Sifting through items on his phone, Kyle sat propped up in bed, next to a sleeping Rachel. After a few minutes, Rachel stirred, Kyle shut off his phone, looking over to see Rachel smile at him. "Good morning," she said.

"Morning," Kyle smiled back.

Sitting up with a start, Rachel said, "What time is it?"

"It's still early," Kyle said, "We have awhile yet before we have to go."

"Did you sleep?" Rachel said.

"Not really," Kyle said, "I got maybe an hour. I'm sorry about yesterday, I didn't mean to scare you with that attack I had."

"You don't have to be sorry," Rachel said, "We never talked about your condition or the surgery yesterday and I guess it all built up inside. That's probably why you panicked."

"We weren't being as smart as we thought, trying to pretend everything was okay," Kyle said.

"Maybe we shouldn't have gone out there," Rachel said.

"Are you kidding?" Kyle said, "It's was really great spending time with you like that. It was an amazing weekend."

"I liked being with you too," Rachel said, leaning against him, her head on his shoulder. "Are you okay?" she said.

"Not really sure," Kyle said, "I'm nervous but I'm not falling apart. Are you okay?"

"Yeah, of course," Rachel said.

"That didn't sound very convincing," Kyle said.

"I'm worried about you," Rachel said.

"But I'm going to be okay," Kyle said, "Isn't that the motto of the day?"

"I can't think of a better one," Rachel said. They were silent for a few minutes, before Rachel said, "I guess we need to get ready."

"Not yet," Kyle said, "I want to stay like this for just a bit longer."

As Kyle held Rachel in his arms, they did not need to speak the words to feel the love between them. They both held on to the moment as long as they could as they prepared to face the reality of the day.

Descending the stairs at the house, duffle bag slung over his shoulder, Kyle was surprised to find Billy sitting in the living room.

"There is the man of the hour," Billy said.

"I didn't expect to see you here this early," Kyle said.

"I know what today is," Billy said, "I wanted to see you before you start the big day."

"To say goodbye?" Kyle said, as he put his bag on the floor. He smiled to let Billy know he was joking.

"At least you haven't completely lost your sense of humor," Billy said, "I want you to know that I'm here for you. Regardless, I know you're in for a rough time, I'm here to help."

"I appreciate that," Kyle said.

"You look like you're all packed," Billy said.

"I'm told I can expect to stay a week in the hospital," Kyle said, "I just threw some necessities together."

"This time next week you will be coming home," Billy said.

"Let's hope," Kyle said.

"Are you doing okay?" Billy said.

"Not in the least," Kyle said, "But I know I have to do this. It's the best course of treatment for now. I was so concerned about the surgery, but now I'm worried about how to handle the after effects."

"Your family is here," Billy said, "Don't hesitate to rely on us to get you through this."

"I need you to do something for me," Kyle said, "It would mean a lot."

"Name it," Billy said.

"If something happens to me," Kyle started.

"Kyle…" Billy sighed.

"Please hear me out," Kyle said, "I need to say this. If something happens to me and I'm not here anymore, I need you to promise you will look after Rachel."

"You are going to be here to do that," Billy said.

"If I'm not," Kyle said, "Will you please make sure she's okay. Watch out for her and make sure she finds the happiness she deserves."

"I can't imagine things will turn out badly for you," Billy said.

"I need you to take care of her," Kyle said, "Please, promise me you will."

"Of course I will always look out for her," Billy said, "I don't think it will be necessary, but I promise to take care of her."

"Thank you," Kyle said.

"Rachel is going to be okay," Billy said, "I've seen the way she has stood by you. She's stronger than you might think."

"I thought I heard voices in here," Jack said, walking in from the dining room, "Billy, I didn't know you were stopping by."

"I wanted to see Kyle, before he starts giving the nurses at the hospital a hard time," Billy said, "Because you know he will do exactly that."

"Pouring on the old Abbott charm," Jack smiled. Kyle was quiet, prompting Jack to ask, "You alright?"

