The sound of my oxygen machine rang in my ears as I temporarily regained my consciousness. I went out again, surely I
thought that would be my last breath but just like yesterday, I am still..here.
I let out a deep sigh as try to remember yesterday's events. "My birthday.." I said in a low and slow manner, 'Yesterday was my birthday. Just like..." I stopped myself when I came to realize, "That was not just like back then." My eyes darted around the room, finally noticing the many cards and teddy bears and balloons... and to my right of me, a picture of me and my family, all of my family.
A low hum was all sound that I could as I smiled to myself.
"For you mom, you remember this day? I don't know if you still remember but you really pulled it all together to make this photo work." My son, Shinachiku, spoke. "One of my favorite memories together actually. You remember, right?"
"Of course, I remember, I could never forget the day I pulled everyone out of bed and rushed to get to the appointment because everybody overslept. I remember like it was yesterday that I carried all three of you in one arm while yelling and pulling at your father to follow." I could hardly contain my laughter as I recalled that day. "I think it's one of my favorites as well."
Hanami took hold of one of my hands and looked me straight in the eyes. "Mom, I don't know how much longer we have together, I mean, you are pretty up there in age," We both laughed at the light-hearted joke. "But, I want you to know that I love you and appreciate everything you did. I know, back when dad died, it was rocky between us, but I believe it somehow brought us closer together. You will...always be close to my heart for as long as I live, Ok?
"Mother," Arashi held onto my hand as he spoke. "I know I was really young back then but I'm really glad, even after father's death, you found joy again. I.."
I could see him try to hold back his tears. " Oh, Arashi-chan.."
"I know how hard it was..to look after us and everything but...I want you...I want you to know that I love you and thank you for staying strong for us."
"Arashi-chan...Hanami-chan, you guys are going to make me cry." I choked on my own tears as I continued. "You guys, all three of you, were the strong ones. You inspired me to go back into the field. You, my children, believed in me when I didn't. Thank you because without you three by my side, I don't think I would have made it out of that hell hole. You were my motivation up until the very end. I love you guys." By this point, a stream of tears flowed down everyone's faces. After talking for a few more minutes, it was time for everyone to leave as visiting hours were over.
"Happy birthday, Mom. Love you." Hanami and the other said their goodbyes and left.
My children...the light of my life, I love you, but...I think it's about time...
I smiled to myself as I felt myself slipping out of consciousness.
It's time I go on home.
I awoke to birds flying and chirping peacefully around me. I slowly sat up taking in the scenery for myself once again.
"So beautiful..." I said still in awe.
The atmosphere still felt... light. Like I had all of my worries just gone. Just like how I remember it all those years ago. I was surrounded by fluffy pure white clouds and a breathtakingly bright baby blue sky. I got up to my feet and took a few steps forward.
"Even though it was brief, I've missed this place..."
"Watching you feels like the first you visited me here.?"
I froze in place after hearing that familiar voice. That bright and cheery voice. My husband's voice. I quickly turned around and instead of crying, I smiled. It was my loving husband Naruto five feet away from me. I dashed into my husband's arms, squeezing him like never before.
"I've missed you, my love," I whispered.
"I've missed you too..." He said and embraced me like never before.
This was it, my wish. It has been granted.
The end