Chapter 42: Wilms Tumor

Adam, who had been silent up until now, stepped forward, his voice controlled but tense. "Tell me the truth, Simon."

Simon exhaled slowly, removing his glasses and pinching the bridge of his nose. "I can't say for certain until we have the test results."

"But you suspect something," Adam pressed. "What is it?"

Simon looked between the worried parents, his lips pressing into a firm line.

"There are a few possibilities, some more concerning than others. It could be an inflamed lymph node, a benign cyst, or something gastrointestinal."

Mary swallowed. "And the worst-case scenario?"

Simon's silence was answer enough.

Mary felt her knees weaken, and Adam quickly steadied her. "Breathe," he murmured.

Simon placed a reassuring hand on Mary's shoulder.

"I'm not saying it's the worst-case scenario. But given her symptoms, I don't want to take any risks. The tests will give us clarity."