Christy’s alive.”“What?” Diana jumped from her bed. “How’s that possible?”“Apparently, Mom dragged Christy from her bedroom and got he... to the veranda. But it must’ve been just too much smoke for her. She died not too long ago.”“And Christy.” Diana cocked her head. “Will live?”“They’re not sure.” Maddi sighed. She cast her eyes downward and sharpened her glare. “The doctors say she’s in critical condition. At least you weren’t home when it started and you’ll be released soon. Did you move into. "I love you more than anything in this world. I never, ever, want to hurt you, to make you cry." Tears began to fall from his eyes."Oh Tommy, I love you so much too."Tommy brought his lips to hers in a loving tender kiss. When he pulled away, he held her face in his hands, using his thumbs to wipe away her tears."Actually mom, it was pretty funny when we passed that old couple on the way to the car. I thought the old guy was going to have a heart attack when he saw your dripping face. I wonder. His assistant puts her through to him, and he immediately demands to know why she didn’t return his calls last night. “Mike, I had some last minute meetings and then supper with people who are very important to the success of the hospital. I apologize and I’ll make it up to you when I get home. Love you.” JC grabs her roller bag and Lem’s flowers and heads to the lobby and check out.Making it to the lobby, she see’s Reuben sitting in a chair finishing a coffee. “Good morning, Reuben. Ready to. "It grows late and you chew this like a grandmother on a bone. Tomorrow will bring what tomorrow brings. Muster early, prepare cold food, be ready to march." Roja stood. "Good night ... go to your tents and dream of warm Southern women complaining underneath you."The men laughed and filed out. Trask was the last to leave, and Roja held him back by the arm. The two men spoke for a few minutes in hushed tones, and Roja handed Trask a bag of coin. Trask nodded and left. Soon Roja walked to his.