Catherine woke up and Steve was no longer in bed. She checked the time and it was already 10:00 a.m.

She sat on the bed and Steve came into the room, carrying a tray.

Good morning, Lieutenant! Steve said.

Good morning, Commander! What is it? Catherine said, smiling.

Steve sat down beside her.

This is our breakfast. And that's the first smile I've seen since I arrived. Steve said touching her lips.

It's a lot of trouble, Steve. But half of them are already solved just because you're here. Catherine said, leaning her forehead against Steve's forehead.

Is good to hear that. Steve said, kissing her at length.

I missed your kisses so much. Catherine said.

Let's make up for lost time. But first you'll eat. I'm very worried about your health. I don't want you to get sick either. Steve said taking the tray with breakfast.

It's all right. I'm going to eat. Catherine said.

So let's start. Steve said.

Steve and Catherine had breakfast.

Thank you, Steve. It was very good.

Glad you like. Where are your dogs?

I gave them to the children of our neighbor. My mother was no longer taking care of them after my father died. The kids really like Bob and Bella.

I'm sorry, Cath. I know you like them, too.

Yes, I really like them. But I have to think about what's best for them. I go to the neighbor's house and see them from time to time. Catherine said.

Steve was stroking her head, running his hands through her hair.

Catherine smiled at him.

I like your hair. Steve said.

When do you have to leave? Catherine asked.

I have five more days to be with you.

I have to stay in the hospital. My aunt only comes every two days.

No problem. I will go to the hospital every day to visit your mother and see you. Steve said.

You can stay here. I do not want you to go to a hotel. Catherine said.

All right, I'll do whatever you want. Steve said.

So kiss me, love me.

But don't we have to go to the hospital? Steve asked.

We have some time. You don't want me, why did Billy touch me?

Of course I want you. And I said we wouldn't talk about Billy again.

I'm sorry. Catherine said.

Come here. Let's make up for a little bit of wasted time. Steve said kissing her.

Catherine pulled Steve's shirt off and tossed it away.

Two hours later...

Catherine and Steve arrived at the hospital.

Hey, Auntie. Catherine said as she entered her mother's room.

Hey, Catherine. You look so much better today, my dear. Love works miracles.

Yes aunt. I'm feeling better. Catherine said smiling.

How did Mom spend the night? Catherine asked.

She slept most of the time. She asked a lot for you.

Catherine just nodded.

Well, I'm going home. I'll be back the day after tomorrow, Catherine.

All right, Auntie. Go rest. And thanks for everything.

You're welcome. Bye, said Catherine's aunt, kissing her.

Bye, Steve! And thank you for making my niece happy.

Goodbye. Steve said, smiling.

Catherine's aunt left, and Steve laughed.

What's it? Catherine asked.

I think your aunt is very much like your mother.

In the way of being? Yes, they are very similar. They both make you ashamed. Catherine smiled.

Elizabeth woke up a few minutes later.

Catherine!

Hey Mom. I'm here. And Steve is here, too. Catherine said, holding Elizabeth's hand.

Elizabeth looked at Steve.

Hey, Steve!

Hey, mother-in-law. How are you feeling today?

I do not know. I'm a bit confused. Elizabeth said.

But you'll be fine. Steve said kissing her head.

Steve sat down by the window. Catherine approached.

Thank you for treating my mother with affection, Steve.

You would also take good care of my mother if I had a mother. Steve said.

Yes, I would take good care of your mother. Catherine said.

I know that. That's why I like you so much. Steve said, smiling.