Fighter

Chapter 6

Twenty minutes later, Olivia was sitting next to Erin, as she explained the whole situation. "And they're sure?" She asked, as Erin nodded. "I wish they had been mistaken. Unfortunately life doesn't work out that way for me...and the cruelest joke of all, is that the best oncology department that the doctor could suggest is back in Chicago." "Erin. I know you're not going to want to hear this, but I'm going to tell you this because I think its for the best. As much as we love you here, and we want to help you - I think going home is the right decision. If they can give you the best chance at beating this, I say that's what you need. Having Hank there too, I'm sure would be beneficial." "This is home now. How am I supposed to go back with my tail between my legs after just dropping off the face of the earth to everyone? How do I put Hank through this again after Camille?" Her shoulders dropped in defeat. Olivia took Erin's hands in her own, and sighed. "This isn't a retreat of shame. You're sick Erin, and you need the best shot at remission. Hank, will understand because he's family. You know he would never turn you away, especially with this." "That's what I'm afraid of. I can't watch his heart break, on the off chance that this...this doesn't get better." She pulled one of her hands away to grab the folder off the table, and handed it to Olivia, who had an oblivious look of confusion cross her face. "Can you read through these and then tell me it's my only choice? I don't think I'm strong enough to convince myself just on my own." The captain nodded and sat back into the cushions and began to read through the package.

She had begun to doze off while Olivia flipped through informational pamphlet after pamphlet. It had been unanimous on what the younger detective needed to do. She really couldn't imagine what she was going through, considering this type of cancer didn't usually effect women in their early 30's, as the statistics had informed her. She glanced over at Erin. The exhaustion was pretty evident on her face, she had already been through the ringer and she did not need this. She wished that this wasn't just another thing she had to survive.
Erin's phone buzzed and she shot up. "Oh sorry Liv." She reached for her phone and flicked through the missed text messages from her unit before returning her attention back. "You're fine. It's been a long week. So I think you know what I'm about to say as far as decision wise goes." Erin nodded slowly. "Time to pack it in and head back, huh?" "I tell you what. Let me fly with you back to Chicago." "You have work and Noah and everything else." "No buts Erin, I'd feel much more at ease if I made sure you got back safely. Lucy can handle Noah for a day or two. And the unit will manage with Finn in charge. It's not up for discussion any longer, I need to make sure I get you back to Voight's care." "Okay." She agreed. "Make sure you let your unit know and I'll help you pack."