Chapter 13 - THE SURGERY
The surgery lasted six hours.
Marcus waited outside the operating room with Maya.
She was too frightened to eat.
He bought her hot chocolate.
She held the cup with both hands.
“Do you think Mom will wake up?”
Marcus sat beside her.
“Yes.”
“How do you know?”
“I don't.”
Maya looked at him.
“Then why did you say yes?”
“Because hope is sometimes the only thing you can give someone while you wait.”
Maya leaned against him.
The doors finally opened.
The surgeon removed his mask.
“She made it.”
Maya burst into tears.
Marcus closed his eyes in relief.
Olivia survived.
For the first time since meeting her, Marcus allowed himself to breathe.
Hours later, Olivia opened her eyes.
Maya whispered, “Happy birthday.”
Olivia smiled weakly.
“It isn't my birthday anymore.”
“It doesn't matter.”
Maya held her hand.
“We can celebrate again.”
Olivia looked at Marcus.
May you like
He smiled.
“She's right.”
