As she got to the hospital, she called Lahela, notifying her what happened and an emergency medical team was sent out to help him and bring him into surgery right away. Alaina was taken in as well, being patched up for the scratches on her arm. Now she's waiting in the waiting room, waiting for him to wake up. He was stable, but he didn't wake up yet. Her heart was still racing, her leg bouncing as she waited.

She was so terrified and worried, her thoughts running wild. What if something had happened? What if he didn't make it? No. She couldn't let her thoughts run like that. She had to stay positive. He was stable, everything was going to be okay. He had to be okay. As she sat there, her parents and sister arrived. Her parents and sister were both concerned.

"We came as just as we heard." Her mom said, sitting beside her.

"He just wanted a normal day." Alaina frowns, a tear falling down her face. "He couldn't even have that." She whimpers, breaking down. "He checked himself out of the hospital today, he said he couldn't lay in a bed and just wait to die." She explains, sniffling. "We were on the way here, and he fainted. I had to take control of the bike and got him here. He had all these symptoms. He has an infection, mom."

"Oh, sweetheart," Her mom coos, hugging her. "Everything is going to be okay. He's going to pull through this. He's strong, and he has so much to live for. Especially you."

Alaina felt her dad rub her back. "We're here for you, kid. Everything is going to be alright. Your mother's right, he's going to make it through this." She sniffled and held onto her family tightly, finding comfort in their presence. She knew they were right, that Nico was strong and had a fighting spirit. She just hoped and prayed that he would wake up soon, that they could put this nightmare behind them and focus on getting him better.

Hours passed, and Alaina remained glued to her seat in the waiting room, her eyes fixed on the door, willing it to open and bring news of Nico's condition. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Lahela walked through the door, and Alaina's heart skipped a beat, her breath catching in her throat. She sprang to her feet, her body trembling with anticipation.

"Is he okay?" She blurted out, her voice trembling with anxiety.

"He's stable," Lahela reassures her. "We were able to stop the infection, and he's resting now."

Alaina exhales sharply, tears of relief welling up in her eyes. "Can I see him?" She asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Lahela gives her a soft smile. "Of course. Just follow me."

With a nod, Alaina followed Lahela out of the waiting room, her legs shaking with each step. She felt like she was in a daze, her mind and body numb with shock and relief. As they approached Nico's room, she took a deep breath, steeling herself for what she was about to see. When Lahela opened the door, her eyes immediately fell on Nico's sleeping form, her heart clenching at the sight. He looked so small and vulnerable in the hospital bed, his face pale and drawn.

Alaina approached the bed slowly, her steps tentative and unsure. She didn't know what to expect or how she would react. As she stood beside the bed, her gaze drifted over his sleeping face, her chest tightening as she took in his pale complexion and dark circles under his eyes.

"He's going to be okay." Lahela reassures her, placing a hand on her shoulder and squeezing it, "You can sit with him if you want."

"Thank you." Alaina mumbled.

Lahela guides her over to a chair and helps her sit down, her hand remaining on Alaina's shoulder. "Take your time. If you need anything, just let me know." She said gently.

Alaina nods, unable to speak through her tears. She sits there, her eyes fixed on Nico's still form, her mind reeling from the events of the past few hours. She couldn't believe how close she had come to losing him, and her heart ached at the thought. But he was okay, he was going to be okay.

A wave of emotion washed over her, and she reached out to take his hand, needing to feel his touch. As her fingers wrapped around his, his cold hand a contrast to her warm hand, her heart began to slow, and her breathing became steady. She felt a sense of calm wash over her, her eyes closing as she reveled in the knowledge that he was alive, that he was going to recover.

She opens her eyes, looking at his face and she smiles through the tears. "We're going to get through this, baby. You and me." With that promise, she remained by his side, holding his hand, not once leaving him alone.

****

Lahela came by later to check on her, surprised to find Alaina sleeping next to him, her hand still holding his. Her head was on the bed and her back was hunched over. Lahela frowned, realizing she hadn't left Nico's side since she was brought in with him. She gently placed a hand on Alaina's shoulder and nudged her awake.

Alaina stirs, blinking as she tried to adjust her eyes. She lifts her head from the bed, wincing at the ache in her neck and back. "What time is it?" She asked, her voice heavy with exhaustion.

