Rene knew that happened when she was trying not to cry. And the fact that her eyes werewatery proved his point all the more. Celine whimpered and ran her fingers through her hair, shaking her head. "Surgery?" "She needs it. Now. Time is of the essence." "Yes." Celine wavered on her feet. "Do whatever is necessary. Just ... make sure she stays alive." The doctor nodded then left, almost jogging down the hallway. Celine nearly collapsed. Rene caught her, bundling her against his chest as her sobs took over. She clutched his shirt as she fought to control her sobs. Rene felt his heart ache for her. After setting Celine in a chair to make sure that she wouldn't fall, he asked for her father's phone number. She was in no shape to make the call herself. Rene called her father and then he turned his attention to Celine. He crouched down and held her face in his hands. Tears raced over her cheeks as she fought for breath. "I'm here for you, Celine. Everything will be okay. We're going to get through this. The rest of the world can wait." She nodded; Rene could tell she was having trouble relaxing. Anytime she'd start to calmdown, the sobs would return along with hiccups. Finally, her father arrived. He swept Celine intohis arms and mouthed a 'thank you' to Rene. All that was left to do was wait.
