"She's alive," Kevin said.
Upon hearing those two words, Bradley and Xara both let out relieved sighs.
"But it's not much different from being dead."
Bradley snarled. "Kevin Slade!"
Massaging his nose bridge, Kevin replied hoarsely, "Bradley, getting angry won't help. Thanks to you, Esther's immune system is nearly destroyed, and her condition is dire. Prepare yourself for what's to come."
Puzzled, Xara asked, "Isn't Dr. Foster her doctor? Can't she do something?"
"Dr. Sadler, do you know how many things Esther has had since leaving prison? Bone marrow donation, abortion, liver donation, and now a head injury. I don't know what she endured during this time, but she has many wounds and scars.
"These untreated injuries have led to infections, and she's now dealing with gastritis and nephritis. Thankfully, her immune system hasn't completely collapsed yet. It's all in God's hands."
Bradley slowly released his grip on Kevin. "You mentioned she has gastritis?"
Kevin replied, "Do you know what she went through in prison? Did you ensure she had proper nutrition when you took her away?
"How did she sustain those injuries? You know the answer. Did you consider the risk of infection after she was hurt? Have you thought about the toll your violence took on her?
"Luckily, Felix isn't here. If he knew how you treated Esther, how do you think he'd react?
"If you want Esther to die, then carry on with your violence! Just don't expect us to save her in the future. We won't be able to!"
Xara wiped tears from her eyes' corners and asked, "Dr. Slade, can I visit her?"
"You can't. She's in the ICU. Can she wake up? When will she wake up? It's all uncertain," Kevin said helplessly. "If you truly care for her, look after Felix for her."
"Okay," Xara said, sitting down in silence.
Bradley stood alone, engulfed in desolation.
Kevin gave him a long, wordless look.
Esther was admitted to the ICU, and Agatha stayed by her side while Xara and Steffan took care of the children.
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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: My Husband Wants Me Dead (Esther and Bradley)
don't read at all. horrible story, makes me sick....