Too Ashamed to Face Crawford

In the stillness, the faint chirping of crickets from outside seemed to resonate through the walls.

"Oh, how delightful," Lucia's grandmother said looking away.

Bradley awkwardly scratched his head, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Yeah, you can say so " he mumbled, trying to downplay his earlier dramatics.

Lucia's grandmother beckoned with a warm smile, "Why don't you both come join me," she suggested, pointing to a bowl of freshly popped popcorn. Lucia and Bradley moved in sync, each reaching for a handful of the buttery treat. "The commercial break is over; the show is just about to start," she announced, settling back into her cushions.

The trio sat down together, the laughter from the comedy show filling the room. They shared chuckles and light-hearted banter, the kind that knits hearts closer. Amidst the mirth, Lucia excused herself, her expression turning solemn as she stepped out into the quiet hospital corridor.