"cut from the same cloth" - their story.

Chapter 20 - smile.

The next morning, Charlotte was jolted awake by the sharp ring of her phone. Groggy and disoriented, she fumbled for the device, her heart pounding as she answered.

"Charlotte?" The voice on the other end was from a nurse at the hospital. "We've reviewed your tests again and would like you to come in as soon as possible. There's been an update regarding your diagnosis."

Charlotte's heart raced as she glanced at the clock. It was early, but the urgency in the nurse's voice made it clear that this was important. She shook Mia awake gently.

"Mia, I've got to go back to the hospital. They've called and said they need to see me right away. I don't know what's happening."

Mia sat up immediately, concern etched on her face. "Do you want me to come with you?"

Charlotte nodded, trying to calm her racing thoughts. "Yes, please. I need you there."

They quickly got dressed and made their way to the hospital. The drive was tense, both of them lost in their thoughts. Charlotte's mind was a whirlwind of fear and hope, while Mia's hand remained firmly in hers, providing silent support. Upon arriving at the hospital, they were directed to a private consultation room. The minutes felt like hours as they waited for the doctor to arrive. Charlotte could feel her anxiety building with each passing moment. Finally, the door opened, and Dr. Bennett, the cardiologist, walked in with a calm and reassuring demeanor. She smiled warmly at Charlotte and Mia.

"Good morning, Charlotte. Thank you for coming in on such short notice. I have some new information regarding your condition."

Charlotte's breath caught in her throat as she looked at Dr. Bennett, her heart pounding. "What's going on? Is it the cancer?"

Dr. Bennett shook her head, her expression softening. "After reviewing your tests more closely and conducting further examinations, we've determined that your condition is not cancerous. What we found is actually a heart issue related to some damage from past trauma. It's something we can address with a specific treatment that should resolve the problem."

Charlotte's eyes widened in disbelief. "So, it's not cancer?"

Dr. Bennett nodded. "Correct. The symptoms you've been experiencing are related to a condition that, while serious, is treatable. We're confident that with the right medical intervention, we can fix the issue and improve your quality of life."

Tears of relief streamed down Charlotte's face as the weight of the news sank in. "I... I can't believe it. This is such a relief. I thought..."

Mia, who had been holding Charlotte's hand tightly, pulled her into a gentle embrace. "It's going to be okay, Charlotte. We're going to get through this."

Dr. Bennett offered a reassuring smile. "We'll discuss the treatment plan in detail and make sure you understand all your options. The good news is that we have a path forward, and we're here to support you every step of the way."