounds, Conversations between all of them was still ongoing, the atmosphere also feels like time back at home relaxing… However, Mari thinking back to home get a small reminder of her little brother and between the rounds Mari trying not to think about Sunny that much, giving herself sometime to rest before rushing into her brother.
The more she think about it, the thought keep reminding her, drowning her concern with the game going on and friends by herself… damn it was not enough…
Mari swiftly and suddenly get up from her bed, she woggle a bit trying to regain her balance, Hero quickly lend his forehand out for her to hold on to. The others also get up to assist and make sure her didn’t fall and on high alert.
Mari now grapple on to Hero’s extended arm. “Oof, also fell, thank for that!” Mari thanking Hero with a cheeky smile
“Mari! should you be standing?” Hero asked worriedly and try to seated Mari down on the edge of the bed.
“I am fine, beside I think I have enough of sit and lay here. Get some moving going ya know” Mari responded.
“Still are you ready? The Doc-” Hero’s words were cut short by Mari
“I need to see Sunny now….” Mari said with serious tone which silence the room. Everyone stunted and silenced not knowing what to say
Mari then continues “ ever since that day, I haven’t look at have a look at him… I never seen him so mad before. when I yell at him, he looks …. Ugh… and the last time I look at him, he desperately try to grab me.” Her voice weak and tired
“ Is just…” Mari letting out a deep sigh, growing emotional exhausted as she try to reason with her friend but I can’t the words nor feeling to express herself.
“C’mon Hero, let she see Sunny. It will be quick!” Kel added.
“Mari is fine now! Just let her see him!” Aubrey also said.
“yeah… after what has happened, a closure might help.” Basil also supported.
Hero dwell on it, thinking is it ok ? Nevertheless He said “Alright, Let’s go.” Hero lent Mari his arm to help she walk.
“thank” Mari said. As she slowly walk out the room with helping hands of Aubrey, Basil, Kel and Hero who assisted her, acting as a walking cane and helping her open a door and so the groups went out.
====
<Sunny’s Room>
The way to Sunny’s room was close however Mari’s pace is slow, she struggled a bit while walking numbing pain can be felt with each and every steps. Luckily, there are her friends helping her on the way. She is thankful for the constant supervision that all of them give her but she also wonder why Dr Nicole didn’t leave a wheelchair for her at the room. “Screw it, it just some walk away” Mari thought to herself.
Slowly but surely, the group arrived at the door where there a name plate that displays Sunny’s name and a room number that reads P-206, The door has a window on it but the room inside is dimly lighted so she can’t see anything clearly. Basil help open the door leading to the inside and All of them went in.
The room is dimly lit with the light bulb is adjusted to be low and the other light source came from the window where the sunlight shine into the room .The temperature is a cosy. Flowers and get well cards were placed neatly around the room and the bed laid Sunny still in the same spot to those who visited before.
Mari finally take a look at Sunny at a distance, his whole head were also wrapped in bandage only some of his face is visible and he is sleeping peacefully. His left hand is in a cast covering up to his wrist hanging on the side making sure no one can came into contact with the injury hand. The sight of it all sadden and sap all her spirit but she quickly walk to his side ignoring the stiffness and numbing pain she felt, Hero who is helping her also quicken his pace matching Mari suddenness.
Hero seated Mari down at a chair near Sunny. Mari instinctively grab on the Sunny’s uninjured right hand with both of her hands, Holding it tight and she take a look at Sunny. His face look peaceful like how he always look when he is at home asleep but the bandage wrapped at his head say otherwise remind she that is not the case.
Mari avert her gaze to his right hand which she is still holding. She look at his hand noticing the tip of his finger where the fingerprints are there is a red fade out line across his fingerprints, she look and think “… the violin…” she thought to herself and realize she overworked his brother to the point where he almost bleed himself from the violin strings.
Feeling ashamed of herself, she buried her head low to where her hands are and started apologizing. she chanting sorry quietly hoping her brother will forgive her but Sunny ever-still body give no respond nor any answers . Mari can’t help but started to tear up, she try to hold her tear and keeping her mouth shut not letting any voice get through but holding it as much as she can, but the slight of this all make her unable to. Letting out small cry, whimpering and sniffling the sound of it all just bring out sorrow in the hearth, even the volume of the sound is small but in this quiet room no matter which corner you are at the voice of a crying girl, it can be heard.
