Chapter 2

“Lincoln, based on the results, it’s clear you have cancer,” Nathan, my trusted friend, said as he glanced at my medical file.

“No… that’s impossible…” Emily gasped, covering her mouth in shock.

“Nathan, you’re Lincoln’s best friend. Please, you have to do whatever it takes to save him!” Emily pleaded.

“Thankfully, it was caught early,” Nathan replied. “There’s still hope, but the treatment will be expensive. You’ll need to prepare yourselves.”

“Even if it costs us everything, I’ll make sure Lincoln gets the care he needs,” Emily said firmly, her voice filled with determination.

The scene felt eerily familiar.

This was exactly what had happened before. Nathan, sitting at his desk, delivering his grim diagnosis. Emily standing by my side, her unwavering support bringing me to tears.

Last time, I had been overwhelmed with gratitude. I had handed Emily the bank card that held all my life savings, trusting her completely.

But this time, things were different.

The memories of that night—of their betrayal—echoed in my mind.

Nathan’s voice pulled me back to the present. “Lincoln, are you okay? You seem a bit shaken. Don’t worry, with treatment, your chances of recovery are good. For now, Emily can take care of the initial payment.”

I stood up abruptly.

“I’m not paying a dime,” I said flatly.

“What are you talking about?” Emily grabbed my arm. “Lincoln, are you crazy? This is your life we’re talking about!”

Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself and patted her hand gently.

“I’m not refusing treatment,” I said calmly. “But all our savings are in fixed-term accounts. I can’t withdraw them immediately. I’ll need to speak to the bank tomorrow.”

Emily’s eyes flickered, and she exchanged a quick glance with Nathan.

“Fine,” she said after a pause. “We’ll wait for you to sort it out.”

“Just don’t take too long,” Nathan added with a reassuring smile. “Time is of the essence, after all.”

I nodded, suppressing the storm of emotions brewing inside me.