Chapter 634: Baffled, she resolved to find out directly from him when the occasion arose.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtOn Saturday morning, after dropping Hadley at the dance studio, Eric reminded her, “Remember our date tonight. I'll be there to pick you up." "Got it," Hadley responded, fighting the impulse to roll her eyes. How often would he repeat himself? Yet, with each reminder, her curiosity deepened. What was so critical about this day? Later that afternoon, as Hadley was getting dressed, her phone buzzed.
It was Melba, sounding panicked. “Hadley! Are you free to leave right now? It's urgent—Joy is really sick!" What? A wave of concern washed over Hadley. "What's happened to Joy? Where are you now?" "She's been suffering from vomiting and diarrhea..." Tears clouded Hadley's eyes momentarily. "I'm calling an ambulance. We'll meet at the hospital, okay?" "Alright!" After hanging up, Hadley quickly finished changing and dashed to the hospital. Arriving directly from the dance studio, she reached the emergency center before the ambulance, anxiously awaiting its arrival. As the ambulance pulled up, Melba emerged, cradling Joy in her arms.
"Joy!" Hadley approached quickly and gently received Joy from Melba. She hid her worry, maintaining a calm demeanor for Joy's sake. Children often mirror their parents' emotions, and a mother's fear could easily make a child uneasy.
"Mommy," Joy whispered, nestling closer in her mother's arms, her eyes glistening with tears. "I feel sick." "It's okay, baby. Mommy's here." Hadley softly caressed her daughter's moist cheek. “Hang in there, love. The doctor will make you feel better soon." "Okay." Joy's sniffles were muffled as she clung tighter to her mother. "Just let the doctor check you, okay, Joy?" The doctor, after a thorough check-up, diagnosed Joy with acute gastroenteritis. Considering Joy's other health concerns, they decided to keep her in the hospital for close monitoring.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmWith the hospitalization process underway, Hadley reached out to Colden. As Joy's regular physician, he was deeply familiar with her medical history. Colden was off duty that evening, but he arrived promptly after receiving Hadley's urgent call.
After checking on Joy, he confirmed the initial diagnosis. “She has acute gastroenteritis. Given her delicate condition, staying in the hospital is the best course." "Thank you, Dr. Torres."
A wave of relief washed over Hadley as she expressed her gratitude. "I'm sorry forthe trouble."
With a reassuring smile, Colden responded, "Not a problem You did the right thing. Always callright away if it's about Joy."
He paused for a moment before continuing, "She's stable for nown Continue with her usual treatments and check-ups. Don't hesitate to call if you need anything." "Thanks so much." After bidding Colden goodbye, Hadley settled in beside Joy. Joy, still teary-eyed with a raspy voice, looked up at her mother.