Page 49 of Cowboy
"However," Dr. Mulroy continues quickly, seeing my distress, "with proper care and treatment, your overall health should improve significantly. And there are options we can discuss regarding fertility, if that's something you want to pursue in the future."
I nod numbly, trying to process everything. "What about... what about diseases? Did they..."
"Your STD panel came back clean," she assures me. "We'll do follow-up tests to be certain, but for now, that's one less thing for you to worry about."
Relief washes over me at this news. At least there's that.
"What happens now?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.
"Now, we start your treatment," Dr. Mulroy says firmly. "I'm going to prescribe a series of vitamins and supplements, as well as a meal plan to help get your nutrition back on track. I'd also like you to come in for weekly check-ups for the next month or so, just to monitor your progress."
I nod, feeling overwhelmed but grateful for the doctor's care. "Thank you," I manage to say.
As we leave the hospital, prescriptions in hand, I feel a mixture of emotions: relief at knowing what I'm dealing with, fear about the long-term effects, and a deep sadness for all that's been taken from me. But as Saoirse's hand slips into mine, I'm reminded of what I still have. I may be battered and bruised, but I'm alive. And I have this precious child to care for.
Ciarán is waiting for us in the parking lot, his face a mask of concern. "How did it go?" he asks gently as he opens the car door for us.
I take a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts. "It was... a lot," I say softly. "I have some health issues to deal with, but Dr. Mulroy says with proper treatment, I should improve."
Ciarán nods, his eyes filled with concern. "Whatever you need, Caoimhe. We'll get through this together."
As we drive home, I lean my head against the window, watching the city pass by. Saoirse dozes in the backseat, exhausted from the long day at the hospital. I think about everything Dr. Mulroy told me, about the long road to recovery ahead of me. It feels overwhelming, but I'm determined to get better, for Saoirse's sake as much as my own.
"Ciarán," I say quietly, not wanting to wake Saoirse. "There's something else that Dr. Mulroy told me."
He glances at me, his expression serious. "What is it?"
I take a deep breath, steeling myself. "The doctor said... she said that because of the abuse and malnutrition, I might not be able to have children in the future." My voice breaks on the last words, the reality of it hitting me all over again.
Ciarán's hand reaches for mine, squeezing it gently. "Caoimhe," he says softly. "You know, that doesn't change anything. You're still you, still strong and amazing. And we'll face whatever comes together, okay?"
I nod, feeling a rush of gratitude for his unwavering support. "Thank you," I whisper.
As we pull up to Ciarán's house, I see a familiar figure waiting on the porch. It's Grá, Bozo's girlfriend and a nurse. She smiles warmly as we approach.
"Hey," she says softly. "I hope it's okay that I'm here. I thought you might want to talk after your appointment."
I feel a wave of relief at her presence. Somehow, having another woman here, especially one with medical knowledge, makes me feel a little less vulnerable.
"That would be nice," I say, managing a small smile.
As we settle inside, Saoirse still sleeping in Ciarán's arms as he carries her to the guest room, I find myself opening up to Grá. I tell her about the doctor's findings, about my fears for the future. She listens with compassion, offering gentle advice and reassurance.
"You're not alone in this, Caoimhe," she says firmly. "We're all here for you, whatever you need."
As the evening wears on, I feel a small spark of hope ignite in my chest. The road ahead won't be easy, but with Ciarán, Saoirse, and friends like Grá by my side, maybe, just maybe, I can find my way back to myself.
As Grá leaves, promising to check in tomorrow, I feel a mixture of exhaustion and relief wash over me. The day has been emotionally draining, but there's a small comfort in knowing that I'm not facing this alone.
Ciarán comes back downstairs after tucking Saoirse in. He sits beside me on the couch, his presence warm and reassuring.
"How are you holding up?" he asks gently.
I take a deep breath, considering the question. "I'm... I'm not sure," I admit. "It's a lot to process. But I think... I think I'm going to be okay. Eventually."
Ciarán nods, his eyes full of understanding. "You will be. You're the strongest person I know, Caoimhe. And I'm here, every step of the way."
We sit in comfortable silence for a while, the events of the day settling around us. Finally, I speak up, voicing a concern that's been nagging at me.
