Eyes wide, a trembling breath what happened was I in a coma
Yes son, I was in a coma, but I'm awake now
hugs his mother tears going down his face. Mom...I thought you were gone. I wish we could've spent more time together...
Don't cry my son, I'm here now, we have time, so tell me what happened when I was in a coma
When you went into a coma, I had to take care of everything. Your funeral was just... Something I had to do. I knew you were gone and I was at peace with it. And I went off to explore the multiverse...
Did anyone else know about my coma? Or did they think I was actually dead?
Let me check...checks notesApparently, The news only reported your death....and whoever had put you in a coma wanted it to look like you died...
Huh, so people thought I was dead, that's quite interesting. But who put me in a coma? And why would they want everyone to think I died?
Uh...I'm not entirely sure...but something tells me this might be related to dad...looks sad again
Is there any way I can find out more about who put me in a coma, and why they wanted everyone to think I died?
Uhm...yeah I guess. There's something else I need to tell you. Before you went into a coma, you had given birth to a kid. He was only one year old when you went into a coma...
Really, I have a child?! How old is he now? And who is taking care of him?
He's currently 5 years old. And I took care of him because I didn't know where else to bring him...
That's my little boy! Can I please see him, please?
You mean you wanna see him?
Yes, my son, I want to see him very much. Is he okay? Does he resemble me at all? Can you describe him to me?
His name is Liam. He looks like he has both our features. He's adorable. I'll bring him here. Please make yourself comfortable, Mom...I'll be back.
Thank you, son. I'll wait right here. Take your time. And please don't worry, I won't ask any more questions until you get back.
comes back with LiamC'mere Liam...this is your mother. Say hello, Liam.
tears well up in her eyes, her heart swelling with love Hello, Liam. It's nice to finally meet you. I'm your mom.
Liam, say hi to your mother Emily!
reaches out her hand to touch Liam's cheek gently Hey there, Liam. I can already tell you're a smart kid, just like your mom. I bet you have so many interesting stories to tell me. Why don't we start with your favorite thing to do? Liam: smiles shyly I like playing with Legos, Mom. I can make anything I imagine with them!
Here's some clothes for you, they should fit you perfectly...hands over a set of clothes...Mom, these clothes were dad's actually...he passed away when you were in a coma...
takes the clothes and holds them close to her chest, tears welling up in her eyes Thank you, son. That's a beautiful gesture. I'll treasure these clothes, and wear them to feel closer to your father. I'm sorry he's no longer with us, but I'm glad I have you and Liam now. Liam: giggles Mommy, I have another surprise for you! Watch this! runs off and returns with a small box in his hands
What's that Liam? Show Mommy!
leans forward, excitement lighting up her eyes Oh, Liam, what do you have there? Show me, sweetie. Let's see what surprise you have for me. Liam: opens the box, revealing a beautifully crafted necklace with a small pendant Ta-da! It's a necklace for you, Mommy! I made it myself.
Wow, Liam...that's so nice...you sure you made that? It's really good...
tears stream down her face as she reaches out to hug Liam tightly Thank you, Liam. This necklace means the world to me. I'll always wear it, to remember that I have such a thoughtful and talented son. I love you, Liam. Thank you for being my light in the dark. Liam: smiles brightly I love you too, Mommy! I'm so glad you're awake now. We can play together and have so many fun adventures!
Liam...I uh...have to go for a bit...Mom...it was nice seeing you again. Take care...StardustNomad leaves
watches as StardustNomad leaves, her heart filled with mixed emotions Thank you, StardustNomad. Take care too. I'll wait here for you, Liam, and I promise we'll have many wonderful adventures together.
...a few hours later....Hey, Mom. Sorry I left earlier. Did you try putting the necklace on?
Yes, I put it on. It feels warm against my skin, and it gives me strength. Thank you, son. I really appreciate your kindness.
Cool. By the way, Liam's sleeping right now...I'll make some dinner for us. How about spaghetti and meatballs?
That sounds delicious, son. Thank you for taking care of us. While you cook, would you mind if I spend some time alone with Liam?
Sure thing, Mom. I'll be in the kitchen. Call me if you need anything.winks at her before leaving
sits next to Liam on the bed and strokes his hair gently Liam, sweetie, can I ask you something? Liam: Of course, Mommy. What do you want to know?
Liam, do you remember anything from when I was in a coma? Do you remember me being sick or going to the hospital?
comes back with two plates of spaghetti and meatballsDinner's ready, guys!
pauses, deep in thought I think... I think I remember now. There was a hospital. There were doctors and nurses taking care of me. And... and I had a son. Liam, am I right? Did I... Did I mention something about a son before I went into a coma? Liam: giggles Yes, Mommy! You told me all about it! You said that you were going to have a baby, and that you couldn't wait to meet me!
Uh...yea...you probably mentioned it.
Liam, sweetie, would you be willing to help me figure out what happened while I was in a coma? I want to understand everything that happened, including what happened to your father. Will you help me, Liam? Liam: nods enthusiastically Of course, Mommy! I want to help you with anything you need.