But there is no turning back in this world. No do-overs. No second chances. No matter how Theron grieved, time would not flow backward. Avelisse would not step through the door, alive again.
His eyes filled with moisture. He held himself steady, forcing the tears not to fall. In time, the medicine wore off. A fine, sharp pain pricked at his knees. Stinging, constant, like a thousand needles.
Theron braced himself, sat up, and pressed the call button.
The door opened almost at once.
The doctor returned. "Mr. Cauldrake."
Theron was pale. "You spoke earlier of lasting harm. What exactly do you mean?"
The doctor took his instruments and examined both knees carefully. "Your injuries come from extreme cold, made worse by impact and strain. Even though they have healed, there will be perm
