#Chapter 232: Endings & Beginnings

Iris & Arthur Iris When we reach Augustine’s hospital room, we pause outside. Through the small window in the door, I can see her lying in the bed, tubes and wires connecting her to various machines. She looks so small, so fragile. “Are you ready?” Arthur asks softly. I take a deep breath and nod. I’ll never be ready to say goodbye to Augustine, but we can’t put this off. The doctor meets us at the door. “She’s been asking for you,” she says. “We’ve made her as comfortable as possible, but I’m afraid there’s nothing more we can do. The bleeding in her brain is too extensive.” “How long?” Arthur asks. “Hours at most,” the doctor replies. “I’m very sorry.” Cliff makes a small, pained sound behind us. I reach back and squeeze his hand. He and Augustine have been friends for decades; this is hitting him just as hard as it’s hitting me. We enter the room quietly. Augustine’s eyes are closed, her breathing shallow. I approach the bed and gent