Chapter 23: Claire's point of view

The days in hospital went as fast as the nights dragged, it felt weirdly like I've been here forever and just arrived at the same time. Through the days, I had family visiting almost constantly. My parents had been upset at the idea of leaving but had finally agreed to return home once I was discharged. I understood there need to see me home and I was glad to be able to hide the chemo from them. The worst part of cancer is watching your family surfier around you.

"Hey," I called to Shane and Eve as they walked over. I received hugs from both of them before the small talk began. It was nice to talk about normal things, not just me and how ill I was. I couldn't help but feel guilty. It was the worse part of being sick and it was killing me to watch. I hated to see my family hurting, especially it was me that did it. Everyone said they were glad to help but I still hated it. Seeing Shane was worse, my enteric and enthusiastic husband was reduced to nothing but a worn out and exhausted shell. It was nice to see a glimpse of the old Shane after how much he'd been struggling since I got sick. Watching him explained his plans of self-improvement with great excitement, he was animated in his gestures. Seeing hope shining in his eyes. There was nothing more beautiful than seeing your loved one full of hope and optimism. I just hoped it could last.

Before long, Mum and Dad arrived. I was surprised at how easily Shane left without a single sarcastic comment. I smiled, realising he was on his best behaviour for me. Fear feels me as I wonder what they will say. Are they mad? Are they going to refuse to leave?

I hug Mum close as Dad sat on the chair next to the bed. Mum stroked my hair which comforted me. "Well, Claire" My dad started "we understand your reasoning and home isn't that far. So if you really want us to, we can go home". I stared, I guess I won then. I was going to miss them, but I was glad they would be out of Morganville. The last thing I wanted was them to be in danger. Also, I wanted my husband to be able to look after me. And their odd relationship with Shane made that difficult. I couldn't be a referee for arguments or tag-teaming my Dad and Shane. Plus, my new house was not big. It was big enough for me and Shane but it got crowded easily. Especially with Eve and Michael coming round most days.

I told them the good news, or bad news depending on the viewpoint. I agreed they could stay until I'm home and settled. I explained my fears of starting chemo and they listened. They did not judge or try to fix. They just listen.

A few hours later, an excited Shane returned. My parents went to leave but I called them back. Happily, we sat and chatted for a few hours. My parents even gave Shane a lift home that night. All promising to see me early tomorrow, ready to take me home. I was incredibly excited to go home, to sleep in my own bed, to wake up next to Shane, to pick my own mealtime and to just live as normal. Yet, I was terrified to start chemo.

I try to ignore the fear and excitement as i settle into my final night of the hospital stay.

DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN MORGANVILLE

I hope you enjoyed this chapter, sorry its a shorter one. All feedback and ideas are welcome

Thankyou