I had watched her in the mirror while she applied mascara. I hadn't said anything.
I was going to say something soon.
"Ms. Carter?" The nurse at the desk smiled politely. "Dr. Mitchell is ready for you in Room Four. Mr. Ashford, there's a private family lounge just through there if you'd prefer."
"He's coming with me," Faye said quickly, her fingers tightening on my sleeve.
I didn't move.
"Dom?" Her voice went small.
"I'll wait in the lounge."
Her face flickered - a microsecond of something that wasn't fragility at all - before the soft wounded look slid back into place.
"Oh. Of course. If that's what you want."
She let go of my sleeve slowly, made sure I saw her take a small brave breath, and followed the nurse down the corridor.
I watched her go. Then I turned and wal
