At the Hospital- 01

Returning to her journey to the hospital, Alexandra felt her mind teetering on the brink of despair. It was the same day she had arrived from New York only to discover that James had been cheating on her with Emmy, her best friend. To make matters worse, it was also the day her mother was rushed to the hospital.

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"Just take me anywhere I can find another taxi driver to get me there, please!"

"I'll pay you!" she pleaded, desperation lacing her voice. 

Her heavy eyelids awaited his response.

"Let me see what I can do," he replied, starting the car.

He looked at her, his concern growing.

"How can a beautiful lady like you be out at this hour all by herself?"

Seeing her in distress made him realize she was in serious trouble. He immediately called a friend and filled up on extra gas.

When she heard him say, "Let me see what I can do," her eyelids felt even heavier. After 45 minutes, she stirred awake as they neared the hospital.

"There it is! The hospital!" she shouted,

looking left and right. She handed him $250 without waiting for change and dashed into the emergency department, asking where her mother had been admitted.

"Thank you for saving my life," her mother managed to say, holding Nick's hand.

The doctors had warned them that any delay—even a minute—could have cost her.

As she opened the door, she noticed the doctor leaving.

"Muuuuum!" She rushed to the bed and hugged her tightly.

"I'm so sorry!"

"It's okay, baby. Just a few headaches—you know I'm used to that now." Her mother teased, managing to bring a smile to Alexandra's tear-streaked face.

"What?!" she exclaimed, her smile brightening. She hugged her mother again.

"Be careful, young lady. am a little bit older, remember?" her mother said playfully.

"And why are you here exactly?" Alexandra asked, still wrapped in the embrace.

"Wait!"

"Mum, you didn't take your medication, did you?"

They exchanged knowing looks, laughter spilling between them. 

"My daughter is becoming an FBI these days!" her mother teased, glancing away.

"Really?"

Alexandra "forced a smile despite her disappointment."

"Gosh, I have a mum!" She nodded playfully, and they both laughed together.

"Mum-and-daughter things."

"Well, I think I should be going," Nick interjected. "The kids must be awake by now"

"Oh, it's okay, son go get them. It's okay." Her mother opened her arms for a hug. "Take care of yourself."

"You too, Mum," Nick replied warmly.