I mustered a smile, which probably looked more pained than pleasant.
Alex glanced over with a hint of disdain and took a casual sip of his water.
"Hi, I'm Jessica Roberts." I reached out my hand, "Sorry for being late, work was crazy today."
Alex touched my fingertips briefly.
"Actually, Jess, wasn't your brother getting treatment in Italy? Alex might know some really good doctors there since he's worked in an awesome hospital." My friend pushed, trying to make a connection.
I nodded, swallowing hard to fight back tears. "No worries, really, it's all good."
"What was his diagnosis?" Alex asked, breaking the ice.
I paused, "Um, something like neuroblastoma, I think?"
"Neuroblastoma."
"Right," I responded, trying to keep my composure.
Alex seemed intrigued, "How long has he been ill?"
"Years now, he had no choice but to seek treatment abroad eventually."
Somehow, I ended up telling him everything.
"Years?" Alex appeared genuinely taken aback.
"Let's drop it, okay? Let's just order some food." My friend quickly intervened, sensing the tension.
After dinner, she persuaded me to add Alex on WhatsApp.