Page 88 of Bubbles at the Beach House Hotel

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At home, I asked Vaughnhow Robbie had taken the news that his beloved “grandfather” was in the hospital.

“He was very worried, which is why I think it might be comforting for Robbie to see Randolph.”

“And to understand how important it is for family members to support one another,” I added.

“That, too,” said Vaughn. “I’m going to relax here for a while. I might even take a swim. At the hospital, the waiting is really hard. Stephanie didn’t relax until she saw Randolph following the surgery.”

“How is he?” I asked.

“Awake and alert and annoyed he has to stay in the hospital. But it’s the best thing for him. They need to make sure there are no infections or side effects.”

“Okay, I’ll take Robbie to the hospital and plan something for dinner. Would you grill fish if I picked up some from the grocery store?”

“Sure,” said Vaughn.

I knocked on Robbie’s door. At his reply, I opened it. Robbie was stretched across his bed, cuddling and playing with Cindy.

“Ready to go see Grandpa Willis?” I asked him.

“Do I have to go? I can Facetime him instead,” said Robbie.

I sat down on the edge of the bed. “It’ll make Grandpa Willis very glad to see you. When someone you love is sick, it helps to have those who care about him show their support. We won’t stay long, but we will try to see him in person.”

“Is Grandpa Willis going to die? Is that why we have to go to the hospital?” Robbie’s eyes filled.

I put an arm around him. “Grandpa Willis is fine from the surgery. But one day, he will die as part of living. I don’t believe you have to worry about that now.”

“I was very sad when Trudy died. Remember, Mom?”

“Yes, I do. We all still miss her. She was a wonderful dog. We remember many happy times with her. That’s why it’s important to make as many memories and enjoy one another as much as we can.”

“I love Grandpa Willis,” said Robbie, staring out the window thoughtfully.

“I know. That’s why we’re going to do this,” I said, rising.

“Okay,” said Robbie, getting off his bed.

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As we drove to thehospital, I thought about Robbie as a toddler when we first brought him into the family. He’d been a fussy, difficult child who hadn’t known boundaries. But after being with Vaughn and me and learning what was expected of him, he became a delightful little boy. Even now, approaching his teens, he was a very kind person, thoughtful of others.

We went inside the hospital and were directed to Randolph’s room in the cardiac section.

When we walked into Randolph’s room, and I saw how Randolph’s face lit with pleasure at the sight of us, I knew I was right to push Robbie into coming here.

Robbie and Randolph hugged, and then Robbie asked him all about his surgery.

After Randolph had explained the basics of pacemakers and how his had needed new batteries, Robbie was quiet for so long that Randolph and I exchanged glances.

“I think I want to be a heart surgeon when I grow up,” said Robbie very matter-of-factly. Randolph and I smiled at one another.

“You’ll make a great doctor, Robbie. I’m sure of it,” said Randolph. “Thanks so much for coming to see me. I’m going home tomorrow and will be ready for all the holiday celebrations.”

“Mom says you’re not going to die yet,” said Robbie.

Randolph chuckled. “That’s a relief to hear.”