Jane When we arrive at the hospital, Ethan is already in the operating theater. My heart sinks when the nurse at reception tells us we’re too late, but it stops beating completely when we walk into the waiting room and see Nina and Matthew seated on the uncomfortable couches. They’re both wearing guarded expressions, but neither can hide their surprise when Devon and I enter with the pups. I’m sure in time we’ll have it out, but other than some narrowed eyes and posturing, neither one of them objects to our presence. In truth, they seem fairly resigned, and when I ask if there’s been any news, they simply frown and squeeze their linked hands. “Nothing yet,” Matthew shares. “The whole thing should take a few hours… they told us that we’d get a chance to say goodbye if it doesn’t work.”

