Chapter 33: When Hope Trembles
The doctor stepped into the hospital room, his expression grave.
"Jake… your father's condition has worsened significantly. We're doing everything we can, but his chances are down to 10% now."
The air vanished from Jake's lungs.
His body collapsed to his knees, trembling. He couldn't breathe, couldn't think. Marcus and Elena rushed to him, supporting him with shaky hands and tear-filled eyes.
Jake stared blankly at the floor, whispering, "I just got here… I was too late…"
Their mother stood beside the bed, holding her husband's hand, praying under her breath.
---
Meanwhile at the Gym…
Lisa and Jacob arrived at the gym, smiling and waving. Alex and Alya greeted them casually, but there was a heavy silence in the air.
"Something wrong?" Lisa asked, glancing between them.
Alex crossed his arms, looking off to the side. "Jake left a few days ago. Said it was a family emergency."
"Family emergency?" Jacob frowned.
Alya nodded. "He wouldn't tell us what happened. Just said he had to go see his family… and that he'd contact us when he could."
Lisa's smile faded. "Wait. He didn't tell you what happened?"
"No," Alex said. "But I could tell it was serious. He looked like the weight of the world was on him."
Lisa stepped forward. "Then we have to go see him."
Alex shook his head. "Lisa, we don't even know where he is or what's going on. If it's private—"
"He might be dealing with something he can't handle alone!" Lisa insisted. "He's not the type to ask for help. That's exactly why we should go."
Alya hesitated. "You think… something bad happened?"
Lisa nodded. "I know Jake. And I know his pain. Please, Alex. You're his closest friend. Don't let him carry this alone."
Alex looked into her eyes, then nodded reluctantly.
"Alright. Let's go."
He turned to the gym members.
"I need to close the gym early. Family matter for one of us."
To his surprise, several members stood up.
"It's about Jake, isn't it?"
"We're coming too."
"He's done too much for us. We owe him that much."
Alex looked stunned, then deeply moved.
"Alright… let's all go remind Jake who he has behind him."