Chapter 6 - Page 82 - Rhasha's Bed

   Jim continued to go to the hospital every day. He prayed for each of the patients and talked to them, one by one. Even though Rhasha was out of the hospital, Jim visited her at her house every morning and evening. He prayed for her and talked to her. Every day, he took food to her and spoon-fed her until she began spitting it out.

   The first thing he always said was, “Rhasha, you have such pretty eyes.” He held her hand and sang to her. Every night he went to sleep in a chair beside her bed, and every morning he woke up to find Rhasha already awake and watching him. He’d kiss her on the cheek and say, “Good morning, sunshine.”

   Even though Rhasha couldn’t talk, with effort, she could make grunting sounds. Jim could tell she loved the attention he gave her. She liked hearing him say he loved her as he brushed her hair. She liked falling asleep every night to the sound of Jim’s singing, knowing he would be there when she woke up. Sensing that Rhasha was becoming too attached to him, he decided one evening not to go to her house. He thought it would be better for Rhasha if she started depending on her parents more.

   Thamish didn’t agree when Jim told him his idea. “I understand what you’re saying, Jim,” he replied, “but I think Rhasha will grieve deeply if you stop coming over.”

   “Let’s try this tonight,” Jim said. “If there are any problems, let me know.”

End of chapter six