Chapter 10
Laura returned just before five. The doctors had called her. They were gathered outside of James' room, talking in hushed tones. Robbie was asleep in the chair beside the bed. They would have to wake him to do their examination.
Turning, she motioned to Jean. "Can you please wake him? The doctors need to do their examination."
"Laura, shouldn't you be the one?"
With a tight nod of her head, "No, he won't welcome me."
Jean looked at her questioningly but obeyed, "Robbie…Robbie." As he roused, she nodded back toward the doctors, "It's time."
He stood, "I want to be with him."
One of the doctors stepped forward, "Once we turn off the machines, you can return."
Jean took his hand, guiding him gently from the room. He couldn't look at Laura as he passed her. The doctors entered the room and started their examinations. It took about twenty minutes and then they returned to Laura. "There's been no change."
She nodded, had known there wouldn't be. "Do what you need to do?"
"Do you want a few minutes alone with him?"
She shook her head, "No. I think his friend would like to be with him." Nodding toward Robbie to make sure they understood. "Do you need me to stay?"
"No, all of the paperwork is complete."
"His sister has all of the final arrangement details. I've called the funeral home, they are ready."
"Will you be staying?"
She shook her head, "No, we both know he's already gone."
The lead doctor walked over to the small group and started explaining the process to him. Nell turned back to Laura, smiled sadly and waved to her. Laura returned the wave then turned to leave. She managed to slip away, unnoticed by anyone except Nell.