Feeling the cold rush of liquid into my veins and catching the distinct scent of antiseptic, I instantly knew I was in the hospital.
Maybe the stress over Jade’s situation had weakened me further. I was prone to nosebleeds and fainting spells lately.
No wonder the doctor insisted I needed someone by my side. Without Jade, I probably would have been a goner several times over.
When I finally opened my eyes, I saw Jade had dozed off beside me. I struggled to reach for a glass of water, but a forceful hand beat me to it, handing it to me.
"Awake? How are you feeling?" Vinson’s large hand rested on my forehead, its warmth easing my dizziness.
After gulping down some water, I felt a bit more energized.
Jade suddenly looked up, her hair a mess. “Melanie, why did you faint again? Haven’t you been eating right?”
Her voice was hoarse as a raven. I quickly stopped her from speaking further.
"Enough, if you keep talking, you're going to wreck your throat. I’m fine now, aren’t I? It’s just, you know, the chemotherapy..." I abruptly stopped, realizing Vinson was still there. How could I reveal my condition to him?
Jade awkwardly attempted a smile. "Well, he called, and I panicked... He knows now."
She resignedly bowed her head as if bracing for my scolding.
Turning mechanically to Vinson, I saw sympathy and reluctance in his eyes.
Vinson asked, "Why didn’t you tell me? No wonder you’ve been fainting and bleeding. Melanie, don’t you consider me a friend?"
I was at a loss for words, and the atmosphere grew tense.
Thankfully, the doctor arrived just in time, reiterating my care instructions. He looked me over and shook his head. "I’ve told you, you’re too thin. You have to eat more. I understand it's hard to eat at times, but you should try to eat some to prepare for your next chemotherapy session, okay?"
I nodded weakly, knowing I couldn’t stomach much.
Vinson caught the doctor before he could leave, asking earnestly, "Is the fainting due to the chemotherapy?"
The doctor frowned and nodded, replying, "Your wife went through surgery all by herself. No matter how busy, you should care for your family."
Mistaking the situation, Vinson didn’t correct him but just agreed repeatedly.
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