Aubrey, Basil, Kel and Hero who has been looking from aside noticed Mari’s whimpering. Uncertain looks were exchange between the four and are unsure what to do about this. Looking back and forth edging someone to do somethings. Finally, Aubrey, Basil and Kel all gaze to Hero who is the oldest and closest to Mari. Hero noticed all are replying on him, he internally takes a deep breath and walks towards Mari.
Hero giving Mari gentle pats to the back but isn’t sure that he should be talking. However, Hero’s comforting pats does make Mari’s whimpering and sniffling dive down a bit helping Mari calm down a bit. Hero think for a moments then speak. “ Hey, and I know that you thinks you have hurt him but none of this are meant to happened, don’t blame yourself.”
Mari’s crying clam down a bit but she still buried her head low not facing anyone. Aubrey, Basil and Kel decided to sit themselves close to Mari giving company and comfort as they hoped that it may help.
All of them seat there with each other for a long time before Mari raise her head again, starting to wiping and rubbing her eyes, Basil quickly handed her a tissues to help, Mari accepted it and thanked Basil in a shaky voice then proceeded to wipe her tear away.
Sometime later, Mari went to the washroom with Aubrey assisting her. Washing her face and calming herself. They both returns to the room after Mari seem to stop crying. Now a clear face and Mari who have collected herself, returned to her seat. Hero and the others who are sitting beside Sunny and checking how is he doing, Hero turn to look at Mari as she returned and asked “feeling better?”
Mari respond “ yeah, I am good.” Giving a genuine small grin. Good news to Hero and all of them.
Mari looked to her little brother still as a rock in the bed and asked “You think Sunny will hate me after he wake up?” which cause the rest of them to be surprised a bit.
“WAT? NO! never!” Kel speak up.
“Yeah… He will forgive you! Who know, he might even apologies first.” Basil said.
“uhm” Mari not positive about it, holding and caressing Sunny’s hand still feeling apologetic, letting out a big sigh discomfort because the uncertainty of how will Sunny will act if he were to wake up.
Sunny’s unmoving body is a familiar sight to Hero, Kel, Basil and Aubrey. Even though for them, they are used to it but still bring nothing but sadness. To Mari is a heart-wrenching sight as much as she stay strong and want to hold it in but seeing how her perfectionist pursuit harm Sunny in such a way crush her, tears flow down as to regain composure again and now looking back at her little brother, felt nothing but regret.
Mari asked Hero what he know of Sunny’s situation in which Hero reply with everything he was told, Sunny’s injuries and his estimated date and time that he will recover. Mari listen in while keeping a focus look at Sunny. Hearing that there might be side effects to his injury and will took maybe a couple of months will recover twist her mood even further. “darn it!” she speak out quietly, surprised everyone.
She clenched her fists and covered her face, “what am I going to do…., how can I let this happened….shit…” Mari cursed out quietly. Everyone looked around uncertain on how to respond seeing Mari being like this for the first time.
Hero give a pat onto Mari’s shoulder, “hey, its going to be fine, Sunny is going to recover. That all we can hope for now.”
“but… what if something IS wrong, and if after everything how am I going talk to him... heck, he might disown me.” Mari said with lot of frustrations in her mind.
“c’mon Mari, you know Sunny isn’t like that, you just have to work it out with him bit by bit.” Hero interject.
Kel cut in and said “And if you two can’t work it out, We will be here, I am sure that we can get thing back to the way it was. Isn’t that right, Aubrey, Basil?”
“Yea!” Aubrey said while Basil nodded in reply.
Mari hearing all of that does gain some resolve to talk and face Sunny again when he wake up but still her eye is still watery and wiping the tear away.
Moments has passed, Mari have calm down, the rest of the group also felt relief that Mari has stop sobbing. They all took a long moments, resting in Sunny’s Room, it was strangely cosy in this room. An aura of sleepiness and comfort does spread out once Sunny unconscious body stop fazing everyone else.
“Sunny would love this room” Mari thought to herself but then again Sunny is still in this room.
After some time, Mari suddenly speak up “Let’s head back, let give him some spaces.” To which all of them agreed and returning to Mari’s room, Mari being the last one out slowly closed the door and leave as well.
