AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I’ll just need you to go over these and initial your agreement before signing the bottom,” he tells me. “It’s just confirmation that you understand what’s about to happen and the risks that it may pose.”
I read through and sign that I agree with everything.
“This one gives us permission to treat you,” he says, handing over another paper.
I sign it and return it just as the doctor hands over another one.
“This last one asks if you have a last will and testament,” he says. “And if not, would you like to have one made up while you’re here today?”
Okay, so that one hit hard and Viper must have known because he leaned down and kissed the top of my head, giving me his silent strength.
“I don’t think I need one,” I say, signing where it says I don’t want one.
With a nod, Dr. Stone picks up his office phone and hits a number.
“Gemma, would you please have treatment room two prepped and ready for Ms. Williams? We’ll be there shortly.”
Hanging up the phone, he stands and gestures to the door.
“Just follow me, Ms. Williams, and we will get this started.”
I enter the room and instantly relax a bit. It’s not as sterile-looking as you would expect. There’s not even a bed. There are several comfortable-looking chairs around the room, a mini fridge, a bathroom, and a tv. The colors on the walls are a light purple and the windows allow for natural light to enter. It’s welcoming.
“Have a seat right here, Ms. Williams,” Dr. Stone says. “I’m just going to do quick work of your IV. Are you okay with needles?”
I nod and sit in the chair next to the IV stand. The bag hanging on the stand makes me smile. I can’t really see the liquid medication because it’s in a bag with monkeys decorated around it.
Dr. Stone sees what caused me to smile and he returns one.
“We do what we can to bring even the smallest smile to our patients,” he explains.
“I think it’s wonderful,” I say as he tapes down the IV in my arms.
“If you need anything, just press this button,” he tells me, showing me the button on the chair arm. “We’re in this together. Whatever you need, I will be sure you get it. Before you leave here today I will have a prescription of everything you need to manage the side effects. You’re not alone in this Ms. Williams.”
“Thank you,” I whisper, trying to smile but knowing it’s no good.
With a nod, the doctor releases the clamp and starts the drip.
As the treatment begins, I can’t help but feel a sense of vulnerability. The medication drips into my veins, a stark reminder of the battle that rages inside my body. Viper remains by my side, his unwavering presence a source of strength, while my parents sit in the chairs next to the window, watching me the whole time. I can feel their love giving me strength, but I can also feel their pain. Which only increases mine.
Hours pass, and we leave the clinic, the weight of the first treatment settling in my chest. I tried to put on a brave face, but even as we were leaving the clinic, the side effects started to kick in.
We arrive back at Viper’s house, and he helps me up to the guest room. My parents were staying in the rooms in the basement, but Viper insisted, practically begged, that I be closer to him.
So, I agree without hesitation. I want to be closer to him, too. He tucks me into the soft bed, his eyes filled with concern.
“We’ll be downstairs if you need us, baby girl,” Daddy says, kissing the back of my hand.
“We love you, Bitsy,” mom says as they leave.
I love you, too,I want to say but my throat isn’t working.
“Are you okay, Baby?” Viper asks, his voice gentle.
I nod, even though the nausea is already starting to churn in my stomach. “I’ll be fine, Viper,” I manage to say. “Just need some rest.”
He brushes a strand of hair from my forehead and leans down to kiss me softly. Our first kiss and it happens when I feel like throwing up.
