"That's about it." Dr. Carroll closed the file, looking intently at the couple before her. "Any questions?"

"I don't think so," Chrissy answered meekly as Kevin sat in shocked silence.

"Kevin, we're going to beat this." Leaning forward she commanded his attention and he finally looked up. "You're scared, and that's a good thing. It means you're taking this as seriously as it needs to taken. Now you just need to help Chris over the next few days. There are a lot of pre-admitting tests that need to be done and I still want her to rest as much as possible before the procedure."

"Thank you. For everything." Kevin rose to his feet, Chrissy's hand firmly in his.

"We're in this together, Kevin. Chrissy is blessed to have such good friends or we might not be having this conversation. If you need me, call. I mean that, call me for anything."

"Thanks, Beth." The two women hugged, Chrissy never once letting go of Kevin's hand.

Silently, hand in hand, they exited into the bright Florida sunshine.

"Amazing, isn't it?"

"What, Chris?"

"That there's an entire world out here ... living normal, uncluttered lives while I--" she broke off suddenly, her eyes filling with tears. Dashing them away with her hand she strode briskly towards the car, leaving Kevin behind.

"Don't shut me out. Not now." Being tall, he easily caught up with her.

Chrissy was crying too hard to even answer and he wrapped her in his embrace, allowing her the time to grieve and ignoring the curious stares of the passersby.

Finally she quieted, her sobs diminishing into an occasional hiccup.

"I love you, Chrissy."