A Perfect Storm

Chapter 1

Claire was sitting quietly among students of medicine, scribbling notes on her notebook. Dr. Attkinson was talking steadily about AIDS and HIV, a subject that had become her research the past couple of years. 

She was Dr. Attkinson's student, much like the ones that were surrounding her today, and after graduating first in her year, he had asked her to continue on a research with him towards finding a possible cure for HIV/AIDS. 

The lecture that day wasn't new for her. She knew all tat, but one of her duties working alongside her professor, was to also help his undergraduate students. Today, she had to sit through a lecture, take notes and make copies for the absences on that day; Dr. Attkinson was different in that from many other professors. Although busy, he always cared for each individual student. 

Claire's notes were diligently taken on the paper as she listened to the professor talking.

After a few minutes, the lecture was finally over. 

"Claire, can I see you in my office before you go, please?" Dr. Attkinson asked her as she as putting her things away. 

In his office, Claire let her bag on a chair and sat down after he prompted her to do so. 

"Claire, there's something I would like to ask you. You know of the progress we've done in the lab, of course you were there and you have done a great job," Dr. Attkinson said smiling.

"Thank you, doctor, but it wasn't just me, we had a great team of postgrad students, " Claire replied. 

"Yes, of course, but you worked extra hard. Anyways, I think it's time we took it outside of the lab. I've talked to the board and the results with the terminal patients in the hospital were amazing. We have been given the all clear to start using it on more people, and this is where you come in."

"That's such an honour, doctor. I would love to bring life back to patients," Claire said excited. This was the day she had been waiting for. To help people, to really make a difference. 

Dr. Attkinson picked up a folder from his desk and handed it to Claire. "Here's the patient's file. It is however confidential due to his... well, nature... You will understand. So, both he and I would like to ask you to keep everything under wraps." 

Claire took the folder, "Confidential, doctor? Who is he?"

"Open the file, Claire. It's because of who he is that I chose you. I know you can be trusted to keep it quiet and at the same time I know you will do a great job and two will have an instant connection."

Claire opened the file and read it. She had to go over it twice to believe her eyes. The patient's name brought tears to her eyes. She wasn't living under a rock, she knew who he was and she had seen the photos circulating in the press. She knew something was wrong, he had looked sick, but she didn't want to believe it was that bad.

Claire looked at Dr. Attkinson, concealing the fact that this file had shaken her to the core.

"You understand why I ask of you to keep it quiet, now, Claire?" he asked her.

"Of course, doctor, I will."

"All right. He's expecting you this evening. It's best if we start the therapy now and gain some precious time."

"Yes, Dr. Attkinson" Claire had a sunken look on her face which Dr. Attkinson saw but never doubted for a second that Claire wouldn't be the perfect choice for this. If anything, this could even help her.

"Claire, the hours will be long and it will be difficult at times, but I trust that you will do a great job, not only as his doctor but also as his friend. Remember what I've always told you; We are above all people," the doctor explained as Claire nodded and put on her coat. "Your experience, character and abundant energy and goodness will surely help him, Claire," he said and patted her shoulder. 

"Thank you Dr. Attkinson, I will do my best."

"Now, go to the lab and see Dr. Mann. He will give you the medical bag we have prepared for you. In his file, you will find all the information you need about the treatment. All I want, is you to call me every night and give me a quick report on his progress. Now go, we will talk tonight."

A few hours later, Claire arrived at the house. She rang the bell and was immediately greeted by a friendly man who introduced himself as Peter. 

"You must be Claire," he said. Claire nodded and shook the man's hand.

"Nice to meet you, Claire, I'm Peter, come on in."

"Nice to meet you too, Peter," Claire replied and walked in the house. She immediately took off her shoes and placed them near the door to a place Peter had shown her and let her feet touch the soft carpeted floor. On first impressions she was glad that the basic health guidelines were kept. 

Peter showed her in to a hallway that led to the kitchen and offered her some tea which she politely refused. "If there's anything you need, anything at all, don't hesitate to ask me," Peter said smiling and Claire nodded . He was such a friendly figure and Claire immediately liked him. 

"Let me show you to Freddie's room."

"Thank you, Peter."

As they made their way out of the kitchen and towards the staircase that led upstairs, Peter turned to her asked one more time, smiling, "You sure you don't want tea?" Claire laughed softly, "Yes, Peter, thanks. I'm sure." Claire said smiling back at him and followed him upstairs.

Stopping outside Freddie's room, Claire took a deep breath. 

"Are you ready, Claire?" Peter asked and put his hand on her shoulder.

Claire took a minute to herself. She hadn't told Dr. Attkinson how much she looked up to Freddie Mercury, or how much she liked him since the day she first heard him and saw him. This affection had started when she was but a little girl but soon, life gave her other affections and this one had become just a nice feeling from the past. Now, those memories came back to her to haunt her. She took a moment and gathered her thoughts. He was just a patient now, she was strong, she would do her best. She nodded to Peter, took a deep breath and as Peter opened the door, she walked in ready for whatever came her way.