Before you knew

178.

We get to out feet, and Clay puts the ring around my finger.
'I love you.' I whisper as he does so.

He smiles.
'I love you more.'

We slowly gather our senses and walk back to the car.
Marriage is still far away, having to go through pregnancy first.
One step at a time, we'll get to where we want to be eventually.

Right when Clay unlocks the car, my phone rings in his pocket.
He hands it over. It's Kim.

'Hey, how are you?' I ask after pushing the button to answer.
'I'm alright. You?' By the sound of her voice I can tell somethings up.

'Had a bit of trouble, but I'm good now.'
My eyes move to look at Clay and he smiles brightly.
'Is there something you need to tell me?'

The sigh leaving her lips says enough.
'Mom is sick, worse then ever....

Pain in my chest at the words.
She's been sick for a while, but not too bad.

She's in the hospital.'

All the happiness and calmness left me in an instant.
'Hospital? But how bad is it?'

'I can't say for sure, but it's getting dangerous.'

I sigh and lay my hand over my forehead.
'What do you want me to do?'
I open my eyes at watch the ocean and the horizon.
'Micheal said to wait till they say more. Maybe it's not life threatening.'

I fall silent.
Moments like these make me regret immigrating.
I'm to far away to help or do something.

'Call me if you know more?'
'Of course, I'll keep you updated.'
'Thank you, say hi for me.'

Kim leaves a short silence.
'I wil.'

'Kim, if you need me to come, you know I-'
'I know. Just stay where you are, if you're needed I'll let you know.'

I nod my head.
'Alright.'

We hang up and I turn to Clay.
'Someone in the hospital?'
I nod my head and look down.
'Mom.'

His hand moves to hold both of mine.

Everything at once.
It's always something.

'You'll hear more if it gets worse?'
Clays voice is gentle.
'Yes.'

He sighs and walks around the car,
His embrace is loose, gentle.

'Wait til, you hear more.'