Shattered dreams

Chapter 3: Finding Strength

As the weeks passed, Isabella slowly adjusted to her new reality. Miguel remained in a coma, but she refused to give up hope. Every day after school, she would sit by his bedside, talking to him about her day and their shared memories. "Kuya, remember when we used to play in the garden? Those were the best days," she would say, hoping her voice would reach him.

One afternoon, habang nagbabasa siya ng libro sa tabi ni Miguel, her father entered the room. "Isabella, can we talk?" he asked gently.

"Of course, Dad," she replied, setting the book aside.

"I know this has been incredibly hard on you," he began, his voice filled with emotion. "Your mother and I have been so focused on Miguel that we haven't been there for you as much as we should have."

"It's okay, Dad. I understand," Isabella said, though she felt a pang of sadness.

"No, it's not okay," he insisted. "You've been carrying a heavy burden, and we want to help you. We've decided to hire a tutor to help you catch up with your studies, and we want you to take some time off from school if you need it."

Isabella felt a wave of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Dad. I think a break would really help."

With her parents' support, Isabella took a short leave from school. She spent her days at the hospital and her evenings at home, catching up on her studies with the help of her new tutor. The pressure began to lift, and she found herself slowly regaining her strength.

One evening, habang nag-aaral siya sa kanyang kwarto, she received a text from Anna. "Hey, Isa! There's a charity event at school next week. I think it would be good for you to come. It might help take your mind off things."

Isabella hesitated. She hadn't been to any social events since Miguel's accident. But she knew Anna was right. "Okay, I'll be there," she replied.

The night of the event, Isabella felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. As she entered the school gymnasium, she was greeted by her classmates and teachers. "Isabella! It's so good to see you!" they exclaimed.

For the first time in weeks, Isabella felt a sense of normalcy. She laughed and chatted with her friends, enjoying the evening. It was a small step, but it reminded her that life could still hold moments of joy, even in the midst of hardship.

As the event drew to a close, Anna pulled her aside. "I'm so proud of you, Isa. You're stronger than you know."

"Thank you, Anna," Isabella said, tears welling up in her eyes. "I couldn't have done this without you."

That night, as she lay in bed, Isabella reflected on the journey she had been on. She realized that strength wasn't about being perfect or handling everything on her own. It was about accepting help, finding moments of happiness, and never losing hope.