"It's late," Lahela responds, her voice soft and gentle. "Why don't you go home and get some rest?"

Alaina shakes her head adamantly. "No, I can't leave him." She said, her voice laced with determination.

"Alaina," Lahela starts, her tone gentle but firm. "You need to take care of yourself too. You know he wouldn't want you to run yourself ragged trying to stay by his side all the time."

Alaina sighs, knowing that Lahela was right. "I know, but I can't help it. I feel like if I leave him, he'll slip away, and I can't bear the thought of losing him."

Lahela reaches out and places a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I understand. But you need to take care of yourself. Otherwise, you won't be any good to him when he wakes up. So, why don't you go home, get some rest, and come back tomorrow? I promise to call you the second he wakes up."

Alaina hesitates, torn between her desire to stay and her need for rest. After a moment, she finally relented, knowing that Lahela was right and that she needed to take care of herself. "Alright," She said, her voice laced with reluctance. "I'll go home and get some sleep." She yawned, her exhaustion finally catching up with her.

"Good," Lahela said, giving her a warm smile. "I'll make sure to call you the second he wakes up."

With a nod, Alaina stands, stretching her aching muscles and joints. She looks back at Nico's still form, a surge of emotions washing over her. "I'll be back soon, sweetheart." She promised, leaning down and placing a soft kiss on his forehead.

She left the room with Lahela, heading to the waiting room where her mom was at, waiting for her. Her dad and sister had left a few hours ago. She appreciated her mom waiting for her.

"Mom." Alaina croaked, feeling her throat dry and her stomach grumbling. She hadn't eaten much today, her anxiety and worry keeping her from eating.

"There you are, sweetheart," Her mom says, walking towards her. "How are you holding up?" Concern and worry shined in her eyes as she looked at her youngest daughter. She never seen Alaina like this before.

"I'm alright. It's just..." She pauses, struggling to find the words to describe the whirlwind of emotions that she was feeling. "It's just been a long day."

Her mom wraps her arms around her, holding her tightly. "I know, honey. I'm so proud of you though."

"For what?" She mumbled, hugging her mom tightly as she buried her face in the crook of her neck.

"For being so strong, for staying by his side," She rubs her back gently, soothing her. "I know it must have been hard, but you stayed by him, and I know he'll appreciate that when he wakes up. And you brought him back here all by yourself. That's impressive, sweetie."

"Thanks, mom." She sniffled, feeling her tears stinging her eyes. She was so tired, physically and emotionally. She hadn't realized how much it had taken out of her until now.

"Come on, let's get you home and get some rest." Her mom said, pulling back from the embrace. Alaina's stomach growling causes the two to both chuckle. "But first let's get you something to eat."

"Sounds good to me." She yawns again, rubbing her eyes. "I could use a good meal."

They walked out of the hospital together, and headed towards her mom's car. The ride was quiet, save for the sound of the engine. As they approached her house, she couldn't help but glance over at the house across the street, her heart sinking as she thought about how empty and quiet it must be.

"How is aunt holding up?" Alaina asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"She's doing the best she can, considering the situation." Her mom replied, her voice soft and gentle.

"I just wish there was something I could do, something to make her feel better." Alaina sighed, feeling helpless.

"I know, honey. But the best thing you can do right now is to focus on taking care of yourself and being there for Nico when he wakes up. You have such a kind heart, Alaina, but you can't shoulder everyone's burdens. It's too much for one person." Amya explained, reaching out and squeezing her hand.

Alaina nods, knowing that her mom was right. She had to focus on taking care of herself and Nico, that was all she could do right now. She was his lifeline, and he was hers. They were a team, and they would get through this, together.

When they arrived home, her parents went inside while Alaina stayed outside for a few minutes, standing on the porch. She glanced over at the house across the street, sighing as she saw that the lights were still off. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, and then made her way inside, the scent of her dad's famous lasagna hitting her nostrils, making her stomach growl.

"I'm guessing the hospital food wasn't as good as my cooking." Her dad chuckled.

"Not at all." She shakes her head, sitting at the table with a small smile. "Thanks, dad."

