Taneleer Tivan's lungs hissed as he let out a deep sigh. "And there's nothing, absolutely nothing you can do for her?"
"No, Mr. Tivan. She is terminal. Leukemia is a very aggressive form of cancer at her age." The doctor shook his head sympathetically.
The Collector sighed again. "Very well. Thank you for seeing her, at least."
The doctor nodded toward him as he left the museum. "I am sorry, Mr. Tivan."
Tivan lit a cherry cigarette before going into his quarters where I laid. He sat on the bed, facing me and blew out a few smoke rings. "Heulwen."
Tivan sighed loudly. "Heulwen."
I stirred slowly, but barely opened my eyes. "Taneleer."
"Why...why didn't you tell me?" Tivan asked, pain in his voice.
"I wanted to tell you but I was weak and ashamed. I knew you'd be furious." I said hesitantly.
The Collector exhaled the smoke from his lungs. "I could never be angry that you are dying. I love you."
My eyes welled up with tears. "I can't leave you like this, Taneleer!"
Taneleer set the cigarette down and cupped my face. "You won't leave me, Heulwen. I can...I can find someone. Surely someone could help you. I promise you will not die. I have more than enough money to get the best doctors to save you. We can get a second opinion, my love. Stay with me, please."