Startled from her slumber, Olivia blinked her eyes open, trying to process Roman’s words. She sat up, her mind still clouded with sleep, but a sense of understanding slowly washed over her.

“It’s okay, Roman. I can go to the hospital on my own,” she replied.

“You have important matters to attend to. I’ll handle this. Besides, you coming through for me was more than enough. And I can never thank you enough,” she pulled him in for a hug, her soft fabric squished warm, soft flesh against him.

Roman embraced her back, pulled out of the hug, and nodded.

“Thank you, Olivia. I appreciate your understanding. I’ll be back as soon as I can. Just focus on your mother and take care of yourself.”

A few minutes later, Olivia called the doctor to inform him she was on her way and checked on her mother before she stepped into the shower.

As Olivia prepared herself for the doctor’s visit, she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment at Roman’s absence. She knew that her mother’s condition was paramount, and she needed to be there to support her through this critical phase.

She hailed a cab, and the drive to the hospital seemed like an eternity.

Olivia’s mind was a mix of worry and hope as she stepped into the hospital corridors.

She took a deep breath and reminded herself that she was strong and capable, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Olivia stepped into the doctor’s office; her heart pounded with trepidation. The doctor, a seasoned professional, greeted her with a warm smile and reviewed her mother’s case file. After a thorough examination, he delivered the news she had been desperately waiting for.

“Alright, Olivia,” the doctor said with a. “Your mother’s condition has stabilized, and we have found a suitable donor. Surgery is the next crucial step. Please sign these papers to commence the procedure of flying her out.”

Relief washed over Olivia. The weight of the past night seemed to lift momentarily as she clutched the pen. How funny was this? With one scribble of her pen, a simple movement of the wrist, practiced, nonsensical black lines on a piece of paper, it would set her mother on the path to recovery.

With a steady hand, Olivia scrawled her signature. She felt a renewed sense of relief as she handed the papers back to the doctor. But the battle was not over yet, but this was a significant step forward—a glimmer of light amid the darkness, thanks to Roman.

“Thank you, doctor,” Olivia said. “Please take good care of my mother. I trust in your expertise.”

The doctor nodded. “Rest assured, Olivia. Although I’ll no longer be in charge of her, I know a mate of mine who works at the private hospital, you’re in good hands. They’ll do everything in their power to ensure a successful surgery. Your mother is in capable hands.”

“How can I ever repay you, Dr. Brown?”

He chuckled, “I’m just doing my job. Whenever a patient does better, it means I’m doing my job.”

With a final exchange of reassurances, Olivia left the office, her heart still filled with a mix of relief. She found a quiet corner in the hospital’s bustling waiting area and dialed Avery’s number. After a few rings, her friend finally picked up, sounding apologetic and slightly breathless.

“Hey, Liv, I’m so sorry I couldn’t answer earlier,” Avery’s voice came through the line. “Things have been crazy busy. How’s your mom? Any news?”

Olivia took a deep breath. “The doctor just told me that my mom’s condition has stabilized, and they’ve found a donor. Surgery is imminent, Avery. I can hardly believe it.”

Avery’s voice turned softer, laced with genuine concern. “Liv, that’s amazing news. I’m so happy for you and your family. Please keep me updated, okay?”

“I will, Avery,” Olivia assured her. “And how about you? How are things on your end?”

Avery let out a small sigh. “Well, you know how it is in the entertainment industry. It’s been a whirlwind. But guess what? I’ve landed a gig! It’s just a minor role in a new series, but hey, it’s a foot in the door!”

Olivia’s face lit up. “Avery, that’s fantastic! I’m so proud of you. You’re going to shine. I just know it.”

Avery chuckled, her excitement palpable even over the phone. “Thanks, Liv. I couldn’t have done it without your unwavering support. We’ve been through so much together, and now we’re both chasing our dreams. It’s incredible.”

“You’re right, Avery. We’ve been there for each other through thick and thin. And now, as I navigate through these challenging times with my mom, knowing that you’re pursuing your dreams gives me a sort of renewed sense of hope.”

“Roman huh? He better not break your heart after all this,” Avery chuckled softly.

“I hope not.”

There was a brief silence as the weight of their shared journey settled between them.