The Girl They Never Noticed

Chapter 66

"Well darling, your test results are very normal given the circumstances. You slept through the nights, your vitals are good at all times, you don't suffer from hypertension or irregular heart beats and honestly I don't see any signs of PTSD on you or any signs of anything else...."

"Is that... do you think..... does that mean I'm not normal? Because after everything that happened, I should be feeling something. But I'm not. I'm not feeling anything and I'm really scared that the experience has turned me into someone with no feelings. That it turned my heart cold."

He smiled a very kind and reassuring smile, and put his hands on mine.

"Contrary to popular belief, not everyone who went through something experiences PTSD. I believe a study somewhere showed that it was only about 8% of people who will have these symptoms. The ones who don't, like yourself, might have experienced something we refer to as 'protective factors'. Such as people or a support group who made you feel safe during or after your trauma."

My mind immediately went to Jaycee and my little gang, but the doctor continued talking.

"..The way you coped with the whole situation also helps, and more importantly your mindset; your wit and fast thinking. I don't know if you've noticed little girl, but you are without a doubt, one of the most resourceful teens I have ever met. You are sharp, intelligent, strong and I believe that played a huge role in shielding you from nightmares. Never underestimate yourself Alexis, because I know that these little traits are the reason you become one hell of a doctor."

His words really took me aback and for the first time, I was at loss for words to say. Knowing me though, a tear or two slipped through .

"Thank you doctor. It really means a lot." My voice was shaky, but I hope he knew just how much his words meant, especially for someone who doubted herself her entire life and never thought much of herself.

He patted my hand one more time and continued on with his previous conversation.

"So circling back to our previous convo, it seems like you are good to go. Tests came back negative to any viral or bacterial infection of any sort. Whatever they did to your brother, none of it is in your system. We did multiple tests to ensure we had the right results and......"

"I'm sorry. Hold on. 'Right results'? Does that mean.... does that mean you know what happened to CJ?"

He opened his mouth to say something, but he closed it again.

He couldn't answer me, but his body did. The look of sympathy in his eyes. The furrowed brows. The slump of defeat in his shoulders.

"Unfortunately, Mr. Pierce has told us that he doesn't want that information shared with anyone, and that he would prefer if he told you that information himself. As per the doctor/patient confidentiality agreement, I am obliged to fulfill his wishes my dear."

That doesn't sound good. None of it does.

"When.... when can I go and see him?" Oh doc, you thought I didn't have an irregular heartbeat, well you're about to be blown away.

"You will be discharged right now, and as soon as Agent Higgins comes for you, I believe you will be taken to him."

"Okay." I whisper. My stomach is tied in knots like never before.

"Okay. Do you have any questions for me?"

I shook my head, unable to speak.

"Well then Ms. Pierce, it has been a pleasure. You take care of yourself now okay?" He extended his hand for me to shake.

I shook it, still in disbelief, and watched him and he left my room. I feel a lump in my throat and an unbearable hole in my heart. CJ sacrificed himself so I could live. If anything happens to him, how will I be able to live with myself? What did that monster do to him?