===
Mari along with the rest of them all returned to Mari’s room, She take a look at the clock noticing it is about time their parents will return soon and pickup Hero and the others, Mari now laying in the bed.
Feeling tired after all them have happened if she closed her eyes now, she will get a good sleep. Hero also noticed it is about time they are able to go, turn to his younger brother and friends and said “Alright, mom and dad will be back soon, make sure you guys don’t forget anything.”
Kel speak ups “ Eh, I will leave the playing card here, Mari, in case you get bored.”
“OH” Aubrey suddenly shouted catching everyone attentions.
“I almost forgot.” Aubrey reach into her pocket and take out a small bag of candies that were get well gifts from Vance and Kim.
“This is from Vance and Kim.” Aubrey said as she handed the gift to Mari.
Mari accepted the gift and upon hearing the familiar name and was deep in thought trying to remember who they were, “Oh… I haven’t seen them for a while.” Thinking back as if has been almost been half a year since she lasted seen or talked to them, the college prep works and recital practices sure keep her out of touch with her neighbors.
“…umm I will thank them when I see them again.” Mari said and open up the bag, unwrapped one of the candy and started taste it in her mouth.
Mari show the bag of candies to the groups, “want some?” sharing some to them.
Kel reach out his hand immediately try to take one but stopped and back off “Nah, you should have all of it.”
“Ya, you are staying here longer after all.” Aubrey said and Hero and Basil seem to agreed.
“oh…if you guys say so,” Mari has no other choices bit to complies with what her friends are requesting.
“Alright, we still get some time left. Do you guys wanna do somethings else before you all go?” Mari asked as their parent are coming back soon.
Aubrey, Basil, Kel and Hero looked at each other drawing a blank with no idea to do, most of them now know how the accident has happened and they didn’t want to question anything about the accident or what happened between Mari and Sunny as it would been too sensitive and Mari just awoke yesterday. Looks were exchanged between the four of them and Mari can’t help but crack a small smile as all of them didn’t really know what to do.
Kel reach for the deck of playing cards “how about we continues the game.” Kel suggested and hoping that it will help Mari offload the heavy stuff on Mari’s mind.
“sure.” Mari said, having a little time with them left might as well spent it.
“anyone keeping scores?” Aubrey said.
“I think…I was wining ” Kel said uncertain about it.
“NO WAY!” Aubrey said, “ You’re tied with me at least.”
“ WAT?? I would have sworn that I was at least win 2 points over you.” Kel responded..
“Alright, Alright. Settle down! If we can’t figure who is wining earlier, we can restart the game If you all don’t mind.” Hero said.
“Uhm, Kel going need it with his luck.” Aubrey saying some fighting words.
“OOOO, you are going to regret that.” Kel clearly provoked ready to throw cards
“Basil, you don’t mind. Do you?” Mari asked.
“nope, not really, let play!” Basil seems to been content with how everything is going.
“Alright then, let’s start!” Mari announced as she pull out a paper and pen from the nearby drawer, Keeping the scores at this Blackjack Free-For-All.
As the game began, cards were sliding into their hands and were flipped to see who won. As round and round go by, each of them has at least won a hand but the leading winner is Kel and Aubrey who is equally match at the moments, needing one wining hand to be a tie breaker. However, Kel and Aubrey being who they are, started to get competitive and more heated as the game go on, they laughed at each other’s misfortunate and it was not long until they start bickering which lead to Hero trying to settle them down while Mari and Basil just enjoyed their friends’ usually banter.
Their bickering get louder as it they forget they are in a hospital and Hero had to constantly tone them down while Mari and Basil had a chuckle every now and then, The bickering get to a point where the nurse have to check up on them which cause some embarrassment for Hero and has to apologize constantly.
Hero’s phone ring suddenly and he answered the calls. A short while, he close the calls.
“ Guys, let’s wrap this game soon. Mom and Dad are coming back soon.” Hero warned.
“Alright, what is everyone’s scores.” Mari said.
“Kel and Aubrey are tied together, the rest of us are 2-3 points behinds.” Basil said.
“Alrighty, AUBREY YA HEARD THAT, WHO LOSING NOW.” Kel speak out excitingly.
“SHUT UP! we’re tied, DUMBO!” Aubrey responded.
