"Let's hope so." I could only cling to the hope that Lorraine's words were true. If anything were to happen to Jonas, I could never forgive myself.
After lying in bed for a day, I felt slightly better and asked the doctor if I could visit Jonas.
Murphy stood at the foot of the bed and held some unsigned documents. "Mr. Joplin, the doctor mentioned your body isn't ready for you to move around yet."
"Can't I even check on my child?" I questioned. Shouldn't the doctor show some understanding?
I ignored Murphy's objections and grabbed the pair of crutches next to me. Jonas' ward was right next to mine.
When I arrived, I saw a small figure curled up in a corner and staring blankly into space.
"Jonas, it's me, Daddy."
I wasn't sure if he could hear me. He seemed despondent, and his little face was scrunched up tightly. I noticed him glance in my direction through the small window on the door.
The moment our eyes met, I waved excitedly. "Jonas!"
He frowned slightly as if debating whether to let me in.
I didn't hesitate to push the door open and said, "Jonas, I'm here to see you."
After waiting a long time and failing to get a response, I prompted him, "Jonas, look at me. Look at Daddy."
"Daddy," Jonas called out. His eyes seemed vacant as he stared behind me as if he were looking at something else.
I held his shoulders and forced him to lift his head. "Jonas, look at me. I'm right here."
Several minutes later, he suddenly gasped, and his eyes turned red.
I panicked. This was the first time Jonas had ever burst into tears in front of me without warning.
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