"I guess I have to be," Kyle said, "I have never been so nervous in my life."

Putting a comforting hand on Kyle's shoulder, Jack said, "I know. We will get you through today and with any luck this nightmare will be all behind you."

"Even if they remove the tumor the cancer could still be lurking somewhere," Kyle said.

"Whatever follows, we will deal with that too," Jack said, "I am going to be with you every step of the way. I plan to be at the hospital throughout the day."

"It's a lengthy procedure," Kyle said, "You shouldn't have to wait around for all those hours because of me."

"I will be there for all of it," Jack said.

"So will I," Rachel said, walking down the stairs, "You couldn't get rid of us if you tried."

"I'm really grateful the two of you will be with me," Kyle said, sharing a quick kiss with Rachel.

"I can see you are in good hands," Billy said, "I'll be on my way. I will stop by the hospital later." Giving Kyle an affectionate jab on the shoulder, Billy said, "Good luck."

"Thanks," Kyle said.

"I think it's about that time," Jack said.

"All night long, I kept thinking, I can't do this," Kyle said, "I was too scared."

"We are going to be by your side," Rachel said.

"I know," Kyle said, "I don't think I could get through this without either of you."

"You don't have to," Jack said, giving Kyle a hug, Rachel moving in to share a quick hug as well.

"Okay," Kyle said, taking a deep breath, "Let's get this over with."

Changed into his hospital gown, Kyle sat in bed, while Jack stood close by. Knowing they needed some time alone, Rachel had stepped out to give them privacy.

"You look all set," Jack said.

"Looks can be deceiving," Kyle said. Jack was looking at Kyle, not knowing what to say. Kyle broke the silence, "I guess you never thought we would be here like this."

"Some things in life you can't prepare for," Jack said, "It often takes you by surprise."

"That's for sure," Kyle said, "Last night when I was lying awake, I started thinking about Mom. I thought about all the things she would have said to make me feel better. She always knew how to do that when I was a kid. I wish she was here. I could really use her guidance right now." Kyle looked up at his father and said, "Not that you are not helping me, because you are. I'm really glad you're here."

"I wish you mother was here too," Jack said, "But I do believe she is watching over you. She will be especially today."

"That would be nice," Kyle said.

"I was hoping more of the family was going to be here this morning," Jack said.

"Traci and Abby sent me messages," Kyle said, "They both wished me well and said they will come by later today. Actually Abby's message was more like a mini-novel, one of those, 'ever since we were kids', kind of thing. It was still nice of her to send."

"Sounds like Abby," Jack smiled.

Kyle and Jack's attention was diverted by the room door opening and Rachel appeared in the doorway. "Look who I found," Rachel said, followed by Dr. Hastings.

"How's everyone doing today?" Dr. Hastings said. Jack smiled as he moved in for a handshake with the doctor, "Jack, it's good to see you again."

"You as well," Jack said.

"Rachel," Dr. Hastings said, "I see you got him here on time."

"He was awake before I was," Rachel said.

"That's only because I was awake most of the night," Kyle said.

"I see you have been properly prepped," Dr. Hastings said.

Gesturing to himself, Kyle said, "I.V. has been started, a nurse took a pint of my blood, hospital gown on and nerves on overdrive. Yeah, I'm ready."

"I like a patient with a sense of humor," Dr. Hastings said, "We are going to take you in soon. As discussed we will be putting you under anesthesia and the surgery will take a few hours, but no one should be concerned if it takes longer than anticipated. We will do some screening and tests during the surgery and will have more comprehensive understanding of your condition at the end of the day. Any questions?"

"What can we expect when Kyle wakes up?" Jack said.

"Of course he will be very groggy," Dr. Hastings said, "Not just from the surgery, but Kyle will be on different medications for pain and to prevent infection. It's not uncommon for some initial confusion. It will take several hours after surgery before he will be ready for visitors. Better to wait until tomorrow for that. Of course the two of you can be with him following the surgery."

"I apologize in advance if I'm not good company," Kyle said.

