Still unable to believe that my grandfather was in that situation, I kept repeating to myself how absurd it all seemed to me. It was only two weeks ago that I had spoken to him, and on that occasion he told me that he was feeling better, that he would soon come to visit me and that we would go together to the Kanda Myojin temple to pray for a year full of prosperity and health. How could he now be in the hospital, struggling between life and death? Was it a punishment from the gods for something we had done wrong, or simply a cruel coincidence of life? Whatever the reason, it seemed terribly unfair.
Arriving at the hospital, I hurried through the corridors to find my aunt. When I saw her, her face was broken, her eyes red and swollen from crying. I froze. I didn't know what to do or what to say. Having always been a lonely person, consolation was not my strong suit. I wondered if I could say something to ease her pain, but found no words.
My aunt noticed my presence and, without hesitation, ran to me. She clung tightly to my coat and began to cry inconsolably.
—My father is about to die and I can't do anything to help him," she sobbed. Why is life so unfair? I don't understand how such a good person can be about to go. Why does it have to be like this? Why?
I didn't know how to answer her. I could only put my arms around her, trying to show her that I was there to support her.
While all this was going on, a doctor approached us.
—Mr. Hiroshi Kiryuu wants to see you urgently," he announced in a solemn voice.
My aunt stopped crying immediately. She hastily wiped away her tears and, in a trembling voice, said:
—I think we'd better not keep him waiting.
I looked at her and nodded.
—You're right. After all, what Grandpa hates most is to be kept waiting. let's go.
When we got to the room where my grandfather was, he looked at us with a slight smile.
—I'm glad you're here," he said in a muffled voice. I didn't think anyone was coming.... It would have been very depressing and disappointing to die alone.
—Don't say that, Dad," my aunt replied through her tears. There must be some way to save you. I refuse to let you go.
—I think it's too late now, my little girl," he whispered. But you have nothing to worry about. This disease was always beyond my control. I traveled to many hospitals abroad, but none found a cure... only treatments to prolong the inevitable.
My aunt grabbed his hand in desperation.
—I know, Father... but I still need you. I don't know what I'll do without you, without your support... without you scolding me when I make mistakes.
My grandfather smiled tenderly.
—I would like to continue taking care of you, my daughter, but I don't have much time left. The only thing I can do is to ask Haruki to take care of you for me. I know that at first glance he may seem like a cold and unfeeling boy, but behind that shell there is a noble and kind heart. Unfortunately, life circumstances have made him a lonely and reserved boy. But deep down he is a very good person.
I looked at him with surprise.
—I'm still here, grandfather.
He smiled faintly.
—I know, Haruki.... But after all, I've described you perfectly, don't you think?