Branded a Liar
Dad coughed violently and spat out a mouthful of blood before collapsing stiffly onto the floor.
Rylan jumped in fright.
However, instead of helping, he recoiled in disgust and shrank back. "Ew! Blood! That's so gross! Don't get it on my clothes, Dad!"
…
When Dad woke again, he was lying in a hospital bed.
The doctor said it had been sudden cardiac arrest, brought on by intense emotional distress and years of suppressed strain. If he had been brought in any later, they might not have been able to save him.
Dad opened his eyes and stared at the stark white ceiling, his gaze hollow.