Chapter 2025: Really Want To Go With You

After composing herself, Roxanne began Grant's acupuncture treatment. Soon, he calmed, though he didn't dare look at his daughter. His complexion, however, had improved; the waxy pallor was gone, replaced by a less severe yellowing.

"We'll go to the hospital for a checkup today," Roxanne said softly. Without awaiting his response, she left to instruct the housekeeper on travel preparations.

Lucian approached, taking her hand. He smiled and nodded. "You've done everything you could. He's incredibly lucky to have you as a daughter."

A wry smile touched Roxanne's lips. "Maybe. But the unluckiest thing in my life is having a father like him."

After the preparations, they drove Grant to the hospital. The tests were lengthy, but Roxanne wasn't unduly concerned. Madilyn's extended leave allowed Linda to assist, efficiently scheduling and overseeing the examinations.

Two hours later, the results were in. Linda, after conferring with the doctors, reported, "Dr. Jarvis, the various departments concur: the stomach tumor is stable, even shrinking. Metastasis is also stabilizing. The doctors estimate he has three months."

A sorrowful look crossed Linda's face. "I'm so sorry, Dr. Jarvis."

"Three more months," Lucian said, patting Roxanne's shoulder. "Your treatment is working."

"Not bad," Roxanne murmured flatly, her expression unreadable.

Linda, expecting devastation, remained silent, observing their subdued reaction. No further medication was prescribed; the doctors understood Roxanne's treatment was battling against time.

Leaving the hospital, Lucian shared the results with Grant. The news seemed to plunge him into thought, his musings unreadable. Finally, he said, "Lucian, Roxanne, can you take me to the cemetery? I want to visit her."

Roxanne, in the front passenger seat, glanced at him.

"Of course," Lucian replied promptly.

Grant's request gave new meaning to Roxanne's efforts. As they arrived, the sky darkened, and rain began to fall. Roxanne and Lucian watched from the entrance as Grant slowly ascended to Roxanne's mother's grave.

He froze, gazing at his first wife's photograph. After a long moment, he wiped the gravestone with the hem of his shirt, tears streaming down his face. He whispered, "I'm sorry. I'm really sorry. Please take me with you... I really want to leave with you now. Please forgive me..."

Lucian guided Roxanne back to the car. Over an hour later, a drenched Grant emerged, his eyes dull, his soul seemingly left behind at the grave. He remained silent on the drive home.