The treatment process would take weeks, months, or even years, and she would be in an unfamiliar setting far from her home. How could she say no if it meant even a remote possibility of recovery?
After inhaling deeply, Emily questioned Dr. Garcia, "If I were interested in this treatment, how would we begin?"
Dr. Garcia said. "The initial step would be sending all your pertinent medical data. After I have reviewed the case, we will schedule a time for me to bring you to the facility. It is situated in a tranquil area of the country, away from the bustle, allowing patients to concentrate only on improving. We offer supervision, care, and assistance around. We could start immediately if you're prepared to commit, even if it's difficult."
She could sense that the toll of her three months of travel was taking its toll and that she might not live long. If what Dr. Garcia said was accurate, she had to have started immediately, or it could have been too late.
Emily hesitated for a moment before nodding. "I'll see it through. I'll email you the details as soon as we arrive."
For the remainder of the flight, Emily's mind constantly raced with ideas.
She never would have imagined meeting Dr. Garcia, and she was even less prepared to learn that she could get help.
Now, she was again filled with hope that perhaps, just possibly, she would be cured and lead her to the life she had once imagined.
The idea gave her a cautious sense of optimism.
True to her word, Emily sent Dr. Garcia her medical record and contact information as soon as the plane landed in Stonasia, vowing to follow up quickly.
Unaware of the talk that had just ended, Aiden hurried forward, anxious to see where they were going.
Emily observed her son and considered if she should do it. She didn't know how long her therapy would take or what would happen, but she knew she had to give it her best shot.
For the life they had all once dreamed of, for herself and Aiden. It would be a tough road ahead, but maybe there was finally a path forward with Dr. Garcia's assistance.
***
Emily had never seen a paradise like the Kingdom of Stonasia. The island nation was rich in natural beauty and history, nestled between glistening white beaches and undulating hills filled with historic houses.
The cobblestone alleys were dotted with ancient, historic mansions that told stories of bygone eras while the glistening pure waves lapped softly against the shoreline.
Travelers were enticed to Stonasia by its charm, including the serene beaches and the magnificent palace at the kingdom's center.
This last part of Emily's bucket list quest was heartbreaking. She had toured the world with her loved ones, Aiden, Aunt Ofelia, and Uncle Earl, discovering new locations and making lifelong memories so that they would have something to remember her by when she departed.
That voyage came to an end at Stonasia. Before heading back to Las Vegas, she could stop, take in the beauty all about her, and think. She was at ease at Stonasia, even though her sickness made it difficult to enjoy every moment of her time.
The group did not waste time discovering everything the kingdom had to offer.
Emily tried her best to enjoy the sensation of the cold ocean wind caressing her skin as she toured the white-sand beaches, her feet sinking into the fine sand.
They explored the old historic homes, taking in the exquisite architecture and discovering the island's rich history.
Every nook and cranny of Stonasia seems to conceal a mystery, a fragment of the past just waiting to be unearthed.
But Emily was most attracted by the palace. Perched atop a hill with a commanding view of the island, the opulent building represented Stonasia's illustrious past and a glimpse into the royal family's personal lives.
The grounds surrounding the palace were a wonder in themselves, full of colorful flowers, well-kept hedges, and peaceful fountains. She even heard a tale about King Alexander and Queen Alexa and their love story that filled her heart.
Emily's eye was caught by a private garden off the main route one day as they strolled around the castle grounds.
She promised to meet up with the group later, but something about the peacefulness of the location drew her in.
The only sounds in the garden were the gentle rustle of leaves and the sporadic chirp of birds to break the silence.
As she ventured farther into the garden, Emily noticed someone crouching amid the flowerbeds and carefully caring for the petals.
The man's look was enchanting. Although his hands were covered in dirt from his labor, he exuded a rather striking gracefulness.
Inspired by curiosity, Emily came over. "This place is charming," she said, breaking the silence. Her face filled with sadness as she gazed at her surroundings.
The abrupt incursion shocked the man, who looked up. Sharp cheekbones, dark eyes that seemed to carry the universe's weight, and a serene, almost royal manner were some of his remarkable traits.
They just looked at one another for a while, and a weird connection developed between them.
He got up and wiped his hands before answering, "It is." "For many years, this garden has served as my haven."
Emily grinned. "Flowers must be your favorite."
He smiled back at her, but his eyes showed a glint of mischief. "They infuse a chaotic world with peace."
Their discussion flowed easily, like old friends getting back together after a long break.
Emily discovered Edward was his name, though he didn't say much more about himself.
His sentences were measured and reflective, and he talked with a calm assurance. He had an almost familiar quality, but Emily couldn't grasp it.
While meandering around the garden, Edward narrated tales about the kingdom's history, the flowers planted by the royal family decades prior, and the tranquil existence found amid the natural world.
Emily was enthralled by Stonasia's beauty and the guy who appeared deeply ingrained in its spirit.
It seemed fate had brought them together at the perfect time they met. But their time in the garden was over as fast as it had started.
As the sun began to set, the garden was bathed in a golden glow, and Emily realized it was time to get back to Aiden, Aunt Ofelia, and Uncle Earl.
Edward yelled after her as she turned to go. "Miss, I hope we get to meet again."
She paused briefly as an odd sensation passed through her. With an instinctual response, she said, "Emily Moore," with a sweet and regretful look.
Edward nodded and grinned. "Until our next meeting, Emily Moore."
Emily couldn't help but think about her experience with Edward as she and everyone returned to the palace and continued exploring it.
She was simultaneously curious about him and uneasy because of something about him that was unsaid.
She had no idea that their paths would intersect again in ways none could have predicted and that the Kingdom of Stonasia would play a crucial role in her life's narrative rather than merely serving as a pit stop...~~~