"No problem, kid." He gives her a warm smile, serving her a plate. "Eat up, you're gonna need the energy."

Alaina nodded and began to eat, enjoying every bite of the delicious meal. She was grateful for her parents' support and their understanding of her need to stay by Nico's side. She couldn't imagine having to go through this without them.

After she finished eating, she went upstairs to her room and collapsed onto her bed, exhaustion overtaking her. She felt like she could sleep for days, her body and mind drained from the events of the day. But despite her weariness, her thoughts were still consumed with worry and concern for Nico. She could only hope and pray that he would wake up soon, that he would be okay.

She fell asleep with those thoughts swirling in her mind, the image of his sleeping form etched into her memory.

****

(alaina's outfit for this part of the chapter)

The next morning, Alaina woke up early and did her normal morning routine. She took a shower, got dressed, and did her hair and makeup. She wanted to look her best when she saw Nico. As she was getting ready, she noticed that she had an unread text from Lahela.

Alaina quickly unlocked her phone and read the text, her heart skipping a beat.

Lahela: Nico is awake and he's asking about you.

She smiled, feeling relieved and excited. Nico was awake, and he was asking about her. That had to be a good sign, right?

She responded to the text, letting Lahela know that she would be there as soon as possible. Then, she grabbed her bag and rushed out of the house, barely remembering to tell her parents where she was going. As she rode her jeep towards the hospital, she felt a mixture of anxiety and anticipation. She was so happy that Nico was awake, but she was also nervous about seeing him.

She hoped and prayed that he would be okay, that his condition hadn't worsened during the night. As she arrived at the hospital, she took a deep breath and gathered her courage. Whatever the situation was, she knew she had to be strong for Nico. She parked her jeep and walked inside the hospital, her footsteps echoing in the quiet lobby. She greeted the nurses at the front counter and headed to Nico's room, her nerves rising with each step.

As she approached his room, she took a deep breath and slowly pushed the door open, her heart racing as her gaze landed on him. He was awake and sitting up in his bed, his dark hair tousled and his face pale. He turned towards the door, his brown eyes meeting hers, and her breath caught in her throat.

"Hey, sunshine," Nico greets, his voice weak but filled with warmth and affection. "I'm so glad to see you."

Alaina felt her heart swell with relief and love at the sight of him awake and speaking to her. She rushed to his side, her eyes brimming with tears as she reached out to take his hand. "Nico, I'm so happy you're awake," She whispers, her voice choked with emotion. "I was so worried about you."

"I'm sorry I scared you," He said softly, his thumb gently stroking her hand. "But I'm okay now, thanks to you."

She shakes her head. "I didn't do anything, Lahela is the one who saved you."

"But you brought me here, you kept me alive. And you stayed by my side. I can't thank you enough for that." Nico smiles, his eyes filled with love and gratitude. "You're the strongest, most beautiful woman I've ever met, and I'm so lucky to have you in my life."

Alaina felt her cheeks heat up at his words, her heart racing as she looked into his eyes. "I love you, Nico," She whispers, her voice trembling with emotion. "I love you so much, and I was so scared that I was going to lose you."

"I love you too, sunshine," Nico replies, his voice filled with sincerity. "And I promise I'm not going anywhere. I'll always be here for you, no matter what."

Alaina sat down on the edge of the bed, leaning forward to cup his face and kissed him. He didn't hesitate, kissing her back and holding her close. His hand went to the back of her neck, pulling her even closer. The kiss was full of passion and love, a promise of their commitment to each other. When they finally broke apart, they were both breathing heavily, their faces flushed.

"You should rest," Alaina said softly, caressing his cheek. "I don't want you to overexert yourself."

Nico nods. "I will, but only if you promise to stay with me."

"Of course I will," She smiles, kissing his forehead. "I'm not going anywhere." She moved to lay by him carefully, trying not to disturb the IV line.

He wraps his arm around her, pulling her close. She rests her head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. It helped calm her nerves, and she closed her eyes, savoring the moment. As they lay together, Alaina felt a sense of peace wash over her. Despite the chaos and uncertainty of the past few days, she knew that as long as they were together, they could overcome anything. She had been through so much with Nico already, and she was grateful for every moment they had shared. She stayed by his side throughout the day, only leaving briefly to grab some food from the hospital cafeteria. Each moment spent with Nico felt like a precious gift, and she cherished every smile, every touch, every word they shared.

