Chapter 49: The Separation

Bilal lifted her silently, cradling her in his arms. For one horrible moment Carmella stiffened before she finally melted against him and buried her face against his neck. He felt her hot tears against his skin and it hurt him as much as daggers.

After a short time, Carmella finally looked at him. His face held not a look of sadness but determination. Something shifted in her. She knew two things as sure as she knew anything else; if Raj died, she would take her own life, and that if there was an answer to save their son then Bilal would move heaven and hell to find it. She wiped her eyes and moved to stand. He stood as well and held her close.

"When do we do this?" She asked bravely.

"We do not. I must to go alone," he said, using a tone that she wasn't accustomed to.

"But-"