On Borrowed Time (Plenty of Time series, book 2)

by TMNT-Queen

She knows what's coming - has known for a long time. One way or another, one of them is going to die. But she'd rather it be her than the leader that they all need and love so desperately. Sapphire is determined to keep his candle burning...no matter what the cost. (Rated T just to be safe.)

1. Prologue

Prologue

"Are you really willing to lose everything?"

"I've already lost everything. And I can't - won't - lose him, too."

"There's no way I could give you anesthesia for it. It would interfere with the transfer. You'd be in a lot of pain."

A small, harsh laugh escapes soft pink lips. The sound is foreign and wrong in the dimness of the lab. "Believe me, I'm used to it."

"You really are certain about this, aren't you?"

"Without him, they'll be broken. And I can't let that happen."

Silence.

"You once said you knew I'd make the right choice. This is the right choice. I know it is. And you know it, too. You don't want to lose him any more than I do."

"...All right. Thursday at midnight. Door's open."

Then the voice is gone, and she's alone. Her blue-grey eyes glint with the shine of ill-concealed tears as she shuts off the phone and releases a shaky breath. It's done.

There's a knock on the door and a familiar purple-banded face pops into the room. "Hey, Saph, the guys and I were wondering if you wanted any particular toppings on your- is everything okay?"

"Yeah," she lies, forcing a smile. "It's great." It will be, anyway. Everything will be just fine.

Because she made a promise, and she's going to keep it. No matter what the cost.