Finally, I gather enough courage to step forward. My hand hovers over the door handle for a moment before I exhale, almost holding my breath, and gently push the door open. I step inside slowly, and then close the door behind me.
My steps are small, and almost hesitant as I draw closer to her bed. I blink back tears because one of us has to be strong and it’s me. But the second I reach her side, it all crashes over me and I burst into tears.
Allie is lying on the bed, pale and still, an oxygen mask covering her nose and mouth. Clear tubes run from her arms to the IV bags hanging beside her bed, and the monitors near her head beep slowly. She looks fragile so unlike the vibrant, laughing, unstoppable Allie I know.
Clutching her hands gently, I lower myself onto the chair beside her. He
