Seung gi leaned against the chair as Suzy sat in front of him. Her results were being evaluated in the room next to them as they waited.

“How do you feel?” he asked, trying to break their silence.

“Better” Suzy replied.

He placed his jacket over her shoulders. It wasn’t cold. She didn’t mind it, knowing he offered it as a mean of comfort.

The door opened to reveal the doctor, carrying the ECG and chest X-ray papers.

The doctor took her seat as Suzy reached for his hand. The opal stone changed to a reveal its faint green shards under the new light angle.

“Good afternoon,” she greeted and they returned. She explained that the results were mostly favourable, with ideal lung functions and normal heart rhythms.

“Our major concern at this point is that the tumour is approximately close to the carotid artery, though its small size would likely not pose any danger.” The doctor continued.

Seung gi carefully checked on every aspect, they exchanged more information Suzy couldn’t focus on, a million things going on her mind.

“Doctor Dae Wang believes the surgery will be possible without damage to the blood vessels.” The radiologist assured. Again, Dae Wang recommended performing the surgery as soon as possible.

Being on their own as the doctor left, Seung gi turned to face her, catching the signs of both relief and fear in her eyes.

He let out a heavy breath and his free hand traced her silky hair.

“It’s up to you, love.” He promised. Having forced her this far, he still wanted the final choice to be her own. Preparing himself to accept whatever she believes is right for her, he sank to the floor and placed the hand he didn’t let go of on his heart.

The moment that followed could not go any slower. Her gaze remained fixed on his.

She then looked back at the ring on her finger, giving him a simple, unsure nod. His eyes widened and she shook her head in affirmation once more.

“I’ll do it,” she said, “If I can have more time with you, I’ll do it.”

He rose at once to take her in his arms. His jacket fell from her shoulders when she embraced his neck and buried her face in his arms.

With the window half cracked to let the late winter air in, she gave into her tears. She could feel his wetting her blouse.   

Nine days later was the date she picked to have the operation. Nine mor