Today was the day James arrived in Northborough.
Briony’s burn was nearly healed—she could finally drive herself again.
Now, she was behind the wheel of Stella’s car, heading to the airport to pick up James.
Halfway there, her phone rang. It was Stella.
Stella didn’t explain much, only urged her to get back to the hospital as quickly as possible.
A wave of dread crashed over Briony. Her heart dropped, and her eyelid twitched with anxiety.
She texted James, turned the car around, and sped toward the hospital.
As soon as she arrived, Briony rushed straight to Dr. Cedric Clarke’s office.
He handed her a report, and she took it, hands trembling.
Acute leukemia. Advanced stage.
The words hit her like a bolt from the blue. Briony stared numbly at the paper, refusing to believe it.
But the report was right there in her hands.
It took all her strength to find her voice. Looking up at Dr. Clarke, she asked, “Is there a chance for treatment?”
“Treatment is certainly possible,” Dr. Clarke replied, “but your mother’s overall health is quite weak. Radiation or chemotherapy would be extremely tough on her. The best option is a bone marrow transplant.”
“A transplant…” Briony’s lashes fluttered. “Could I be a donor?”
“Family members are often a good match, but nothing is guaranteed,” Dr. Clarke said gently. “You should get tested for compatibility first.”
“All right, I’ll do it—”
“Are you out of your mind?!” Stella cut in, her voice urgent. “Have you forgotten your own situation?”
Briony hadn’t forgotten. “I remember. But I have to save my mom.”
Stella frowned, worry etched across her face. “But you—”
“Star, don’t try to talk me out of this.” Briony’s voice was resolute. “Nothing matters more than saving her.”
Dr. Clarke looked between the two women, sensing there was more going on than they were letting on.
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