Lahela had came in to check on them and explained to them that there was one treatment that could work to help make the cancer go away. It was his last shot. But if it worked, it would give Nico a new life. It was risky, but he wanted to try. He had faith that Lahela could make him better. Alaina had faith too, but she was terrified of losing him. She just hoped and prayed that the treatment would work, that it would give Nico the chance to live the life he deserved.

****

(alaina's outfit for this part of the chapter)

Soon the treatment for Lahela's plan started. It was a long and difficult process. Nico had to go through a lot of pain and he was often cold and miserable, but Alaina was there by his side. She had always been his light in the darkness, especially now when everything was so uncertain. She held his hand and talked to him, encouraging him to keep going. She brought him his favorite foods and read him stories, keeping his spirits up. She was his lifeline, his anchor in the storm.

Through it all, their love for each other grew stronger, their bond becoming even deeper and more unbreakable. Even when things were at their darkest, they had each other, and that was enough. Soon three weeks have passed and there is still no knowledge of the results. Alaina was a bundle of nerves and anxiety those weeks. Her anxiety had gotten worse, causing her to have panic attacks, but she pushed through it, for Nico. He had told her numerous times to talk to a professional, and she did. She had started going to therapy and was learning ways to manage her anxiety and stress. But when it came to Nico, it was hard. He was her priority and her main focus.

She started going on walks, finding that it helped her clear her head and relax. She was currently on a walk, taking in the fresh air and enjoying the sunshine. It was a beautiful day, and she was trying to appreciate every moment, knowing that it could be fleeting. She stopped at a bench and sat down, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. Everything had been so much, and she just wanted a moment to herself, a moment to breathe.

But suddenly she heard a quiet whine which caused her eyes to snap open. She furrowed her eyebrows and glanced around with confusion, trying to locate the source of the noise. She looked around the park, trying to figure out where the noise was coming from. Her eyes widened in shock and worry when she saw a small and frail puppy hiding under the bushes, trembling. How did she miss seeing him earlier?

She rushes over and knelt down, peering under the bushes at the shivering puppy. "Oh, sweetheart," She said softly, frowning as she looked at the puppy with concern. "What are you doing here all alone?"

The puppy whimpered and whined, looking up at her with wide, fearful eyes. Alaina's heart melted at the sight of the little guy, and she knew she had to help him. The puppy looked young, barely a few months old. His fur was dirty and matted, and his body was thin and malnourished. He was clearly a stray, abandoned by his owner and left to fend for himself. She felt angry at whoever could do such a thing, but she pushed those feelings aside and focused on the puppy, knowing that he needed her help.

"It's okay, sweetheart," Alaina said softly, holding out her hand and smiling gently at the puppy. "I promise I won't hurt you. I just want to help."

The puppy flinch when she held out her hand, whimpering quietly as he stared at her with fearful eyes. He didn't move, not knowing whether to trust her or not. Alaina stayed where she was, keeping her hand out and waiting for the puppy to come to her. She figured he must be scared, she didn't blame him. If she was in his situation, she'd be scared too.

"Please, I won't hurt you," She whispers, her voice soft and gentle. "Come here, it's okay." She could feel her heart aching for the poor puppy, knowing that he must be so scared and confused. But she knew she had to remain calm and patient, hoping that the puppy would eventually come to her.

After a few moments, the puppy slowly crept towards her, sniffing her hand cautiously. He was still wary, but Alaina's calming demeanor seemed to reassure him. Now that he was out of the bushes, she could see that he was a little German Shepherd puppy. His fur was a beautiful golden brown, and his eyes were a bright blue. She could tell that he would be a handsome dog once he was cleaned up and well-fed.

"There we go, sweetie," She coos, smiling as the puppy cautiously sniffs her hand. "See? I'm not gonna hurt you. You're safe with me." She was relieved when the puppy didn't run away, and she hoped that he would trust her enough to let her help him.

