CHAPTER 34: Between Two Heartbeats

---

Chapter 34: Between Two Heartbeats

Daisy

Hospitals always smelled the same—like disinfectant and old silence.

She walked slowly beside Calvin, past white walls and hushed voices, until they stopped outside Room 217.

"He's in there," the nurse said gently.

Daisy paused.

"Do you want me to come in?" Calvin asked.

She hesitated… then nodded.

---

Inside

Her father lay still against a mountain of white pillows. Thinner than she remembered. His skin grayed with time. Wires ran from his hands to machines that beeped slowly, steadily—like a metronome for his remaining days.

His eyes opened as they entered.

"Daisy," he rasped. "You came."

She stood at the edge of the bed. So much to say. No idea where to start.

---

Joseph Akello

"I didn't think I'd get to see you again."

Daisy's lips pressed together. "That wasn't your choice."

He coughed lightly, pain flashing through his features. "No. It wasn't. But it was a consequence."

Calvin stayed by the door, giving her space.

"Why now?" she asked. "Why only when you're dying?"

He looked at her, eyes glossy. "Because death makes cowards honest."

---

Daisy

She sat down.

"I hated you," she whispered. "For leaving. For not writing. For not fighting."

He nodded slowly. "I hated myself, too."

Silence stretched between them, fragile and real.

She didn't forgive him. Not yet.

But she didn't leave either.

---

Later, Outside

Daisy stepped into the sunlight, eyes burning.

Calvin reached for her hand.

And this time, she didn't pull away.

---