****

As the world darkened around him, Richard found clarity in a single thought. He jumped into his car and sped off, pushing the accelerator to the floor.

Upon arriving home, he had a minor accident but luckily escaped with just a scratch. Walking in, he limped, his right foot causing him obvious discomfort.

"Richard, what happened?" Rosella rushed to him, worried.

"It was just an accident, Mom," he reassured.

Roberto's stern voice broke through, joining the conversation as he approached them. "Can you give us a moment?" he asked Rosella, wanting to talk to Richard alone.

"When were you planning to tell me?" Roberto's frustration was evident.

"I'll fix...