“TIED FOR NOW, THERE ALSO A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING. AUBREY, I AM GOING TO WIN THIS.” Kel said.
“YA? WELL SAME GO TO, I haven’t won a game since we played. MAYBE THIS IS MY WIN.” Aubrey exchange.
“Geez, calm down you two.” Hero trying to calm them down.
Mari think for a moments and said “hmmm, how about this, since you two are tied, how about we sit this one out and let you two play it out, one of you two can finally win.”
Aubrey and Kel exchange a look.
“You Ok with this, Aubrey?” Kel asked for the climactic end.
“Sure but first to 3. Win this. Deal?” Aubrey responded with a term.
“Yep, I am alright with that.” Kel agreed to the term.
Now that the two of them agreed to this rule they made, Hero became the referee for the two’s final game. He grabs the card and begin shuffling it.
“SO, the first to a 3 win is the winner of this game. No take back OK?” Hero explained the final rules again and shuffling the cards constantly.
The two of them nods.
Hero stopped shuffling and slide both player the cards.
(Round 1 ) Blackjack
Aubrey (10) (2)
Kel (7) (8)
Aubrey and Kel’s face went pale, Aubrey hand total of 12 and Kel hand a total of 15. Both players’ hand is not that great.
Hero asked Aubrey if she wanted to draw, she answered with a yes. A card slide into Aubrey’s hand, Aubrey take a peek and the card is (5) which make a total of 17. Hero asked if she want to draw again. She paused for a good long moments. Thinking can a (17) win this or get greedy to reach close to (21). She decided to stop.
Hero gestured his hand to Kel. Asking if he want to draw. He nodded. A card were flipped into his hand, he take a peek which revealed a (9). Kel’s face went grey. Hero asked if Kel has enough. Kel answered with a low tone “yep”.
Hero asked both of them to revealed their card.
Players’ hand
Aubrey (10) (2) (5) = 17 {WIN}
Kel (7) (8) (9) = 24
Kel looked at Aubrey’s card. “WHAT THE HECK, AUBREY you took my (5). I could have win.”
Aubrey responded “ WELL you took my (9), it will a tie, you dummy!”, as their hand will be a 21 – 21 tied.
“Oh” Kel’s face dumbfounded causing Mari and Basil let out a crack of laugh.
Hero gathered all the card and shuffled hard and sent them out again to Aubrey and Kel.
(Round 2)
Aubrey (10) (10)
Kel (7) (2)
Aubrey face lighted up while Kel has a neutral face on. Hero asked if Aubrey want to draw but an enthusiastic “nope” came from Aubrey. pretty obvious that she has a good hand. Hero turn to Kel, Kel want to draw. Hero slide him a card into his hand (10). Kel said enough. Hero asked to revealed the cards.
Player’s hand
Aubrey (10) (10) = 20 {WIN}
Kel (7) (2) (10) = 19
Aubrey wins again. Kel at this point can do nothing but let out a big disappointed sigh as he is losing while Hero continues to gather the card and began shuffle again.
“DANG it.” Kel said clearly frustrated about this.
“how about you forfeit this one.” Aubrey reply wanting to take this easy win.
“NAH, beside, this is when I pull a 3 win streak. GET READY!” Kel responded confidently.
Round 3
Aubrey (6) (9)
Kel (ACE) (10) {WIN}
Kel immediately flipped his cards. “BLACKJACK” proclaiming his win.
Aubrey is shocked a bit. “tsk, you just got lucky.”
“THE PROPHECY IS COMING.” Kel said.
Hero gathered and shuffled the cards and distribute them the cards.
Round 4
Aubrey (5) (9)
Kel (4) (9)
Both immediately want another card. Hero slide each a card. Aubrey get a (6); Kel get (5). Both of them have enough and they flipped the cards.
Round 4
Aubrey (5) (9) (6) = 20
Kel (4) (9) (5) = 18
“ Welp, that FREAKING SUCK!” Kel said.
“heh! I won first.” Aubrey happy that she finally win one game in the endless games they play.
“Congrats, Aubrey.” Mari said while giving a clap. “Yeah, you did it” Basil congrats
Mari turn to look at Kel. Kel obliviously bummed that he lose this. “Hey, Kel don’t be sad, there always a next game.” Mari said trying to cheer him up.
