Pieces Of Us

Chapter 8: Diagnosis

The hospital room was quiet, the faint hum of medical equipment the only sound breaking the silence. Haein lay in bed, her face pale under the fluorescent lights. The aftermath of her collapse had led to a series of tests and consultations with specialists. The diagnosis had come as a heavy blow: cloud cytoma, a rare brain tumor known for causing time slips and hallucinations.

Dr. Kim, a middle-aged neurologist with a calm demeanor, sat across from Haein at a small consultation table. His expression was serious as he reviewed her medical records. "Ms. Hong" he began, "the MRI results show a tumor located in your temporal lobe. This condition, cloud cytoma, can lead to episodes of time slips and hallucinations. We'll need to monitor it closely and discuss treatment options."

Haein nodded, her mind racing. The weight of the diagnosis pressed heavily on her chest. The thought of undergoing surgery and revealing her condition to her family was overwhelming. The prospect of additional scrutiny and pity was something she wanted to avoid.

"I understand," Haein replied, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "What are the next steps?"

Dr. Kim outlined a treatment plan that included medication to manage symptoms and a potential surgical intervention if the tumor grew or caused significant issues. "It's important that we proceed with caution," he said. "You'll need to keep us updated on any new symptoms."

As the doctor left, Haein remained seated, her mind consumed by the implications of the diagnosis. She knew that sharing this news with her daughter or anyone else would only add to the emotional strain she was already under. Soobin's recent behavior and her own deteriorating health had left her feeling isolated and vulnerable.

Determined to maintain a semblance of normalcy, Haein resolved to manage the condition privately. She didn't want to add another layer of stress to her already strained relationship with Soobin. Keeping her diagnosis a secret seemed like the only way to protect herself from further emotional upheaval and avoid the inevitable burden of sympathy.

Haein left the hospital later that day, her steps heavy with the weight of her decision. She returned to the penthouse, which felt even colder and more impersonal than usual. The opulence of her surroundings seemed distant, a stark contrast to the internal chaos she felt.

That evening, Haein sat at the dining table, trying to focus on preparing a simple meal. The act of cooking, a routine she had always found comforting, now seemed like a mundane task against the backdrop of her new reality. She glanced at the clock, noting how time seemed to drag with each passing minute. The knowledge that her own perception of time might be unreliable due to the tumor was unsettling.

When Soobin arrived home, she barely acknowledged her mother, her focus fixed on her phone and the latest updates from her friends. Haein watched her from the kitchen, forcing a smile as she served dinner. The conversation was minimal, and Soobin's indifference was palpable.

"Did you have a good day?" Haein asked, trying to sound casual.

Soobin glanced up briefly, her expression dismissive. "Yeah, just went out with friends. I'm not really hungry right now. I'll eat later."

Haein's smile faltered, but she quickly recovered, not wanting to push the issue. "Alright, let me know if you need anything."

As Soobin retreated to her room, Haein was left alone with her thoughts. The house felt eerily quiet, a reflection of the isolation she felt. She wondered how long she could continue to hide her condition, knowing that each day would bring new challenges. The burden of secrecy weighed heavily on her, but she resolved to bear it alone for as long as she could.

In the privacy of her room, Haein sat by the window, staring out at the city lights. The sight of the bustling city below felt distant, as if viewed through a haze. Her mind was filled with uncertainty and fear about the future. As she faced the daunting reality of her diagnosis, Haein knew that navigating the complexities of her health and her strained relationship with Soobin would be an ongoing battle.