Episode 126

Elizabeth lingered at the doorway, steadying herself for several moments before masking her concerns with a bright smile and stepping inside. “Grandma, are you feeling poorly again?”
“Elizabeth, my dear!” Gracie greeted her with a strained smile. “I’m just feeling the weight of my years, that’s all. It’s nothing serious.”
Beside Gracie’s bed, Elizabeth clasped her grandmother’s hand, tears brimming in her eyes.
The hand she held was frail, more skeletal than flesh, the skin papery thin. A network of raised veins crisscrossed the back of her hand, punctuated by the telltale marks of numerous needles—a testament to her enduring battles.
Gracie’s eyes, clouded and wistful, met Elizabeth’s with deep fondness. “Oh, Elizabeth, don’t weep. You’re grown now. You know life’s fleeting nature. And remember, even in my absence, don’t be afraid. I trust in your strength to face whatever comes.”
“Grandma, I’m going to find the top specialists to help you. And once you’re better, I promise we’ll go on that trip you’ve always wanted,” Elizabeth declared, her smile wavering as she spoke, caught between comforting Gracie and seeking solace for herself.
Gracie offered a weak nod, a glimmer of hope flickering in her gaze. “Alright, my dear. I’ll hold you to that journey.”
Their heartfelt exchange was gently interrupted by the doctor, who stepped in with a reminder laced with professional concern. “The patient needs to conserve her strength: Ms. Elizabeth, could we discuss a few things in my office, please?”
With a heavy heart weighed by concerns for Gracie’s well-being, Elizabeth stood up from her chair, her reluctance clear in her hesitant movements. “Grandma, try to get some good rest. I really need to head off now. Work has been overwhelmingly busy, but I promise to swing by whenever I am free.”
Gracie, her expression softening, gave an understanding nod. “Being busy is part of life. Just make sure you’re also taking care of yourself,” she advised warmly. “The medical staff here are top-notch, so there’s no need for you to worry about me.”
With a final, lingering look at Gracie, Elizabeth made her way out and followed the doctor toward his office.
Once inside, she approached the subject with visible hesitation. “Doctor, is there any chance the payment could be postponed just a few days? I’ll settle it as soon as my paycheck comes through.”
The doctor’s expression clouded with concern. “Ms. Elizabeth, your circumstances don’t exactly qualify as dire. The treatments we’re employing are top-tier and costly. It’s not our practice to delay charges.”