"We have your contact information to let you know when the surgery is over," Dr. Hastings said.

"We are not leaving," Rachel said.

"No we are planning to wait here," Jack said.

"Understand this procedure will take a number of hours," Dr. Hastings said, "You are welcome to wait, but it will be a very long time."

"You don't have to stay," Kyle said, "I will still be here."

"As long as you are here, I am here," Rachel said.

"Me too," Jack said.

"Thanks," Kyle said, "It's nice to know that."

"Would we be able to get any updates on how things are going?" Rachel said.

"I don't anticipate any problems," Dr. Hastings said, "I will try to rely information to you, but no promises."

"No news is good news," Jack said.

"Good way to put it" Dr. Hastings said, "Any other questions?"

Kyle shook his head. "Piece of cake," he said.

Orderlies came into the room, as Dr. Hastings said, "It looks like we are ready to move."

Kyle took a nervous deep breath, as he reached out for Rachel's hand. "I will be here when you wake up," she said. She moved into give him a quick kiss.

"We both will," Jack said, "I love you."

"Love you too," Kyle said.

"It's going to be fine," Jack said. Kyle nodded.

As the orderlies wheeled Kyle towards the elevator, Rachel kept a hold on his hand, walking with him. Jack also accompanied the walk. There was no hesitation as Kyle was transported onto the elevator, Kyle and Rachel's hands lingering together until they were separated.

"We will see you soon," Jack said.

"I love you," Rachel said.

"I love you too," Kyle said, the elevator doors closing.

Rachel instantly fell into Jack's arms in a flurry of tears. Jack held Rachel, his effort to comfort her, also a method to calm his own fears.

"Thanks," Rachel said, Jack handing her one of the two coffees he was holding, as they settled in for the long wait.

"I know how busy you are at work," Rachel said, "You can check in with the office, I will stay here."

"Nothing at work is more important than being here for Kyle," Jack said.

"You know what I realized this morning?" Rachel said, "It has been one year since I got out of Fairview. My parole is over at midnight tonight."

"That's wonderful," Jack said, "It must feel good to have that behind you."

"It does," Rachel said, "I will be a free woman again. It has been quite a year. It was this time last year that I first met Kyle. He invited me out for pizza," she laughed, "I think I started to fall for him right then. Little did I know, he would completely win me over."

"There is no way that really happened," Rachel laughed as she and Kyle returned home.

"True story, I swear," Kyle smiled.

"If you say so," Rachel said. Sitting on the couch, she said, "That was really good pizza, but I am stuffed."

"Me too," Kyle said, sitting next to her.

"I'm glad we decided to go out," Rachel said, "It was fun."

"Go out," Kyle mused, "Was that a date?"

"Well, that depends," Rachel said.

"On what?" Kyle said.

"On whether or not you want it to be," Rachel said. She looked at Kyle, who was giving her a look that gave her butterflies.

"What do you want it to be?" Kyle said.

"It's been a long time since I've been on a date," Rachel said, "I'd like to call it that."

"Then it was a date," Kyle said.

"You know what one of the best things about it was?" Rachel said.

"Tell me," Kyle said, anticipating her compliment of his company.

"Riding in that car of yours," Rachel said.

"You like my car," Kyle said.

"No," Rachel said, "I love your car. It's sporty and it's red. I'm jealous of your car."

Kyle laughed and said, "Anytime you want to go for another ride in it, just let me know."

Rachel noticed Kyle was watching her and she gave him a few quick glances, before she said, "Is this what happens after a first date. Stalled conversation?"

"I think so," Kyle said. Shifting his position on the couch closer to Rachel, Kyle continued, "There is a cure for that."

"Is that right?" Rachel said.

"Oh…yeah," Kyle assured.

"Does it work?" Rachel said.

"Usually," Kyle slightly smiled, "There's one way to find out."

Rachel took Kyle's cue, as he leaned in closer to her.

"All that charm," Rachel said, "I imagine he gets that from you." She smiled at Jack.

"Yeah, but I think he's better at it than me," Jack said.

