She calmed down, her breathing slowing.

I stayed by her side, watching the clock on the wall.

The red digital numbers ticked away the minutes.

At 6:30 AM, the first light of dawn grayed the sky.

The rain had stopped, leaving the streets wet and shining.

I stood up and stretched my stiff muscles.

I walked to the bathroom and splashed cold water on my face.

My reflection looked tired, with dark circles under my eyes.

But my mind was clear.

When I came out, Claire was awake.

She was sitting up in bed, looking at the door.

“Are they coming?” she asked.

“Arthur will be here soon,” I said.

I walked over and checked her IV line.

“How are you feeling?”

“Better,” she said. “Just scared.”

“Don’t be,” I said. “We are doing this together.”

At exactly 7:00 AM, there was a sharp knock on the door.

I walked over and unlocked it.

Arthur stood there, wearing a damp trench coat.

He carried a thick leather folder under his arm.

His face was grim.

“The lobby is packed,” Arthur said as he stepped inside.