Chapter 2

"Emma, I'm not coming home tonight. Lily has a stomachache, so I'm taking her to the hospital," Jack's voice message came through just as I finished my check-up and was waiting for results in the hallway.

I'd been having severe headaches for the past few days. I had planned to wait for Jack to return from his business trip before going to the hospital, but then I discovered that will.

I kept my face expressionless, suppressing the turmoil inside as I replied with a simple "okay."

Thinking back, it seemed Jack hadn't accompanied me to the hospital since we first started dating. He disliked the smell of antiseptic, finding it irritating, so I stopped asking him to come to avoid making him uncomfortable.

Apparently, he could tolerate it after all.

My head started to throb even more as I desperately tried not to think about him.

The private hospital was efficient, and the doctor called me in to hear the results. Her expression wasn't good.

"Ms. Reed, the CT results aren't very promising," she said, getting straight to the point.

I didn't react much, just staring blankly as I listened.

"There's a tumor in your brain, but we can't determine if it's benign or malignant yet."

"However, if you undergo treatment promptly, there's still a chance for a full recovery."

The doctor chose her words carefully, trying to console me gently.

I found myself smirking, finding it oddly amusing as I propped my chin on my hand.

"Doctor, am I dying?"

The doctor, probably thinking I was in shock, became flustered.

"If it's benign, it shouldn't be a major problem. You should consider follow-up treatment."

My mind was already elsewhere. I waved my hand dismissively.

"I'll think about it.”