Chapter 9

George looked at me gravely and said, "Samuel, be honest with me. Are you sick? You didn't look like this when Kay was first admitted." His words caught me off guard, and I hesitated before meeting his gaze. "How do I look now?" Instead of answering, George led me over to a mirror. I stared at my reflection, a surge of shock flooding my eyes. The person in the mirror was gaunt and pale, looking like he might topple over with the slightest breeze. My clothes hung off me like a cloak, far too big for my wasted frame. This hollow shell was me. I touched my face, shaking my head with a bitter smile. "How did I get to this state?" George took a deep breath, his face set with concern. "Were you diagnosed with a rare disease?" I didn't reply, but he pressed on firmly. "Don't even try to deny it. I may not be your doctor, but it wouldn't take much digging to find out the truth." Seeing his determined expression, I said softly, "George, the truth is… I don't have much time left." He stared at me, shocked, then snapped, "What nonsense are you talking about? When I first met you, you were perfectly healthy. Don't say things like that!" The genuine concern in his voice made my chest tighten, and tears sprang to my eyes. I managed a small, resigned smile. George's expression softened as he placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "What's going on, Samuel? Tell me everything." I began to explain, "I have a rare disease. The doctors told me I might have a year left, but honestly, I'm not even sure I'll make it that long." George fell silent for a moment, then patted my shoulder firmly. "Don't worry. I know some top specialists and professors in their field. I'm sure they can help you." His kindness touched me deeply, but my priority now was gathering the money for my sister's surgery. I thanked him and left the hospital. Standing outside, I looked around in a daze, unsure where to go. Since marrying Abigail, it felt like I'd lost touch with the world. Where would I even find a job? Pulling out my phone, I thought about reaching out to friends for any leads. But while I was scrolling through my empty contact list, I realized how isolated I'd become. Back when I'd married Abigail, my closest friends had all opposed it. So, I'd cut ties with them, choosing her over everyone else. Looking back now, I couldn't help but feel bitterly amused by my choices. With no other choice left, I took a deep breath and hesitantly called Sophia, pinning my last hopes on her. "Samuel?" Sophia answered, tinged with a hint of surprise as if she didn't expect I would call her. I apologized softly, "Sorry to bother you, Ms. Smith. I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time." Sophia chuckled, "Of course not. Don't worry about it. Whatever you need, just tell me." After a moment of hesitation, I asked, "Do you know anyone who might be hiring?" "Hiring?" she replied, sounding surprised. "Are you looking for a job?" "Yes," I confirmed. There was a pause on the other end, and she spoke softly, "Why don't you give me your bank account number? I can transfer 30 thousand dollars to you. It's all I've saved, but please, take it." Though her offer moved me deeply, I felt it wasn't right to accept everything she had. We weren't close enough for me to take such a generous sum from her. "That's very kind of you, but I couldn't. It's your hard-earned savings. Keep it for yourself." Sophia pressed on gently, "Samuel if you need the money, why turn down my help?" I smiled, replying, "I can't live my whole life on borrowed money. I need to earn it on my own." She seemed to understand and agreed. "Alright. I respect your choice. But I do know of a place that's hiring. I can ask about the pay and benefits if you're interested." "Thank you, Ms. Smith," I replied gratefully. "If you're free now, could I trouble you to show me around?" Sophia asked hesitatingly, "Are you sure you're well enough? You're still in the hospital. Are you sure this won't affect your health?" I was deeply touched by her concern. I chuckled and said, "Don't worry. I'm alright now." Seeing my determination, Sophia didn't push further. Half an hour later, she arrived at the hospital entrance and opened the car door for me. After I climbed in, she handed me a cushion and said kindly, "Here, make yourself comfortable." Her thoughtfulness struck a painful chord. Even in my best days with Abigail, she'd never shown this level of care for me. Now, she wouldn't even lift a finger to help save my sister. The cold reality of it all weighed on me as I sighed quietly. We soon pulled up in front of a gym. Sophia got out and joined me. Her gaze was filled with concern as she watched my frail movements. "A friend of mine owns this gym," she explained. "I'll make sure he gives you the best pay and benefits if you'd like to work here." I thanked her sincerely. "Thank you, Ms. Smith, for looking out for me." Sophia smiled gently and said, "It's no big deal. We've known each other for so long. It's only right for me to help you." "Thank you again," I said, feeling deeply grateful. Following Sophia inside, I was greeted by a large, friendly man who waved at her with a big smile. "Sophia, you're here! Come on in!" Then, his gaze shifted to me, and he grinned as he reached out his hand. "Hey, there. You must be the friend Sophia told me about, right?"