She slowly reaches her hand out and gently pets the puppy, running her fingers through his soft fur. He was still nervous, but he didn't pull away or flinch which made her relieved. "There we go, you're such a brave boy, aren't you?" Alaina smiles, gently petting the puppy. "We're gonna get you all cleaned up and taken care of, I promise."

She carefully scooped the puppy up into her arms, making sure not to scare him. She didn't want to overwhelm him, but she knew he needed help. She was surprised the puppy didn't try to escape her grasp, but he must've sensed her kindness and gentle nature.

"Let's go home and get you cleaned up," Alaina said softly, standing up and cradling the puppy in her arms. "You're safe now, sweetheart." She carried the puppy out of the park and towards her house, hoping that he would be okay. He was a little underweight, and his fur was matted and dirty, but he didn't seem sick. He was a sweet puppy, and she could tell he had a good heart. She would take care of him, no matter what.

On the walk home, the puppy curled up in her arms and rested his head against her chest. He must've been exhausted and overwhelmed by everything, and Alaina's warm embrace was comforting to him. She continued to pet him gently, reassuring him that he was safe and loved. She couldn't believe how lucky she was to find him, and she vowed to give him the best life possible.

As Alaina walked home with the puppy cradled in her arms, she couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment wash over her. Despite everything that had happened with Nico, she felt a glimmer of hope and joy at the thought of giving this sweet puppy a second chance at life.

When she arrived home, her parents were surprised to see her carrying the puppy. They immediately noticed the dirt and matting in his fur and the thinness of his frame.

"What's this, sweetheart?" her mom asked, concern evident in her voice.

"It's a puppy I found in the park," Alaina explained, gently setting the puppy down on the floor. "He's been abandoned and needs our help."

Her parents exchanged a glance before her dad crouched down beside the puppy, offering him a gentle smile and a reassuring pat on the head. "Well, he's lucky to have found you, Alaina. Let's get him cleaned up and fed."

Together, they worked to bathe the puppy, carefully washing away the dirt and tangles from his fur. The puppy seemed to relax under their touch, his tail wagging slightly as he enjoyed the warm water and gentle scrubbing. Plus he seemed to enjoy the attention even more, happily soaking up the affection and care.

Afterwards, her parents went to the store and bought a few supplies, including food, a bed, and some toys. Alaina spent the rest of the day playing with the puppy and taking care of him, making sure he was comfortable and happy.

Her parents were supportive and agreed to let her keep the puppy. She was so happy that her parents supported her. She felt that having the puppy around would help distract her from all the stress and worry. Once they got back home from the store, Alaina fed and gave fresh water to the puppy, her heart aching at seeing him devour the food with no hesitation. She knew the puppy was hungry and needed the nourishment. After the puppy was fed, she and her parents sat down to come up with a name for the puppy.

They tossed names around until her dad finally came up with a name.

"What about Lucky?" He asked, smiling at the puppy who was nuzzling Alaina's hand. "Seems appropriate since he was lucky you found him-"

"And I'm lucky he found me." Alaina admits, smiling softly at the puppy. "He's already helping me in more ways than one."

"Lucky is a perfect name," Her mom says, her smile warm and full of affection. "It suits him."

Alaina couldn't help but agree, the name felt right. When the puppy suddenly barked excitedly, his tail wagging, she giggles and smiles. "Looks like he likes that name, too. Lucky, the puppy." She says softly, smiling as the puppy licked her hand and nudged her palm with his nose. "Welcome to the family, Lucky."

She felt a sense of warmth and joy as the puppy barked again, his tail wagging. She couldn't believe how much her life had changed in just a few short days, and she had no doubt that Lucky would continue to bring her happiness and comfort. He was already bringing a sense of light and love into her life, and she was grateful to have him.

With Lucky by her side, she knew she could face anything.

****

(alaina's outfit for this part of the chapter)

It was nearing the end of the three week mark, it will become four weeks soon without the results. Lucky had been helping keeping Alaina sane and her anxiety levels at bay. He was a sweet puppy and he always made her smile. Lucky has grown a bit since she first found him and they've formed a close bond. He would always go with her when she worked at the animal shelter. He was like the mascot of the animal shelter now since he always stayed up front on his bed he had there or would be with Alaina wherever she went. Alaina managed to train him well and he became a well behaved boy. Of course, he's still an energetic and playful pup, and sometimes gets into trouble, but Alaina and her co-workers were able to handle it well.