Kel just give a sigh of defeat and a pout on his face “uhm, I guess you’re right.” Kel decided not to be a sore loser about this and move on.
Hero turned to the group “Yea, chin up. There always next time.” Giving a pat on his brother’s shoulder.
He looked to the time which is almost noon and their parents are almost here to pick them up. “OK guys, it’s about time for us to head back. If you have anything left to do, do it now.”
“ummm we pretty much done everything here.” Kel said pretty much spent for the day.
“Well if that the case, let’s tidy this room before we leaves Kay?” Hero suggested to everyone.
“Sure, might as well.” Aubrey said while Basil seem to agree.
“Aww, thank.” Mari thankful for all of them
They spent the rest of their time tidying up the room and making sure that the room is clear for Mari to be comfortable to rest in. As soon as they finished the task with some more time left and nothing else to do, they sit, talk and wait for the grown-ups to pick them up. Kel suddenly speaks up “Hey Mari!.”
“Ya?” Mari reply back.
“I was wondered if you want me to help taking care of Sunny after he awaken and well.” Kel asked.
“Oh, what do you mean?” Mari is intrigued in what Kel say.
“I mind not to be rude or anything, Sunny is looking a bit pale and skinny more than usually, I can helping making him more beefy. GETTING some sunlight and exercise. If you like it?” Kel giving his suggestion wishing to help.
“I guess that it is always nice to have someone look after him.” Mari seem to have no problem with Kel’s suggestion.
Basil whispering something to Aubrey which cause Aubrey to yell out. “NO WAY!” Aubrey called out. “the last time you play basketball with Sunny, he was out of breathe and nearly passed out.” causing Mari to remember back that one time and rising her concern.
“WHAT?! it was great, we have dozen of pizza and Orange Joe afterwards, it’s good!” Kel defending his method of helping.
Mari now completely concerned “ummmm Kel, I know you want to help but this seems unhealthy.”
“C’mon Mari, it’s good. Trust me.” Kel reinforce.
Mari stopped and think for some time before answering “how about this you can help but Aubrey and Basil have to be with you and Sunny when you’re exercising.”
Mari turned to Basil and Aubrey “ you two can help me with that. Can you?” asking for them to help.
“I can keep an eye out.” Basil agreed to help.
“Sure! No problem” Aubrey also agreed to lend a hand.
“Great!” Mari happy that they can help.
Some knock on the door can be heard, door open revealing the grown-ups. “Hey. We are back!” Scarlet said. “it is getting late, you guys ready to head back?” Phil asked.
“Yea” Hero said and standing up gathering everyone stuff.
The rest of them also stand up and starting to head out. “See you later, Mari.” “ Rest well. You heard!” “byee, I will bring new flowers next time I visited.” Kel, Aubrey and Basil head out of the room.
Hero finish packing everything and started to head out before leaving the room he turned back to Mari. “Well, see you soon, Mari. I will make something for you the next visit.”
Mari smiles before switching to a smug look “ looking forwards to it. Thank handsome.” Mari flirts and appreciated Hero cooking for her causing Mrs. Scarlet to look at Hero smugly knowing what is going on between the two.
“hey…” Hero want Mari to stopped, he is clearly uncomfortable when Mari keep flirting in front of her parents.
Mari let out a small laugh “heh, OKOK, byee~”. Hero also wave goodbye and head out the room.
Scarlet walk in the room and give Mari a peck kiss on her forehead. “ Alright Mari, we will see you soon. Take care alright?”
Mari give a return peck kiss to her mom “See you soon Mom.”
Scarlet saying her goodbye and head out of Mari’s room, Mari catching the last glimpse of her family and friends waving goodbye to her at the doorway. Mari waved back as they all slower leaving her sight.
=====
Mari now alone in the room was a little bit tired on her own. She lay down on the bed thinking she should take a nap or wait until a bit later in the night to sleep. She think back to her little brother who she finally get to meet, it is great news that he is safe; the not so great news that he is still need a lot of time to recover and coming with a apologize isn’t going to be easy, Mari herself isn’t sure how Sunny will react when he wake up, will he be angry or scared of her… the complicated thought tired her out and she closed her eyes unwillingly drifted into a sleep.
After a lot of internal thinking, Mari fall into a sleep without noticing. She was reawaken by the sound of the nurse entering her room with a dinner tray. The nurse noted she wake up Mari. “Oh! sorry about that, didn’t know you were asleep.”
