My coldhearted ex demands a remarriage

Chapter 103:

Tristan, perhaps sensing her urgency, cooperated without fuss, facilitating the legalities swiftly. Yet, it was only when she firmly grasped the deed to the property, her name freshly inked across the document, that Carrie allowed herself a moment of hard-earned peace.

Life had a way of dumping everything at her feet all at the same time. Just as she was unlocking her front door, Carrie’s phone rang sharply with a call from the hospital where Gracie was being treated.

“Ms. Campbell, I’m afraid your grandmother’s condition has deteriorated significantly. We need to transfer her to the ICU immediately and revise her treatment protocol. Unfortunately, this will also mean an increase in costs. Could you please come to the hospital as soon as possible to discuss these changes and arrange for the payment?”

For Carrie, it felt like a cruel reminder that life’s unforeseen challenges could easily outstrip her every effort to stay ahead. Without wasting a moment, she hurriedly changed her outfit and rushed to the hospital.noveldrama

She found Gracie lying in her hospital bed, a mere shadow of her former self, surrounded by a maze of tubes and beeping monitors. Having been raised by her grandmother, Carrie’s bond with Gracie was deeper than any other. Memories flooded back to her of simpler times—times when Gracie would treat her to ice cream outings.

As they enjoyed their sweet treats, a young Carrie would promise, with earnest eyes, to one day take her grandmother to lavish restaurants and beautiful, far-off places. Now, standing by her bed, Carrie clutched at those cherished memories of them together—Gracie’s warm hand in hers, their shadows stretching behind them under a golden sunset.

Yet here they were; her promises unfulfilled as Gracie lay confined to a hospital bed, far from the joyous days Carrie had once envisioned for them.

Carrie lingered at the doorway, steadying herself for several moments before masking her concerns with a bright smile and stepping inside. “Grandma, are you feeling poorly again?”

“Carrie, my dear!” Gracie greeted her with a strained smile. “I’m just feeling the weight of my years, that’s all. It’s nothing serious.”

Beside Gracie’s bed, Carrie clasped her grandmother’s hand, tears brimming in her eyes. The hand she held was frail, more skeletal than flesh, the skin papery thin. A network of raised veins crisscrossed the back of her hand, punctuated by the telltale marks of numerous needles—a testament to her enduring battles.

Gracie’s eyes, clouded and wistful, met Carrie’s with deep fondness. “Oh, Carrie, don’t weep. You’re grown now. You know life’s fleeting nature. And remember, even in my absence, don’t be afraid. I trust in your strength to face whatever comes.”

“Grandma, I’m going to find the top specialists to help you. And once you’re better, I promise we’ll go on that trip you’ve always wanted,” Carrie declared, her smile wavering as she spoke, caught between comforting Gracie and seeking solace for herself.

Gracie offered a weak nod, a glimmer of hope flickering in her gaze. “Alright, my dear. I’ll hold you to that journey.”

Their heartfelt exchange was gently interrupted by the doctor, who stepped in with a reminder laced with professional concern. “The patient needs to conserve her strength. Ms. Campbell, could we discuss a few things in my office, please?”

With a heavy heart weighed by concerns for Gracie’s well-being, Carrie stood up from her chair, her reluctance clear in her hesitant movements. “Grandma, try to get some good rest. I really need to head off now. Work has been overwhelmingly busy, but I promise to swing by whenever I am free.”

Gracie, her expression softening, gave an understanding nod. “Being busy is part of life. Just make sure you’re also taking care of yourself,” she advised warmly. “The medical staff here are top-notch, so there’s no need for you to worry about me.”

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