The ticking of the sunburst wall clock, the occasional chirping of the birds outside, and the tapping of the doctor's pen filled the entire room. If it's meant to ease the growing tension, then it's not working
The boy decided to end the silence between him and the doctor.
"How much time do I have?" asked the boy.
The doctor stopped tapping his pen. He looked at the boy trying to study him. He expected grief or, at the very least sadness, but found none of it.
"Ahm, you know there are some experimental therapies and drugs that can...", the doctor was conscientious on his words because he is dealing with an eleven-year-old.
"Doctor, please. Don't be scared, you can tell me.", the boy said softly.
"Ok. Ahm, not very long, I'm afraid. Two months, maybe three. The thing is, ahm, the tumor in your brain had grown significantly, and it is now in a state what ahm I would say beyond my powers.", and it was the truth.
The boy shifted his stare on the window as if trying to grasp the weight of the doctor's statement. He felt more relieved than disappointed.
He stood up from his chair, went to the doctor, and hugged him.
"Thank you. We fought a good fight. You did all your best to save me. Thank you.", the boy whispered.
The doctor was caught off guard. Being emotional in front of this kid, however, was something he would not do. He focused his mind somewhere else. All he could think of was a fucking shot of scotch, but he suddenly remembered he gave up alcohol three years ago.
"I'm sorry, Vincent. I would have to excuse myself. Your parents are waiting outside for you.", the doctor said, sounding apologetic.
Vincent let go of the doctor. He readied himself to leave, smiled at the doctor to signal goodbye, and locked the door behind him when he stepped out.
The door burst open, but Thew was ready for anything as he smiled.
