I still don't quite know how I managed to go back into the master bedchamber. When I did go back in, Thomas and Cristabel were each holding one of the twins, while Mary lay on the four-poster, her eyes glassy and breathing strained. I went over to her and sat down beside her, caressing her pale face with my fingertips.

"William…"

"I'm right here Mary." I said softly. "I'm right beside you."

"If I don't' make it.."

"Mary don't think about it."

"William, please.."

"Mary-"

"If I don't' make it, please, don't go. You'll be needed here."

"Mary don't talk like that. You'll make it-"

"Promise me, William." She said, cutting me off in a strangely firm voice.

"I… I promise." I replied in a choked voice. "Just.. don't go. Please! Hold on!"

"I'm.. trying…" She replied weakly, her breathing becoming even more compromised.

I glanced over at Edward, Thomas, and Cristabel. Edward gave me a nod and left the room with his wife and my brother close behind him.

I turned back to Mary, taking her hand in mine. She closed her eyes, swallowing with difficulty.

"Where are the twins?"

"Hush, Mary; save your strength. They're with Edward, Cristabel, and Thomas."

Mary nodded vaguely, closing her eyes again.

"William… I'm so tired.."

I went white.

"So tired…."

"Mary, stay with me.. Mary…MARY!