"I never thought I would find someone like him," Rachel said, "Never would have imagined we would be engaged."

"Why do I get the feeling you're up to something?" Rachel said.

"Can't imagine," Kyle said, sitting with her, "I have a Christmas present for you."

"Right now?" Rachel said.

"I am so happy we are together," Kyle said, "I do love you."

"I love you," Rachel said.

"I can't imagine my life without you," Kyle said.

"I'm always going to be here," Rachel said.

"I am glad to hear you say that," Kyle said. He took a deep breath, before getting down on one knee if front of her.

"Kyle…" Rachel said.

Reaching in his pocket, Kyle produced a small box, opening it to reveal a diamond ring.

"Kyle…" Rachel said, again.

"I know this seems really soon," Kyle said, "But I have thought about this every way I could. I know I couldn't possibly love anyone as much as I love you and there is no one I would rather spend my life with." Taking one her hands in his, Kyle continued, "I want to devote the rest of my life to make you as happy as you make me. Rachel, will you marry me?"

"I made him wait until the next day before I gave him my answer," Rachel recalled.

Rachel prepared to give Kyle her answer. "I have never loved anybody this much, I didn't know I could. I can't think of one single reason, not to marry you."

"You mean…?" Kyle anxiously said.

"Kyle the thing is, we have known each other and been together for only a short time," Rachel said, "There are things you don't know about me and I am sure there are things about you that I don't know."

"You're saying no," Kyle said.

"I'm saying maybe we should wait before we talk about marriage," Rachel said, "Sure I could throw caution to the wind and marry you today. Then we could find that we aren't as compatible as we thought and both end up miserable."

"Who says that's going to happen?" Kyle said.

"That is what has happened in every romantic relationship, I have ever had," Rachel said, "It never works out for me. The first time I got married, I was proposed to and married five minutes later. Sure it was wonderful at first, but then it all fell apart. Now I have 12 year old daughter that I haven't seen since she was nine. Not only that, but her father has moved several states away with her. I want to start a relationship with her again. If I married you, then you would be an instant step-father to a pre-teen."

"I didn't forget you have a daughter," Kyle said, "I know you want to be part of her life and I would do whatever I could to help you parent her."

"I haven't seen her in three years," Rachel said, "She's almost a teenager, I don't know how to parent her."

"That's something we could figure out together," Kyle said, "Besides, I am not asking you to marry me in five minutes. The thing is we have been living in the same house, I see you most every day and a lot of nights too. We have been living together and it's been amazing. We love each other, you know we are perfect together. When it's right, it's right. Why not get married?"

"I am so scared things won't work out," Rachel said.

"Then let's make a promise," Kyle said, "We will not let the little things get in our way. We will be honest with each other and if something huge comes up, we will deal with it together. I know we will have problems and disagreements, that's part of life. There is nothing better than the love between you and me. I believe in us."

"You say we're perfect together," Rachel said, "I agree that we are. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't come into my life. You were the first person to be my friend unconditionally. It's been a long time since someone has loved me, but no one has loved me the way you do. No one has made me fall in love the way you have."

Rachel leaned in close to Kyle and said, "So, yes, I will marry you."

Kyle pulled her into a hug. With a huge smile, Kyle looked at her and said, "You said yes."

"I did say that," Rachel smiled. Kyle leaned in and kissed her.

"I guess it's official," Kyle said.

"Not yet," Rachel said, pulling the ring out of her pocket, "You need to put this on for me."

Kyle took the ring and slipped it onto her finger. "Perfect fit," he said.

Sitting in the waiting room, Rachel fidgeted with her engagement ring. "He has to be okay," she said, "He has to be. "

Jack was lost in his thoughts as he paced the halls of the hospital. Recalling a fond memory of Kyle, he smiled, the sound of his name bringing him back to reality. "Jack?"

"Billy," Jack said.

"Any news?" Billy said.

"Not yet," Jack said, "It could be awhile."

"How are you holding up?" Billy said, "Can I get you some coffee?"

