His first reaction was to shake his hand and then wince as he realized it was still broken. His next instantaneous reaction was to grab for his friend, to pull her tight and hold on. But someone else was already doing that. His blue eyes narrowed into slits as he disengaged himself from his position at the foot of the bed. Standing rather shakily, he moved to where James was still holding Sue. "Down." It wasn't a request.
Nodding, the silent man gently eased himself from behind the unconscious woman and laid her back on the pillows. He reached over and let the railing on Hector's bed drop down then pulled the gurney tightly to it.
Bobby grabbed his arm. "I thought you said she's okay."
A nod.
"Then why'd she let go?"
'Time for him to see just her. Not you.' He pointed to the sailor.
Hector had relaxed out of his curled up state. He was still on his side facing Sue but calm. Her right hand was clasped tightly in his left one.
'Watch. Wait. Hope.' The silent man pulled a chair next to the head of the bed so the Aussie could sit. 'Pray.'
