Chapter Seven

Ruthie didn't know how her life could possibly go on. Martin had been in the hospital for about four hours, and the doctors were unsure if Martin would make it.

Ruthie loved Martin with all her heart, and he knew it. At this moment, she hated Mac so much, that words couldn't describe her anger.

Mac had gotten back to reality and was sitting across from Ruthie, his head in his hands. He was so angry with himself for what he did. He couldn't believe that his best friend in the entire world was in the hospital, and only he was to blame. Mac would never forgive himself.

For the first time in hours, Ruthie spoke up. "Why? Why did you do it?" Tears were running down her face.

Mac shook his head. "I don't know why. I really don't even remember exactly how it happened."

"I hate you so much right now."

"I don't blame you. I hate myself too."

A nurse walked over to Ruthie and Mac.

"Excuse me, are you here for Martin Brewer?"

Ruthie and Mac nodded.

"Is he alright?" Ruthie asked.

"Well, he just woke up. He wants to see a Ruthie, which I'm guessing is you."

"What about a Mac?" Mac asked.

"Nothing about you, sir."

Ruthie went with the nurse to Martin's room. Her heart just about broke when seeing him. Tubes were stuck in him in every which way, and she couldn't imagine the pain he was facing.

"Martin!" She ran over to kiss him.

"Watch the tubes," Martin chuckled softly, his voice only a whisper.

"How are you?" Ruthie asked him.

"How do you think? One of my best friends hit me with a car. I'm pretty horrible."

"I'm glad you're talking, and alive!"

"So am I," Martin agreed.

"Do you know anything about what's going to happen?"

"Bits and pieces. Not quite sure though."

Martin tried to smile.

Martin's doctor had just walked in.

"How are you doing Mr. Brewer?"

"Fine."

"That's good. Now, who is this charming young woman?"

"My fiancee, Ruthie." Martin grinned. He loved saying that.

Ruthie smiled. "Ruthie Camden. Nice to meet you." She stuck out her hand and shook the doctor's.

"Am I going to be alright?" Martin asked.

"Well, you are going to be on meds for a couple months, but that's just about it. You broke your arm, but not that seriously. We'll keep you overnight to make sure everything's alright, but otherwise you'll be released tomorrow."

Martin and Ruthie were so excited to hear that. Not that he'd be on meds, but that overall he was fine.

"Thanks Doc," Martin said.

"No problem," the doctor replied. "I'll check on you in an hour or so," he said as he walked out the door.

"Martin?"

"Yes, Ruthie?"

"I was thinking. I was so close to losing you today. I couldn't imagine life without you." Ruthie starting crying.

"Yeah. I was pretty scared, too."

"I don't want that to ever happen again," Ruthie continued.

"Neither do I."

"So, I was thinking, do you want to get married sooner?" Ruthie asked.

"How soon were you thinking?" Martin asked her.

"How soon do you want?" Ruthie questioned.

"You know I'd marry you this second if I could."

"How about tomorrow?"