Chapter 7
496words
And would Nolan even believe me? Or would he think I was spinning tales to sabotage his perfect new life?
I returned to find Owen sleeping. His once rosy cheeks had turned ashen from the chemo, and patches of his hair had begun falling out. My heart splintered.
"Mommy's right here, baby," I whispered, tears streaming down my face. "Mommy will save you, whatever it takes."
Just then, my phone vibrated. It was the hospital's number.
"Ms. Chloe, we have news," the doctor said. "The bone marrow registry has found a potential match, with about 60% compatibility. Not ideal, but viable if we have no better options."
My heart leapt. "Who is it? Where are they?"
"It's an anonymous donor," the doctor replied. "We're reaching out to arrange additional testing."
An anonymous donor? Who would do this for a stranger?
Whoever they were, this was a lifeline. I clutched Owen's tiny hand, praying: Please let this work. Please let my baby survive.
A week later, the hospital confirmed the anonymous donor's marrow was usable for transplantation. Though not a perfect match, with no better options in sight, the doctor urged us to proceed with surgery immediately.
"The procedure carries risks, but doing nothing is far more dangerous," the doctor explained. "Owen's condition is worsening. We're out of time."
I nodded, my emotions a storm of hope and terror. This was Owen's shot, but also a desperate gamble. If it failed... I couldn't even let myself think about it.
"Mommy, I'll be all better after this, right?" Owen asked, his voice barely audible.
"Yes, sweetheart," I choked back tears as I kissed his forehead. "Mommy promises."
The day before surgery, Nolan appeared without warning. As always, he was perfectly dressed, his face unreadable, his eyes cold and distant.
"Surgery's tomorrow?" he asked bluntly, skipping any greeting.
I nodded. "Yes, the doctor says we're out of time."
Nolan approached Owen's bed, studying the sleeping child. His face remained impassive, as though he were examining a stranger.
"Any idea who the anonymous donor is?" he asked abruptly.
I shook my head. "The hospital says that information is confidential."
Nolan was quiet for a moment, then said, "I'll cover the surgery costs."
"You've done enough already," I said quietly. "I don't want to be more indebted to you."
"This isn't about you," Nolan said flatly. "It's for the kid. Children shouldn't suffer for adults' mistakes."
His tone was frigid, devoid of any warmth, but at least he was helping Owen. I nodded gratefully, words failing me.
"Thank you," I finally managed, barely above a whisper.
Nolan didn't acknowledge my thanks, simply turned and walked out.
He vanished down the corridor, leaving me alone with my tangled emotions.
