Chapter 26: Starting Treatment

The antiseptic smell of the hospital corridor assaulted Olivia's senses as she walked alongside Sophia, their footsteps echoing in the sterile hallway. The weight of anticipation hung heavy in the air, each step bringing them closer to the oncology ward where Olivia's treatment would begin. "You okay?" Sophia asked, giving Olivia's hand a gentle squeeze. Olivia managed a weak smile, her stomach churning with a mixture of fear and determination. "As okay as I can be, I guess. Thanks for being here, Soph." They reached the treatment room, a space that tried desperately to be cheerful with its pastel walls and motivational posters but failed to mask its clinical purpose. Nurse Martinez, a kind-faced woman with salt-and-pepper hair, greeted them with a warm smile. "Good morning, Olivia. Are you ready to get started?" Olivia nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "As ready as I'll ever be." As Nurse Martinez began to prep the IV, Olivia's gaze wandered to the other patients in the