Dopamine Rush

34| TIME'S UP.

JUNE

I'm in that same room again. The room where I felt claustrophobic. White walls, sterile, quite, and private. Infront were Dra. Ava Mendez, there's Dr. Roberto Ramirez and Josh. They're explaining everything to me after I agree with the transplant. My condition, the problem, what causes it to deteriorate, the interventions and the details regarding the transplant.

On the line were Dr. Anthony Smith. A cardiologist and cardiothoracic surgeon. He's known in US as one of the best surgeons. I don't know about all of this and they sure did this without my knowledge or consent, but I don't have the heart to ask or thank them for doing this.

[Ms. Imperial, you need to take the transplant as soon as possible. Right now, with your current condition, the success rate is 60%. The more we delay it, the less the success rate.] The doctor explained over our zoom meeting. [You need to come here immediately for monitoring. We need to prepare your body for the operation.]

He continue to expand further, until the meeting ended. I stayed quiet, the noise in my head was loud enough.

"Let's do it this coming month." I talk for the first time after entering this office.

They exchange looks, then, Dr. Ava smiled at me and nodded.

"I'll prepare your papers and the schedule. We'll leave for US at 4th of July. I'll prepare everything." Dr. Ava stated and pulled me for a motherly hug. "All will be fine, Iz. You'll be fine."

I can't bring myself to smile so I just nodded, appreciatively.

"I'm going home." Paalam ko at walang lingon na umalis.

Upon arriving at my apartment, I've found Carlo peacefully sleeping on my bed. I found my way beside him and rested my head into his arm. He slightly woke up and scoop me into him. I nuzzled into his chest as he pulled me closer. I closed my eyes and let his warmth comfort me.

"Should I cook for us?" He asked, voice raspy from sleep.

I shake my head.

"Later." I whispered.

"Let's cuddle, then." He said, tightening his hold and I nodded, pleased and satisfied.

"Why are you here?" I asked while playing with his adams apple.

"Because you're here." He replied, eyes closed, steady breathing. He look so calm and peaceful.

"Sweet talker." I grinned, flickering his chin.

"I'll be extra busy this coming days. The end of residency ceremony will be in two days. I want you to be there." He said. I stopped playing with his adams apple and look at him. His eyes are now open and directly looking back at mine. "I've planned a dinner for us after the ceremony."

I look away and shifted my focus at his face. My fingers find the stubbles on his chin.

He looks handsome when freshly shaven but those stubbles suit him well as well. It's a different level of manliness and attractiveness. He look bad and rugged.

"Should we shave your stubbles, then?" I suggested.

He look at me. His face lit with amusement, "Only if you promise not to cut me."

I grinned and pull myself up, running to the bathroom.

I get a small basin, a towel, his shaving cream, and his razor blade. I peeked my head out and find him lying with his hand on the back of his head. Very sexy.