Mari yawned and rubbed her eye. “ *yawnnn* oh, no need to worry.” As she sit up from her bed.
“I brought some food if you can eat.” The nurse handed the food to her.
“Thank.” Mari reply.
“you’re welcomed, I ma head out now, call if you needed any help.” The nurse said as she was heading out.
Mari take a look at her dinner which is normal looking dinner which is a roasted chicken with some gravy sauce , mashed potato, green peas and some fruits. The portions seems to be a bit large and she has the appetite to stomach it all. Feeling great about full meal, she think to herself maybe she should take a bath, she reach for her luggage which her mother brought and she search for a set of clothes to wear.
She chooses her clothes and grab a towel. Now wanting to stand up again, she stand up from her bed, seem to has a bit of trouble gaining a steady ground but after a few minutes she is good and head her way slowly to the shower, lucky the shower get a sitting area which is nice for Mari at the moments. She seated herself and turn on the shower head letting the water turn hot before washing herself.
As she finished with her shower and dry herself putting on comfy nightwear which is sweater and sweatpants to fight off the cold. She returned to her bed checking what time is it. 7:45 almost 8 in the night, she browse through the phone watching the news or any video to keep herself entertained until she decided to fall back to sleep.
………
A thought suddenly rushed back to Mari, it is about Sunny again, she think to herself that she can wait until tomorrow to meet him again and try to occupied herself with the phone on her hand but the more she think about the more she want to see her brother. Thinking back and forth until she decided to screw it and started getting up from her bed and walking her way through Sunny’s room.
She exited out her room, where the hospital hallway is still lighted. Some nurses can be spotted walking in and out across the hallway checking on patients from door to door. One of the nurse noticed Mari exited out her room and said “Hey! Should you be out at the moment?”
“Oh! umm I was just wondering can I get a look at my brother before tucked in for the day.” Mari explaining herself.
“umm I guess I can let it slide but be back at your room at 10, it is going to get dark soon. OK?” The nurse given her permission and request.
Mari nods and continues to Sunny’s room, Mari arrived at the doorstep and open the door. Another nurse was checking up and taking care of him. The nurse turn to Mari and take a look before talking “Oh, you must be Mari, the patient’s big sister is it?”
Mari respond with a yes and another nods.
“Oh you come to see your brother, am I right? I will be done in a moments.” The nurse said who seems to know of the situation.
Mari nodded, seated herself aside and let the nurse do her check-up. After a few minutes, The nurse finished up everything and give Mari some time to connect with Sunny but Mari reach out to the nurse wanting to ask a question. “ ummm nurse? If you don’t mind, can I ask about my brother’s condition.”
The nurse stopped and think to herself uncertain about it , “hmmm I guess you’re better now, what do you want to know?”
“well… I know that his injury is more severe than mine from the look of it and I was told that he will take longer to recover.” Mari said.
The nurse nods and said “yep! That pretty much sum up most of it. His injured hand suffered a dislocation but that will heal in no-time… his head is the one which is more severe …. We can say that he will be A-OK but he might be in a month long coma and once he regain consciousness we can’t say for certain that there will not to any side effect prior to the injury.”
“Oh… thank for telling me.” Mari said.
With that question answered the nurse bid her farewell and went out of the room, Mari seated herself closer to Sunny at his bedside again. Looking at him and reminiscence his sleeping face but now can’t help to have a bitter feeling about this, she reach out and hold his brother’s hand.
“Sunny… I am sorry… I don’t know if you can hear me or not… but I want you to know I am sosoSO sorry.” Mari apologize, holding her brother hand close but not tight.
“I don’t know whether if you will forgive me… but please if you have the chances to wake up… PLEASE WAKE UP! I don’t care if you hate me but PLEASE don’t stay like this forever…”
“you can hate me as much as you want, but Aubrey, Basil ,Kel and Hero are waiting for you… so please open your eye when you have the chance.”
Nothing responded back but the beeping sound of the life support machine. Mari did not know what to do at this points, she found herself just laying her head down at Sunny’s bed looking at his face and hand, wondering what can she do to change thing back to the way it was……Not long after staying in the room for a long time, she close her eye bit by an hours and drift herself into a sleep in a chair with her brother at arm length,