Chapter 4

I said, "When I was diagnosed with the same illness as my mother, I didn't tell my family. I didn't want them to bear such heavy pressure, but I never thought my child would suffer from the same disease.

"When it came time for the bone marrow match, I ran away. I made the same choice my mother did—I ran. No family can carry the burden of two patients. My wife would break down. If my family ever has the chance to see this video, I hope they won't hate me."

Cambria choked up. "They won't hate you. Do you have any regrets about the wish?"

I said, "Lakeshireville is still beautiful. I have no regrets."

I had a photo taken of me facing the sunset.

I said to her, "For this episode's pay, remember to deposit it into my son's hospital account."

She asked, "So what should I write on the registration form?"

"Just write 'I'm sorry.'"

From January 21, 2024, to February 15, 2024, filming was intermittent due to the interviewer's poor health.

Episode 2

After I returned from Lakeshireville, the exhaustion from the journey made my body suddenly collapse.

Nearly a month passed.

During the New Year, I contacted Cambria again to arrange the next shoot.

I didn't receive any treatment. I simply shut myself in the rented apartment, relying on painkillers and sheer willpower to get through each episode.

Seeing me so weak, Cambria asked, trembling.

"This is the receipt from the last hospital account. The money has already been transferred to your child's account. Are you sure you're fine? I still have some savings. I can take you to the hospital!"

I was a bit tired. "No need. Painkillers work really well. Let's hurry up and start the second shoot."

Cambria paused for a moment, then spoke. "Earlier, the video of your divorce at the hospital went viral online. Many people donated money to Cody. He's already had one surgery. You don't need to worry too much about the upcoming surgeries and treatment costs; you should focus on yourself first."

I smiled and said, "I know. After all, those netizens kept scolding me. How could I not be aware?"

"Go back and explain everything to everyone. They will understand you. Both you and your son have a chance to survive," she said.

I shook my head.

She asked, "Why? Don't you want to see your son grow up?"

"Of course I do, but I have to accept reality. I already missed the best time for treatment. Even if I go to the hospital now, I might only live another year or two."

Smiling, I continued, "And if I go back, without the gossip of infidelity and betrayal, do you think those people who care about my wife and child would still pay attention?

"Besides, if Scarlett found out I was sick, she would risk everything to save me. The story of cheating couldn't go on, but being loving and kind doesn't attract much attention. In fact, people might call it a scam, say my family is acting just to make money. Do you believe that?"

Looking at Cambria with a serious expression, I said, "You studied new media, so you should understand how traffic works. The backlash from public opinion can be even more devastating. If someone has to take all the responsibility, I hope it will be me."

Cambria's voice trembled, "But Mr. Hudson, your life is important too..."

I looked up at her, calm and smiling.

"I know. That's why I'm working so hard to earn money for medicine. I'll make the most of the time I have left. I want to spend another New Year with my family."

Cambria clenched her hands, her throat tight with emotion.

I smiled and sighed, "Can you grant me one wish?

"Could you wait until the New Year to release these videos? I'd like to record a special greeting for my family."

Cambria understood. She handed me a meal box with ravioli inside—four, not one more or less.

Cambria said that four ravioli were a sign of good luck, symbolizing year-round peace.

Maybe she sensed it, too. I might not make it through this winter...

As the days of preparation went by, she clung more and more to a simple blessing she often whispered to me, "Stay safe."

I tried eating a ravioli.

It tasted great. It was my favorite filling, but unfortunately, after chewing for a long time, I just couldn't swallow it.

In the end, it ended up in the trash bin.

I couldn't eat them, but I tasted every ravioli.

In that case, I supposed it counted as a quiet holiday supper of our own, a small celebration before the true festivities arrived.

On previous New Year's Eves, I would light fireworks with Scarlett and our son in the yard, then give our son a big gift and wish the whole family peace, health, and happiness.

Unfortunately, this year I broke my promise.

I spent quite some time tidying myself up, looking a little more vibrant and less lifeless on camera.

The camera was on me, and I forced a big smile.

I said, "Scarlett, son, I wish you both good health, happiness, and a long life.

"In the new year..."

Before I could finish my sentence, everything went dark and I collapsed headfirst.

I heard Cambria screaming with heartbreak, "Finlay!"