Chapter Twenty-Three
Jerome looked over the release form and prescriptions the doctor had given him. After eight days in the hospital, he was finally leaving. He wished he was going home to Illinois, but one of his doctors had asked him to hang around for a few weeks. The doctor wanted to see Jerome a few more times before he went back to the Midwest.
Jerome hadn’t seen his sons since Joi ran out of the hospital yesterday, so he wasn’t sure if they’d come to pick him up. He tried to explain why he never mentioned Joi, but Jerome Jr.’s temper had escalated, and the attending nurse suggested that everyone leave.
He checked his watch and picked up his cell phone. While he waited for someone to show, he wanted to make sure Melanie had everything under control back at the office. Future Ballers had come too far for it to fall to pieces. Although Jerome had planned on going back to work full-time in February, he had given his team specific assignments to help move his special program forward.
As Jerome wrapped up his call with Melanie, Reggie and Joshua walked into the room. Jerome was glad to see them.
“Well,” Reggie said, “the doc says you’re clear. We just need to wait for the nurse and the wheelchair.”
Joshua helped Jerome off the bed and into the recliner.
While Joshua tied Jerome’s shoe laces, Reggie made sure all his clothes and toiletries were packed. “This thing with Taylor and Joi could’ve played out better,” he mentioned as he searched the room, “but I pray God will keep you and Mom together.”
“They will,” Joshua noted. “Have you spoken to Joi, Pop?”
“Yes, and once things calm down, I’ll plan an official meeting between her and the family,” Jerome responded as Joshua tied his laces. Jerome felt helpless. Renee should’ve been there taking care of him and making him feel strong. He had called her twice before noon, but she didn’t answer. Jerome wondered if she was ignoring his calls on purpose.
As he waited to be escorted out of the hospital, Jerome sat with his sons in silence, positive they were all praying for the same thing—that Renee hadn’t left Jerome for good.