"What?" thought Emily, "Joyce Barnes is dead? She was fine just yesterday."
"I can't believe it! I knew this would happen!" shouted Micah.
"Micah, it's okay. Everything's going to be okay," she said wrapping her arms around him.
"This just can't be happening. She won't see us get married, won't see our babies. I can't believe she's gone," sobbed Micah hugging Emily back.
"We'll get through this Micah. I promise," said Emily starting to cry herself.
"Mrs. Woodsen, you ready to go home?" asked Cassandra the next day.
"I think we're both ready," said Frank.
"But before we go, can we stop by Claudia's room?" asked Denise.
Cassandra nodded, "Sure."
Denise walked into Claudia's hospital room, "Hey Claudia?"
She looked up and smiled, "Hey Denise."
"I just wanted to say goodbye before I go home," she said, "And to see how you're doing."
"Doing well," Claudia said, "And thank you."
"For what?"
"For giving me your kidney. Without a second thought," said Claudia tearing up, "How can I ever repay you?"
"You don't have to. You're my best friend and I have no regrets. I'd do it again if I could," said Denise tearing up herself.
"No gift you give me will be better. Thank you so much," said Claudia hugging Denise, "Thank you for giving me my life back."
"You're welcome," said Denise embracing her back.
Joyce's Funeral…
"You okay baby?" asked Emily.
"No. But I guess I have to be," Micah answered sadly. After the opening prayers were said, Micah gave his eulogy, "Mom was the best one a kid could ever have. I know everyone says that, but she really was. She was full of life and spirit and was always optimistic. She was a fighter. She fought against pancreatic cancer until the very end. She never gave up on anything or anyone. She persisted I chase after my dreams and those I love. I love you Mom. We'll all miss you. Rest easy."
"At this time, Dr. Emily Owens would like to speak."
Emily stepped forward and started to speak, "I didn't know Joyce Barnes very long, but when I did know her, she was incredible. Like Micah said, she was optimistic and compassionate and full of life. She would always brighten my day when I was down. And she brought the love of my life into the world. She will always be special to me and she'll live in all of our hearts. We love you Joyce."
The ground over Joyce's coffin was still soft. Only Micah and Emily remained at the cemetery; Will, Cassandra, AJ, Tyra the chief, and Dr. Bandari had left them alone.
"I love you Mom," said Micah placing flowers in front of the tombstone, "Don't worry. I'll take care of Emily."
Emily crouched down next to Micah and took is hand and kissed it, "At least she's out of pain."
"I know," he said as thick, salty tears flowed down his cheeks, "How will we get through this?"
"Together. I'm here for you sweetheart," said Emily, "I'll never leave you."
Sorry for the sad chapter, but this will test how strong Micah and Emily are together. Read and review as always!