Jaded: Chapter 5

"Will she be alright?" Jade's mom questions with a look of deep agony on her face.1

"Well, maybe," replies Dr. Black. "It all depends upon whether or not her body accepts the transfusion. If she survives this--"2

A shrill gasp emerges from Jade's mother's mouth.3

"Never mind; I meant when she survives this. So sorry. Hmmm... now what was I saying? Ah yes, after this mishap you should really consider having Jade's blood type tested. Of course, type O will always work, but as you know we're running a bit short on that, so we used your blood type and the blood type of your husband to determine what we assume now her blood type must be. But, please keep in mind that we can not predict exactly what will occur."4

The words "I understand" are mumbled just before Jade's mother breaks into tears.5

...6

"You can come in now," reports one of the many nurses that have walked in and out of Jade's room for over an hour.7

"Yes. Thank you," says Jade's father as he considers what there is for him to say. Both of the parents walk in slowly, but they are both eager to once again see Jade's young face.8

Once in the room, there is a pervading silence that sweeps through Jade's tired body.9

Jade's father attempts to break the ice. "How's the weather?" he asks stupidly, as his wife points to the closed blinds. "Oh, okay," comes his response.10

Again there is silence.11

"Jade, we're so sorry about this. About everything. God, I'm sorry," finally is heard through Jade's mother's sobs.12

"Mommy," whispers Jade with all her remaining strength.13

Jade's mom is surprised at her daughters comment. Jade hasn't referred to her like that in years. Through the surprise, Jade's mother finds a definite love shining from Jade's weak smile. Finally, with a sigh, she replies, "Yes, dear?"14

"I..." Jade pulls herself up to a sitting position on the bed. "I love..."15

she struggles to say. "I..."16

Suddenly, Jade is overcome with fatigue and allows herself to sink into the comfort of the warm bed beneath her.17