Never the same - Manifest

Chapter 10: only time will tell

Ben
"Where are we headed, then? As the quick stop." Olive asked.

"You know what? I actually changed my mind."

"Are you sure?"

"Do you mind if I go to the hospital to see..."

"Saanvi? Yeah, I know, you kind of have a thing for her?"

"Maybe I do, but I need to talk to her right now. Do you mind if I go?"

"No, I'll stay in the car."

" Thanks, I appreciate it."

Ben and Olive arrive at the hospital.

You're gonna be okay?" Ben asked.

"I'm not 5 years old, Dad."

"Okay, okay, just making sure."

"Go."

"Ok," Ben said, getting out of his car. heading towards the entrance of the hospital. As Ben entered the hospital, he met with the front desk receptionist.

"Hi, how can I help you?" The receptionist asked.

"Is Dr. Bahl still here?"

"No, she left earlier than she usually does."

Ben sighed. "Oh, thanks, okay, I'll just come back later."

"Okay, have a nice day."

"You too," Ben said, then walked out of the hospital disappointed. When he went back to the car, Olive asked, "Why so quick?"

"She wasn't there. Strangely. The receptionist said she left early."

"I wouldn't worry too much about it. That's what phones are for."

"Yeah, well I guess we can head to your Aunt Mick's place."

They arrive at the apartment. They get their bags and start heading to her apartment room. Olive knocks on the door and waits for her to answer. Michaela opens the door after a few moments.

"Hey," Michaela says, opening the door, and pulling Ben in for a hug. "How are things going?"

"Not great," Olive says, as they're still both standing in the door frame.said.

Ben pulls away from the hug. "I'll survive as hard as it is."

"Okay, I have an extra bedroom... and then the couch."

Michaela steps aside as Ben and Olive come inside.

"I'll take the couch," Olive says.

"Really? No, I can take it."

"No, Dad, you deserve to sleep in the bed."

"Okay..."

Michaela puts her hands together and says, "Did you guys eat yet?" I can make something for you if you're hungry," Michaela offers. "That would be great, thank you," Ben replies gratefully.

"Olive?"

"No," Olive says. "I'm not hungry."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Okay, cool. Also, I'm seeing Zeke tomorrow, so I'll have to tell them that you're here if we decide to hang out at my place."

"Zeke?" Olive asked.

"My boyfriend, your Dad knows," Mick says.

"Oh cool. I'd like to meet him."

"Sure," Michaela says, walking over to the fridge. "How long do you plan on staying?"

"Until I can find an apartment."