The Waiting

The hospital waiting room was filled with somber faces in clusters of family members. There could be overheard a soft murmur of conversation and muffled tears. Stephen was in the sixth hour of a complicated heart transplant surgery.

Stephen's father stood near the door, hands tucked inside his jean pocket. Tension lines furrowed his browline and he exhaled as though he'd been holding the day's breath inside his lungs.

Gramma sat on the corner chair holding her handkerchief. Her eyes were swollen. Stephen was her only grandson and the first grandchild. Mom handed her a water bottle and put her hand on her shoulder.

Even the preacher was waiting. His head bowed and he said a silent prayer. The door to the hallway opened and the surgeon entered the waiting room. He was smiling as he approached Stephen's Dad. The relief was palpable and soon the surgeon was surrounded by smiling family members and friends.

"The surgery was a success and Stephen is resting in recovery. He's asking to see you and his Mom."

Thank you for reading 📚 ❤️

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