"Good news," Derek said, smiling widely as he strode into Faith's room.
"How's that?" Faith asked, somewhat wearily. The treatments were starting to take their toll on her body, and she was worn out.
"Your latest scan is clean," he told her, picking up her chart and jotting something down. "No more mets."
She managed a weak smile. "Really?"
"If it were a test you would've passed," he said gently. He sat down by her bed. "How are you feeling?"
"Tired," Faith replied honestly. "Really tired."
"Understandable," Derek nodded. "You've had a rough few weeks. Treatment will continue this way for a few more days, just to make sure the next few scans are clear, and then we can start easing up again. You're sure there's no one we can call? It helps to have family near by."
"I know," Faith said softly. "But seeing me this way would just upset them, and I don't want to do that. They've got enough going on right now."
"But they're your family," Derek told her. "They want to be here for you."
"I know," Faith glanced up at him. "But I'm so tired and I can't be pretend right now. I just can't."
Derek nodded and touched her hand lightly. "I understand. I'll let you get some rest."
~*~*~*~
Faith woke suddenly, feeling something wasn't right. Eyes heavy with sleep, she looked around the room.
"Hi Mom," Tru said.