I had not been asleep for long when the phone rang. It was Mrs. Bennett, Hannah’s mother. I was surprised to hear her voice say, “William Davis?” as she never had any use for me. Also, I had broken up with Hannah earlier that day.
“This is William Davis. Is this Hannah’s mother?”
“Yes it is. Hannah attempted suicide. They pumped her stomach, but she’s still in a coma. I knew no good would come of your relationship.”
“What hospital is she in? I’ll be right over.”
“Don’t make things worse for her. I know you broke up with her today.”
“I still love her like a sister. I won’t lead her to believe we’re getting back together, but I would like to let her know I care.”
“A lot of good that would do. She’s not conscious, and may never wake up.”
“If you don’t want me to see her, why did you call me? There’s a possibility she will respond to my voice.”
“You give yourself too much credit. I’m calling because there’s nothing that can be done and I wanted you to know that you destroyed the life of a perfectly good girl.”
“I’m sorry I hurt her feelings, but she must have already have been suffering if she tried to take her life.”
“So you don’t take responsibility?”
“Only for hurting her feelings. I didn’t cause her to do what she did. I couldn’t have stopped her. And I couldn’t control her. I’m not to blame for what she chose to do. But if there is anything I can do to make the situation better, let me know.”
“You bastard.” She hung up.
The next day I consulted a social worker about the situation. The social worker, Alice, said it would be best to honor the wishes of Hannah’s family. Even if Mrs. Bennett did want me there, it would probably not be good for Hannah’s recovery. I worked through my feelings of guilt with Alice, and am still working with her. Even so, I don’t know if I’ll ever get into another relationship.
I didn’t hear from Hannah or her family again. A year and a half later, someone sent me a printed envelope with no return address. In the envelope was a newspaper clipping announcing Hannah’s wedding to the owner of a successful restaurant. I’ve never felt so relieved.
LZ Short Stories 