Chapter 5

Even going so far as to send her a text message in a pleading tone, "Vivienne, I'm begging you, please come to the hospital."

"I beg you to come see our daughter one last time."

But the messages sank like stones into the sea, with no response in sight.

Sunshine's innocent eyes were filled with hope: "Daddy, I want Mommy to tell me a little story, so sweetheart won't be scared of the pain."

"Daddy will tell you a story."

My daughter touched my gaunt, stubbly face, and finally couldn't hold back her tears.

She sobbed, "Daddy, is Sunshine going to die soon?"

"If Sunshine dies, you have to take me home."

"I haven't seen Mommy in so long."

I couldn't speak anymore, tears blurring my vision.

Soon, a sharp beeping from the machines rang out.

Amidst the electronic beep-beep-beep, my daughter's hand fell completely limp.

The doctor, with a face full of regret, informed me:

"I'm sorry, Mr. Stratton, we couldn't save your daughter."

Outside, it was pouring rain.