Over the years, I’ve become cautious around people because of my status, but looking at Nova, there’s a sense of familiarity that sets me at ease.
“Thank you for being here,” I mention.
“Of course,” she whispers, looking a little uncomfortable.
Yeah, she might be all grown up, but she still seems to be shy, which I find endearing.
Hearing Rachel coming down the stairs, I glance over my shoulder and watch her walk toward us.
She sets a folder down on the island, then says, “Everything’s in there.”
Pulling the folder closer, I open it and begin to read through all the documents. When I look at the scans and reports, a fist grips my heart in an unforgiving hold.
Seeing the actual growth in Rachel’s brain makes it all terrifyingly real. In one of my movies,Unhinged Minds, I played a CSI agent who was dying of glioblastoma, so I know enough about the illness to understand what the reports are telling me.
Fuck, it’s bad.
Again, my mind rebels against the thought of losing Rachel, and I search through all the documents for any sign of hope.
Rachel places her hand on my shoulder, and her tone is soft as she says, “I don’t think seeing more doctors will make any difference.”
I shake my head hard while my eyes snap to her face. “I’m not giving up, Rach.”
There’s a knock at the door, and Sylvia calls out, “Easton?”
“In the kitchen,” I reply.
My manager comes rushing in and makes a beeline for my sister. I watch as they hug each other, which makes Rachel cry again.
“I’m so sorry, Rach,” Sylvia says before pulling back. “I found a specialist in tissue pathology and diagnostic oncology at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Australia who’s had success with someglioblastoma cases. I’ve reached out to his office, and as soon as I hear back from them, I’ll let you know.”
As Sylvia pats my shoulder, I ask, “Who’s the doctor?”
“Professor Anthony Fox,” she answers. “One of his patients has been cancer-free for two years.”
Hope soars in my chest. “I don’t care how much it costs. I want him to look at Rachel’s case as soon as possible.”
Sylvia glances at her wristwatch. “I’ll give them a call once their offices open. It’s only four a.m. in Sydney.” Her attention turns to Nova, and moving closer, she holds out her hand. “Sylvia Sloane. I’m Easton’s manager.”
“Hi,” Nova replies, looking awkward while she shakes Sylvia’s hand. “I’m Nova Allen, Rachel’s best friend.”
“Nice to meet you,” Sylvia says. “Are you from Verona?”
Nova nods and starts to fidget with her empty coffee mug. “Yes. I’ve known Rachel and Easton my whole life.”
Sylvia smiles at Rachel. “You have a whole team of people who love you and will stand by you.”
Rachel only nods, her face way too fucking pale.
I can kick myself for not asking sooner. “How do you feel, Rach?”
She lifts a trembling hand and presses her fingertips to her temple. “I have a headache that’s making me feel nauseated. I need to eat a slice of toast before taking my meds.”
“I’ll prepare it for you.” Nova jumps up from her stool. “Anyone else hungry?”
I can’t think about food right now, so I shake my head. “I’m good.”
“I ate on the flight home,” Sylvia replies.