"Thanks, I've already had enough coffee to keep me up for days," Jack said.

Spying Rachel sitting alone, Billy said, "How is she doing?"

"Worried," Jack said, "Scared."

Billy walked towards Rachel who stood up when she saw him coming. Reaching her Billy gave her a comforting hug. "Long wait, huh?" Billy said.

"I still can't believe this is really happening," Rachel said.

"I know," Billy said, "Can I get you something? Have you had anything to eat today?"

"No, I'm not very hungry," Rachel said.

"You have to take care of yourself," Billy said.

"The last thing on my mind is food," Rachel said.

"Not even if they have chocolate doughnuts at the coffee shop?" Billy said, "I recall you have never been able to pass those up." He offered her a smile.

"No thanks," Rachel said.

"Do you think Kyle would want you to go without eating?" Billy said.

"Probably not," Rachel said.

"Then let's you and me take a break," Billy said.

"I don't think so," Rachel said.

"Come on, coffee shop awaits," Billy said, offering her his hand.

Rachel sighed as she clasped his hand. "Okay," she said, "Not for too long."

Every time a doctor of nurse would rush by, Jack would watch anxiously, hoping for news about Kyle. As time passed Jack become more restless, standing up he ran his hand through his hair.

"Jack?" a familiar voice spoke from behind him.

Turning around he smiled. "Summer," he said.

"I had to come," Summer said, "I hope I'm not intruding."

"Of course not," Jack said, "I'm sure Kyle appreciates your support."

"I hate that this is happening to him," Summer said.

"Me too," Jack said, "It's nice that you are here, but I'm afraid Kyle is not going to be up for visitors today. He may not even realize you came by."

"I'll know," Summer said. Jack nodded. "I don't suppose this is easy for you either," Summer said. Reaching out she hugged Jack, who reciprocated the comfort.

As Billy and Rachel walked back to the waiting room, Rachel said, "It's been a year."

"A year?" Billy repeated.

"My parole is up," Rachel said.

"That's right," Billy said, "Congratulations."

"Thanks," Rachel said.

"We need good news like that right now," Billy said.

"We were supposed to get married this past weekend," Rachel said.

"You will get married another weekend," Billy said, "A better one."

"We should be on our honeymoon…" Rachel trailed off, looking across the hallway. "Is that Summer?" she said.

Sighing Billy approached her. "Summer," he said.

"Hi Billy," Summer said.

"Do you really think it's a good idea for you to be here?" Billy said.

"Excuse me?" Summer said.

"The last thing anyone needs today is you stirring up trouble," Billy said.

"I am here for Kyle," Summer retorted, "I happen to care about him."

"You make sure that's all it is," Billy said.

"I'm going to attribute your nastiness, due to your concern for your nephew," Summer said, "I am worried about him too."

"It's nice that you came," Rachel said, approaching Summer.

"It's a difficult day for all of us," Jack said.

"I hope I can make it easier," a voice said.

Relief came into Jack's eyes when he saw Ashley. They both reached out for a hug, Ashley consoling her brother saying, "Jack, what you must be going through."

"I'm glad you are here," Jack said.

"Of course I am," Ashley said.

Rachel's eyes drifted down the hall, meeting with someone else's at the same time. Tessa and Rachel walked towards each other, Tessa offering Rachel an affectionate hug.

As he lay in a deep sleep, Kyle became aware his surroundings were changing. He opened his eyes and found himself sitting in an open area. His eyes began to focus, realizing he was at the lake, by the cabin. Noticing he was sitting on the same blanket he had shared with Rachel, he stood up and called her name. Not receiving an answer, Kyle looked out over the water and said, "What's going on?"

"Hello sweetheart," a voice spoke from behind him.

The voice was familiar to Kyle and he instantly found it soothing. He slowly turned around, wonderment in his eyes. The sight before him, of this beautiful woman, giving him a warm smile, nearly brought him to tears.

"Mom?" Kyle said.

Someone in the operating room commented Kyle's blood pressure was falling.