Lara and Tony were shocked into silence. Ben looked at Tony as if to say he
was sorry but no words came out his mouth.

Tony: Ben. Why didn't you say something? Why didn't you .

Lara: Ben this is a very serious condition you shouldn't have kept it a secret from us. We can help you Ben and it would have been easier if we caught it earlier.

Ben: You can't help me. Now please I feel fine I really have to go.

Lara: We'd like to keep you over night Ben to make sure and we can perform surgery to remove the cancer and implant a replacement windpipe. It's not easy but .

Ben: No you don't understand you can't help me because in 2 weeks from now I'll be dead! That's why I have to go now.

Tony: Ben. You're not. I mean you cant. Ben I love you, you can't die.

Ben: I'm sorry Tony. Now I'd like to discharge myself if there is no medical reason why I cant go.

Lara: Certainly.

Tony: No you can't go! You have to stay and get better Ben

Ben: Tony I'm not going to get better. Now I have a long trip and I need to make a telephone call so if you don't mind!

Lara: I'll get Anna to fetch your things. If you're sure Ben?

Ben: Positively

Lara: Ok. ANNA

Tony: NO! He is staying here. He is going to get better.

Anna: Yeah. You called me Lara

Lara: Yes. Can you go and get Mr Saunders's things please

Anna: Sure.

Tony: No! Anna don't!

Anna: What?

Lara: Go and get Bens things Anna

(Anna Leaves)

Tony: NO

Ben: Tony! Please just let me go. I can't stand seeing you upset. I have to go

Tony: Go? Go where?

Ben: I'm going back to Scotland Tony. I need to be with my family.

Tony: Scotland? But I, I'll never see you again!

Ben: (tears forming in his eyes) That's why I have to go. It's easier this way, I promise. We're doing the right thing.

Tony: (starting to cry) How can it be right when we're not together Ben? How can it be easier when I'm not with you? How am I supposed to live when your not here?

Ben: I'm sorry Tony. I love you.

Anna: Your things Ben

Ben: Thanks Anna

Lara: Ok then Ben. Safe journey I suppose um I'll wait out here while you get changed

Tony: Yeah I best go too um don't leave yet will you I mean

Ben leaned over to Tony and kissed his trembling lips holding his warm body
close to his. He pulled him closer and whispered in his ear

Ben: Goodbye Tony