I wake up around four in the morning a little short of breath because I didn't wear my oxygen. Trying not to disturb Edward, I grab the tubing off the end table and turn the portable oxygen machine on, sucking in a deep breath. I can't help but cough, and I feel the bed move before a hand is placed on my back.

"Are you okay, beautiful?"

He sits up, moving beside me as he rubs my back, and I keep coughing. I grab a tissue and feel disgusting as I try to get the gunk out. Ugh, this is totally sexy. I hate it when he sees me like this because he goes straight into doctor mode.

"I'll be right back," he says, going to get his bag.

He does this every time, and while I appreciate his care, it makes me feel bad for disturbing him. He's back fast enough and kneels in front of me as he pulls his stethoscope out first. He listens adeptly before pulling back.

"How do you feel with the oxygen? Is it helping?"

I nod, clearing my throat. "Yeah. I'm all right."

He smiles half-heartedly and clips the pulse oximeter on my finger. "You will be, but let's not do that again. I'm sorry I didn't tell you to put it on last night."

"I was fine. It just happens. You know that."

My heart isn't pumping well, causing excess fluid in my lungs. It's just a matter of fact. He'll probably adjust my meds again next time I see him, but right now, all he can do is watch me.

"I know, beautiful. Let me prop the pillows up for you."

He takes the instrument off my finger, and I sit up a little more before he builds a wall of pillows behind me, and then I lay back against it. I'm doing better with the oxygen, but of course, the number is still low.

"Slow breaths," he says, and I glare slightly as I try.

I just breathe for a few minutes and start to feel slightly better. He says my O2 sats are at ninety-four, which is much better. After putting his bag away, he climbs back into bed with me and takes me into his arms as we sit against the headboard.

"I love you, beautiful."

I smile softly. "I love you too. I'm doing much better now. I'm sorry I woke you up."

He shakes his head. "Never apologize to me. I'm with you in this fight, Bella, and I want to be there for you. Try to go back to sleep. I've got you."

We slide down a little and toss a pillow, but I'm still elevated as he holds me, and I drift back to sleep.

Thanks to May, Nole, Fran, Brier, and Meg for prereading and Sally for Beta'ing.