Billy nodded, clutching her just as fiercely. Ronnae's grip did hurt him a little, it was true, but he didn't mind. When he was so close to her, held so tightly, there could be no doubt that they were alive.

Life was precious. They both needed to hold onto it. He shook with another sob, trying to muster up the wits to keep talking.

"He'd probably tell us we're being ridiculous. 'Red, Bossman, cheer up.' Huh?"