Death By A Thousand Cuts.

At the hospital.

I was in the backseat of Joe's car with Joe sitting next to me when the car came to a stop. We had reached the hospital. It was one of the best private hospitals and was active at all times.

We made our way to the room where dad was.

"Hey, Happy Birthday, sweetie.", my dad said as we entered.

I quickly went near him and gave him a hug. It was around three am.

"How did you get hurt?"

"Old man slipped and fell down the stairs."

"Does mom know?"

"Not until now."

"Where were you? Where is she?"

"She is home. I was out for some work."

I sat down next to Joe on the chair next to Dad's bed. Suddenly I felt very old. I saw the wrinkles on the face of my once young father. And I could feel a lump in my throat.

"I will be right back." I said and went out.

As I closed the door I saw my father asking something to Joe.

I called mom. I have to tell her.

The call lasted for ten minutes. I told her where I was and told her everything.

After I cut my phone I breathed in. Deeply. Consoled myself. I am only thirty. I consoled myself. My parents aren't old yet.