The Inevitable

I sat by Marion's bedside in the stark hospital room. I was really beginning to despise hospitals more. 

No happy thoughts that I tried to conjure did little to ease the overwhelming silence that now filled the space. 

Marion's condition had worsened overnight. 

His face was now pale and drawn and his eyes barely open. I hated to see him like this. It broke me. 

Yet when I reached out and took his hand, I could still feel a faint, reassuring warmth. He was still with me, but for how long?

I held on tightly as if letting go meant losing him completely.

I leaned close, whispering the words that I have said since I got into this room. 

 "Please, just stay with me a little longer. You have been my rock, my guide, my everything." I begged and my voice trembled as tears began to stream down my face.