Chapter 129
ASHER
I still can’t believe I made it out alive, with my entire family by my side no less. In hindsight, I think the thought of my family not being there when I awoke from surgery because I obviously didn’t tell them about my condition to avoid being pitied or perceived as weak, scared me more than the tumor growing in my brain.
It felt wholesome to open my eyes and find the entire Rollins clan in my room, all brimming with love and care for me. It’s been a while since I have been on the receiving end of such love, especially from my father. I searched for him first obviously. I expected his face to be smeared with equal parts shock and frustration given that we have a major company event coming up in three days which I might not be strong enough for.
It sucks. If I didn’t feel so woozy, I’d gladly drag myself out of bed to do what I can to ensure the program is a huge success. Why did death come knocking too soon? Why couldn’t it just wait a bit longer?
As I lock eyes with father, my heart thuds in my chest. Will this be the way Josh steals the show and usurps my place in the company and in our father’s eyes? I can’t begin to explain how much that thought scares the shit out of me.
"I’d like a word with Asher."
Hearing father utter those words make my heart plummet to my stomach. I silently gasp for air as the room thins out. He stands like a robot with his hands jammed in his pockets until the door clicks shut. I press my eyes shut, ready for the earful. I messed up, I get it. I really wish we can have this conversation some other time.
My heart quickens when I hear a sniffle and when I open my eyes, I am just in time to see father edge close to my bed and ease a hip by the side. The look in his eyes is warm with a tinge of fear. He closes a hand over mine.
"I thought I lost you." He croaks out, his voice laden with guilt. "Jesus, Asher, you have no idea how close you came to giving me a heart attack today." He shakes his head and swipes at his wet eyes. When they settle on me again, they’re red. "I CAN’T LOSE YOU, SON. I JUST CAN’T."
I don’t realize I am crying until father dabs the stray tear rolling down my cheek.
"I’m s-sorry, father."