Chapter 22

I stood alone, looking at my brother's haggard face.

Maybe if I hadn't been so preoccupied with working so much. Maybe if I had paid more attention to him. Maybe I would have noticed any sign that something was wrong. But with the exception of the abdominal pain that David had presented, I couldn't see any other signs in his health. He always seemed like the usual intelligent, kind little boy. Willing to help me and always trying to make things easier for me.

I stroked his knuckles and swallowed back a sob. His little face was serene and even though he was so haggard, he was still beautiful, like a little angel.

I closed my eyelids and begged God not to let that unknown evil take my brother away from me. I couldn't be strong enough to cope with another loss.

I opened my eyes again and placed a kiss on David's hand. Then I let my head fall back a little on the mattress of the bed as I felt the tears wet the sheet beneath my eyes. My little neutral Jimmy was strong. He wouldn't leave me