"What do you mean?"
She sinks down on the settee next to me. "Promise you won’t freak out."
Sweat beads my palms.
"It’s okay. Whatever it is, I can take it." I swallow.
"It’s all good, honey, I promise."
She begins to hand the phone over to me, and I stop her. "Umm, maybe you should read out the comments?"
"If you want."
"I do." I fold my hands in my lap and brace myself. "Hit me with it."
"You sure?"
"I’m sure."
After another few seconds of scrutinizing my features, she nods. "Here goes." She dips her gaze down to the screen and begins to read.
Thank you for sharing your positivity with the world. Your vulnerability and bravery are appreciated beyond words. Thank you!
You are beautiful! Your hair doesn’t define you.
My heartbeat kicks up a notch.
Girl… you’re brave and gorgeous! I’m in the same situation as you, thank you for sharing. [Heart emoji]
Beautiful. [Heart-eyes emoji]
First, you look amazing! Second, I wish I was as brave as you. I would never feel comfortable posting pics without my wig.
I rub my palm across my head and wince when I realize I haven’t yet worn my wig. I took public transport like this, and you know what? No one gave me a second glance.
Magnificent! [ fire emoji]
Yesss girl, you’re so inspiring! You’re so strong, keep it up. [Heart emoji]
Why are you so beautiful? [ Loudly crying face emoji]
Beautiful inside and out. [ blue heart]
You are an inspiration. [ Heart emoji. Heart emoji.]
I love—
"Stop—" I burst out.
She glances up at me. "You okay?"
I nod. "All the messages are—"
"Positive."
"How many messages are there?"
"A couple of thousand? Maybe more?"