She kissed the scars on his skin.

Chapter 30

We arrive back in San Diego bang on time. I can't wait to see Lauren. I know something isn't right. I haven't been able to get hold of her in days and although I've spoken to Danielle a couple of times who told me she's been ill, I know deep down it's something worse. I know she's got cancer. I can feel it. I've been frantic the last few days and now I'm standing impatiently waiting for my luggage. I'm half tempted to ask the guys to get my stuff and go now but I'm trying to hold it together. Finally my suitcase appears and I grab it and run. I jump into the first cab I see and ask him to take me to the hospital where she had her tests done.
I grab my bags out of the cab and hand the driver his fare. I run into the hospital and ask if they have a Lauren Parry here. The receptionist asks who I am and when I say her boyfriend she finally looks.
"Third floor, room 108" she says. I run to the elevator, still lugging my case and press the button. I step out and find her room. I hear voices inside so I knock first and a nurse opens up for me. I see Lauren in the bed, deathly pale.
"Tony" she whispers as my heart breaks. I can't move. I'm paralysed with fear. What is wrong with her?
It takes me a couple of seconds to come to my senses and I dash to her side, taking her hands in mine.
"Why didn't you say anything?" I say.
"I didn't want you interrupting the tour. I'm fine. It's all gone."
I look down and see the tubes coming out of her flat chest, draining liquid out of her. I feel a tear roll down my cheek but she quickly wipes it away, her hand shaking.
"I'm still here. You fought when you were ill, now it's my turn" she whispers. I want to take her in my arms but I'm terrified of hurting her.
"I love you Lauren. Please don't leave me" I say.
"By your side, always" she whispers, smiling at me.