"No," I mumble. I try to shake my head but can't, the agony making it impossible. "I want to stay awake. I want to be with you." "Do not worry. I will be here when you wake." "But you were gone before." "I was not gone. I was here and I will always be here." "How can you be so sure?" She kissed me again before answering. "Because," she says, her voice tender, "I am always with you, Ira."