Lucky also seemed to help cheer up Nico during his treatments. He would go in with her and stay by his side the whole time. Sometimes, he would curl up at the foot of his bed and sleep. He also liked to sleep with them, curling up between the two of them. It made Nico feel more warm and loved, having Alaina and Lucky by his side. One day, Alaina was walking into his room, Lucky on his leash and his favorite toy, a stuffed shark, in his mouth. When he spotted Nico, he was quick to jump on the bed, nearly jumping on Nico.

Nico let out a startled laugh. "Hey there, buddy." He said, petting the puppy who was wagging his tail. He had dropped his toy and was now licking Nico's face, his tail wagging. Nico couldn't help but smile, finding the puppy's energy and love for life contagious. "How are you today?"

"He's been very good today," Alaina replies, smiling at the sight. Lucky always managed to cheer Nico up and put a smile on his face. It warmed her heart, and she was grateful for the little puppy. "He's been extra energetic, but I think he just wanted to come and see you."

"He's always welcome here," Nico said, grinning as he scratched behind Lucky's ear. "He's a good boy, aren't you, Lucky?"

The puppy barked in response, his tail wagging even faster. Nico smiled and continued to pet him, enjoying the moment. Alaina had told him that Lucky had helped keep her anxiety at bay, and Nico was grateful for that. He had seen how anxious and worried she had been lately, and he hated seeing her like that. But knowing that the puppy was helping her feel better made him feel a bit better.

"I'm so glad I found him," Alaina said softly, sitting down next to Nico. "He's been such a blessing. He really is lucky." She reached out and stroked the puppy's soft fur, a smile tugging at her lips.

"Yeah, he is," Nico agrees, a soft smile on his face as he watched the two. "And I'm lucky to have you."

Alaina's cheeks flushed, and she smiled softly at him. "I'm the lucky one," She replies, reaching over and taking his hand in hers. "I love you, Nico."

"I love you too, Alaina," Nico said, squeezing her hand gently. He meant every word, and he was grateful for her. She was the light of his life, and he would do anything for her. "So, so much."

They shared a loving look, their hands intertwined. They started to lean in, their lips inches apart, before Lucky barked, breaking the moment. Nico couldn't help but chuckle and shake his head. "Alright, boy. I guess you want attention, huh?" He asked, his tone amused. Lucky barked in response and wagged his tail, clearly eager for some playtime.

Nico laughed and grabbed the toy from the bed, tossing it across the room. Lucky was quick to chase after it, his paws thundering against the floor. Alaina and Nico laughed, the sight of the puppy bounding after his toy was adorable. They shared a fond look, both of them feeling a sense of warmth and joy at being with each other. They didn't know what the future held, but as long as they had each other, they could face anything.

"I've been thinking of training him to be a therapy dog." Alaina admits, smiling softly as she watched Lucky play with his toy. "Take him to visit patients and cheer them up. He's really good at doing that and he's a smart dog. I think he'd be good at it."

"That's a great idea," Nico said, smiling fondly at her. "He's definitely a smart boy, and he loves cheering people up. I think he'd be perfect for that."

"Me too," Alaina said, feeling a sense of excitement at the idea. She was already looking forward to starting the training and seeing Lucky help others. He was such a sweet and caring puppy, and she knew he would be great at bringing joy and comfort to those who needed it.

Suddenly, a knock is heard and Nico reassures them they can come in. Lahela enters the room, looking excited which got the couple curious. When she spotted Lucky, she smiles. "Hi, Lucky!"

The puppy bounded over, barking and wagging his tail, excited to see her. He knew that she brought treats sometimes, and he was always eager for a snack. She laughed and knelt down, rubbing his head and giving him a few scratches behind the ears. She was a sucker for cute puppies and dogs, and Lucky was no exception. She pulled out a treat from her pocket, glad that she brought some with her. Alaina had given a heads up earlier about coming over.

Lucky quickly scarfed down the treat and barked happily, his tail wagging. Lahela couldn't help but giggle at the sight, his excitement and enthusiasm was adorable. She looked over at the couple, a wide smile on her face as she stood up.

