CHAPTER 22
DEPARTURE
Luke wasn’t surprised at the woman’s imminent departure but he was still saddened. He leaned in close to her and could tell she wanted to say something to him, though when she did finally manage to it was in a barely audible voice.
“Mister Ellis?” Her voice was as dry and desiccated as sand.
“It’s just Luke, ma’am. Call me Luke.”
“Okay, Luke.” Her breath wheezed and rattled. She coughed weakly and paused for a moment to gather her rapidly diminishing strength.
Ellis had known Death his entire adult life and he knew that it had arrived to claim this woman. He squeezed her hand in reassurance and fell into respectful silence. He would stay by her side until she left.
The woman also knew she had just a minute to live. She made one final heroic effort and pushed bac
