[With a soft smile, Aria's hand migrated upwards from the sleeve of the jacket wrapped around Vincent and to his cheek. She was as warm as he was, but all her fire came from a gentler place.]

That is a mother's burden to carry, but I don't believe it is a mistake.

[No, the real mistake was forcing herself to sit up. With a faint tremble, her hand withdrew and she attempted to lower herself back to her bed. Kit would worry so much if he knew she was pushing herself, and he would blame himself or even his friend. She couldn't allow that. As she had told Vincent already, such things were meant for a mother's shoulders. She had to believe this was the right thing. She had to have faith.

As she settled back against her pillow, her breathing a little heavier from exerting herself, she did her best to smile again at the small teen next to her bedside. She didn't even know his name. That was the real tragedy here.]

Thank you.

[Because, for all his sullenness, he hadn't really said no.]

They're probably wondering where you are by now. I won't keep you any longer.