Ryan was woken by someone gently shaking his shoulders. His eyelids fluttered open, and he saw that it was Janine.
"Hey, sweetie, I'm afraid that visiting hours have ended now, so you're going to have to go home. I checked on Marissa not so long ago, and she still wasn't up to having visitors; otherwise I would have woken you sooner."
"Ok, thanks. I guess I'll see you tomorrow then." Ryan stuttered, still drowsy.
"Ok. Bye"
Ryan smiled faintly at her as he pulled himself up out of the seat, stretching his body and rubbing his neck. Damn, that was not the most comfortable place to fall asleep. He glanced at his watch. Oh crap, I probably should have been home hours ago. Ah well. I guess Sandy and Kirsten will have a good idea where I am.
Ryan slowly walked away, pausing briefly outside Marissa's door. His heart ached; he longed to be in there, with her. Maybe tomorrow, when she's feeling better.
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For the next three days, Ryan spent all of his free time outside of school at the hospital. Each time he went, Janine would go and check on Marissa's condition, and each time Julie would tell her that Marissa wasn't up to seeing Ryan.
Every time Janine returned with the "no" verdict, Ryan could feel his heart breaking a little more. Why won't she see me? If she's well enough to face Julie Cooper-Nichol, Dragon Lady, then she's got to be well enough to see me for two minutes.
And after each enquiry from Janine, Julie would shut the door and omit telling Marissa that Ryan wanted to see her. Everyday, she would tell Marissa that he still hadn't been by to see her. And every time Marissa heard those words, she felt her heart tearing up inside. Does he not care about me anymore? Is this his way of saying its over? Marissa's lip would quiver as she'd fight to keep the tears from streaming down her face as the lump in her throat grew bigger and bigger.
All the while, Julie would sit back and admire her work. She could see the thoughts formulating in Marissa's mind; the growing uncertainties weaving their way into Marissa's heart.
But this isn't enough. Marissa will be discharged from hospital soon, and then there's more of a change that Ryan will be able to get to her and talk to her. I've got to do more so that this relationship will become irreparable.
Sorry it's short, but I've been busy. This is just a scene setter for what happens in the next couple of chapters. Please review!