"Why do you seem super excited than normal?" Alaina asks curiously, watching as Lahela sat down across from them. "Is it what I think it is?"

"It worked. No evidence of blasts." Lahela announced with a grin.

Alaina and Nico share a confused look before they look back at Lahela. "What?" Nico asked, his eyes widening as he started to realize what Lahela meant.

"Nico, your cancer is gone." Lahela grinned.

Nico breathes deeply, his eyes widening in shock. It worked. He was officially cured. He couldn't believe it, and he felt a wave of relief and happiness wash over him. He felt tears pricking his eyes, and he couldn't help but smile. He looked at Alaina, his smile growing wider as he saw the tears of happiness and relief in her eyes. He brought their intertwined hands up to his lips and kissed the back of her hand.

"I'll leave you two alone. I'm glad you're doing better, Nico." Lahela said, smiling at them as she started walking to the door. She wanted to give them some time alone.

"Thank you, Lahela. For everything." Alaina replied, smiling gratefully at her. She knew she wouldn't have been able to do this without Lahela's help and support.

Lahela smiles and nods, heading out the door.

Nico and Alaina turn their attention back to each other, both of them smiling widely. Alaina leaned in, her free hand coming up to cup his cheek, and pressed a loving kiss to his lips. He kissed her back, pouring all his love and gratitude into the kiss. They pulled away and rested their foreheads together, their eyes closed as they basked in the moment.

"You did it." She mumbles, her smile growing. "You're a cancer-free man now."

"It sounds so good to hear that." Nico chuckles, a bright smile on his face. "I can't believe it. I owe it all to you, Alaina," Nico said, his voice filled with emotion. "You never gave up on me, even when things seemed hopeless. You were my rock through it all."

"I love you, Nico," Alaina said softly, tears of joy streaming down her face. "I'm so proud of you. You fought so hard, and now you're finally cancer free."

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other's arms, reveling in the happiness of the moment. They had been through so much together, and now they could finally look forward to a future without the shadow of cancer hanging over them. Lucky sat on the floor by the bed, his toy in his mouth as he looked at them with confusion. He could sense the emotions in the room and could tell that something big had happened. His tail wagged slowly, sensing the happiness in the air, and he got up to go over to the bed.

He put his paws on the edge of the bed, his tail wagging and his head tilted, wondering if they wanted to play. The sight was enough to break the tension, and Alaina and Nico couldn't help but laugh. Alaina reached over and scratched the top of his head, a wide smile on her face. Lucky barked and jumped up on the bed, eager to join in the cuddle pile.

"Well, now that I'm cancer free," Nico starts, his arms wrapping around her waist. "What should we do first? I'm dying to take you on a proper date." Alaina giggled and smiled shyly as she settled on his lap, her back against his chest. He kissed her cheek and rested his chin on her shoulder, holding her close. Lucky was curled up on her lap, his tail wagging as he snuggled close.

"A proper date?" Alaina raises an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. "You mean like the picnic we went on at the waterfall?"

"That doesn't really count since we had to come back here." Nico chuckles. "I'm talking about a real date, where we can go wherever you want. Dinner, a movie, a walk in the park. Anything you want."

"Mmm, I can get on board with that," Alaina grins, her eyes twinkling. "I never been to a drive in movie before, but I always wanted to go to one."

"That sounds like a great idea," Nico replies, smiling softly at her. "I'm sure there's a drive-in theatre somewhere on the island."

"Perfect," Alaina says, her smile widening. "I'm looking forward to our date, and to everything else that's ahead of us."

"Me too," Nico says, his tone sincere. "I love you, Alaina." He looked down at her with love and adoration, causing her heart to flutter.

"I love you too," She leans down and kisses him softly, their lips moving in sync. She pulls away and rests her forehead against his, a soft smile on her face. "I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you, baby."

"And I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you," He smiles, pressing a kiss to her forehead. He holds her close, the warmth and love radiating off of them. "We're going to have a great future together."

With Nico's cancer gone, they knew that their future would be brighter than ever. They had the rest of their lives ahead of them, and they were ready to face it together.

A/N alaina & nico >>>>