Chapter 3
Eric hung up the phone and immediately called the airport to get the next available flight to Chicago. Annie got everyone in the living room for a family meeting. So the family is sitting down waiting for Annie to say something. "What's wrong mom? asked Kevin. "We have to wait for Eric to get off the phone" replied Annie. There was a long silence as they waited for Eric to get off the phone and join them.
A few moments felt like hours as they all sat in the living room. Eric finally got off the phone and that is when the news really hit him. Eric walked in to the living room and stood by Annie. The room was quiet when finally Eric started to talk. " We just got a call from a hospital in Chicago. Ruthie was in an accident." said Eric.
"Oh my god" Lucy said quietly. "Is she okay? What happened?" asked Simon. "What kind of accident? What info did they give you?" asked Kevin. Annie and Eric both felt overwhelmed with all the questions being asked at once. "Everyone please one at a time" replied Eric. Annie sat on the couch crying. "We weren't told much. Just that she was in an accident and that she is in the hospital." replied Eric.
Finally Annie spoke " Me and your dad are going to Chicago to see her" said Annie. "We're coming with you mom and dad" replied Kevin. " No, we need you all to stay here. Someone has to take care of the house and the boys. But we will call as soon as we find out more. I promise" replied Annie "What about Matt and Mary? Shouldn't someone call them and tell them" asked Simon. "I'll call them" offered Lucy. "Thank you Lucy. We will be leaving for the airport first thing tomorrow morning" replied Eric.