Beyond the Divorce

Canceled Flight

Feeling disheartened, I entered the gate and walked to the boarding area. In times like this, I wanted a partner to go home with me, as did my parents.

I tried to console myself that the urgent phone call was why he had to leave. I called Ivanna to let her

know where I was. Then I settled into the airport lounge while waiting for boarding.

Matthew had only been to my hometown three times. The first time was the year we graduated. He came

to meet my parents after our relationship became official.

The second time, we wanted to start a business but did not have enough capital to get started. We went to them for help.

The third time was when we mortgaged my parents‘ house to get a loan. After it was approved, he insisted on taking me home to thank my parents.

We did not return home together after that. The reason was always the same–he was busy.

My parents were always understanding, knowing the challenges of starting a company. They said it

required dedication and hard work. The first two years were hectic, working tirelessly.

It started with the two of us and grew. We persevered for four years, then I became pregnant.

I only visited home once, and my parents came to Foswood after I had Ava. We rarely got together,

making one excuse after another.

This time, I’m going back because of a stroke. I felt bad because I had not been a good daughter. I should

have cared for my parents the way they cared for me. What have I done for them?

With each passing minute, I became more overwhelmed. My anxiety level rose, but the flight was repeatedly delayed.

The airport grew more crowded, and the sky grew darker. It was already 8 p.m.

Despite my flight being only four hours long, I had waited seven hours and still hadn’t boarded the plane.

Finally, at 10.40 p.m., the airport made an announcement. They had suspended all flights because of the

impending hurricane.

Upon hearing the announcement, I froze. How could this be?

When I saw the airport personnel leaving, I shakily called my mother. I told her that flights had been stopped while trying to hold back my choking voice.

“Chlo, do not worry,” my mother comforted me. “Your dad is doing much better. According to the doctor, This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

there’s no major concern. Prompt treatment saved him. Don’t worry, he’s recovering. Wait until flights start again.”

“Should I take a train instead? I’m worried about you,” I said to my mom.

“Absolutely not. Things are terrible right now because of the pandemic. If your dad gets better in the

morning, you don’t have to hurry back. Let’s wait for the weather to ease up. Plus, you need to take care of Ava, too!”

“Mom…” My voice choked, and I said, “I’ve been a bad daughter!”

“That’s enough. I understand,” Her voice was firm, “Listen to me. Go home quickly and wait for my call.”

After hanging up, I crouched on the ground, embracing myself as I cried helplessly. I truly regret not staying closer to my parents.

The airport was full of stranded travelers. I could not get a cab because of the airport’s last–minute announcement. More people were taking buses, leading to long lines.

I called Matthew, but his phone was off. It was probably out of battery. He asked me to call him once!

safely landed, so he would not have turned it off.

I stood blankly in the crowd, waiting for it to thin out before leaving. I didn’t want to be constantly bothering Ivanna.

The crowd was eager to leave the airport, so I went with the flow, feeling lost. A few teens bumped into

me recklessly, causing me to fall and drop my bags.

I steadied myself and tried to ignore the pain from the collision. Then I went to pick up my fallen luggage.

As I bent down, a man with a massive suitcase rushed in my direction. When I realized it, it was too late to get out of his way.