ONE HUNDRED AND ONE.

Groaning, I slowly feel myself rousing from my slumber and my abdomen feels like it is on fire.

“Sweetie, don't move too much.” I recognise my Aunt Maes’ sweet voice.

“Aunt Mae?” I croak. “Is that you?”

“Shhh, love. Save your energy.” She says quietly in a trembling voice as she rubs my arm.

I breathe heavily, feeling emotional, and swallow the lump that coaxes the back of my throat.

“Is it over?” My voice shakes with sadness. “Did they… remove it?” The desire to know is too consuming for me not to ask.

I force myself to stay awake, fluttering my eyelids open as I stare up at the ceiling that looks very different to the one I saw before I was sedated.

I slowly twist my neck, looking at Aunt Mae, who has tears in her eyes.

“It is, Ivy.” She sighs, shaking her head as her bottom lip trembles. “It's over, and I am so sorry for your loss. For your pain and suffering.” She sobs as she wipes the tip of her nose with a tissue.

I close my eyes, tears of agony and torment staini