"Thanks," I said, taking the coffee from Blair. The warmth of the cup slightly burned my palm, but I ignored it.
I looked up at her, about to ask why she had called me here. Before I could speak, she flashed a charming smile and asked, "What have you been up to? It's been a while since I last heard from you."
I frowned slightly. Her sudden concern didn't sit right with me. It felt like she had an ulterior motive. I had already turned her down before, but it seemed like she still hadn't let it go. That was troubling.
Taking a deep breath, I looked at her seriously and said, "Ms. Shepherd, if you have something to say, just say it. Otherwise, I think we're both wasting our time here."
"What?" Blair's eyes widened in surprise as she looked at me. She hesitated for a moment before asking, "Do you really think sitting here and chatting with me is a waste of time?"
Seeing the hurt in Blair's eyes, I realized my words might have been too harsh. I waved my hand dismissively and explained softly, "That's not what I meant. You know I don't have much time left."
Talking about my illness never fazed me. It was something I couldn't change, so I had to accept it. Since it was beyond my control, there was no point in fighting it. Accepting it made it a little easier for me to get through each day.
Blair's eyes grew even more sorrowful at my words.
"I'll find a way to help you with your illness," she said, her voice full of concern. "I don't believe that, with so many great doctors in the world, none of them can cure a small illness like yours."
I gave a faint smile, politely but firmly turning her down. "No need, Ms. Shepherd. Thank you for your kindness. Everyone has their own path, and mine is what it is. If it's meant to be, then it will be."
Blair anxiously tried to persuade me when she saw I had no will to fight for my life. "You can't give up so easily," she pleaded. "There are so many people who care about you. You can't just leave them behind."
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