Cassie gazed out the hospital waiting room window, watching the light drizzle wet the glass, reflecting the flickering streetlights. The quiet and slightly eerie surroundings felt familiar, part of a routine she had reluctantly accepted. She took a deep breath, steadying herself. For months, she had felt as if her lingering illness was subsiding, almost disappearing. But lately, her body was showing signs of weakness again. Today, she was here to see Dr. Alex, the doctor who had unofficially become her health companion.
The waiting room door opened, and Dr. Alex appeared with the warm smile that always put her at ease. "Cassie, come on in," he said, motioning with his hand.
Cassie stood and followed Dr. Alex into the exam room, which was calm, with clean white walls that gave it a soothing atmosphere. Dr. Alex asked her to sit in the chair across from him, holding a few test results. Cassie watched his expression, hoping to read something from his usually calm face.