A week passed and Nick's condition only worsened. He spent all his free time in bed for the last three days.
AJ and Brian loaded the bus to find Nick sleeping. AJ plopped down. "This is ricidilous. I don't care what the doctor says. This is definitely not the frickin' flu. He would've bounced back by now."
Brian glanced at Nick's ghostly complexion. "I think you're right, Bone."
AJ watched Nick stir restlessly. "There's no way he can be comfortable."
"Maybe he should see a doctor again," Brian suggested.
"Couldn't hurt."
Nick rubbed his eyes. "Hey, guys." He coughed. "Could someone please get me a drink?"
AJ tossed him a bottled water.
"Thanks," he croaked.
Ms.McLean stepped aboard. "Surprise, Alex!"
"Mom!" he exclaimed hugging her tightly. "What are you doing here?"
"I had a free day, so I figured I'd come see my son. How are you?"
"Better than Nick, that's for sure."
She turned to Nick. "Are you sick, sweetie?"
He limply nodded.
She gently placed her hand to his brow. "You're burning up! Have you checked your temperature?"
"No, Ms.McLean."
"Then I will." She sat down. "Brian would you get me a thremother?"
"Sure."
She re-adjusted his blankets. Brian returned, and she slid the object underneath his tongue. "Now don't talk, Nick." She faced her son. "May I use your cell?"
"Of course, Mom."
She dialed out. "Hello, it's Denise. I need you to scheudle an appointment for Nick. He's sick. Okay. Thank you." She hung up. "Nick, a doctor will examine you after the show tomorrow evening." She read his reading. "101*. You better get comfy. Looks like you'll be in bed awhile." She grabbed her purse. "I'll go get you some soup. Maybe that'll make you feel better." Ms.McLean kissed her son. "I'll be right back."
"I don't feel bad for Nick anymore," AJ decided.
"Why not?" Brian asked.
"Simple," AJ said
crossing his arms. "My mommy's spending time with him than
with me."