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Prologue

Crenshaw

Goddammit, I hate this place, I think to myself as I walk down the hallway Even the dozens of pictures framed on the walls can’t mask the dread

No one likes hospitals, but I loathe them, especially this one They say it has the best pediatric oncology prograras inme that it’s tihtens at the thought of hi alone

When I round the corner, I see one faht sh the doors and stop to washher

“Crenshaw, he’s been excited about you co As soon as your e” She pats ly “He hasn’t shut up”

“He just wants to win my money” I take the stack of cards fro to learn Gin Rummy”

“He’ll love that Really love that” She gives me another smile

Nick is already in his chair with a nurse working on his catheter when I walk in He gives me a fist pu

“What’s up, fighter?”

“Well, I’ me”

“No can do Doctor told Moo hoht we could learn soames” I place the cards on the table between us and lean back to slide the curtain closed

“Leave it open today,” he tells me as another nurse co his lines and drawing his labs

I look around, trying to find anything to watch but the wo him My throat starts to close, and I sn the e inside

This is not fair

Life is not fair

He’s fourteen, for God’s sake He should be worrying about what he’s doing on fall break, not cell counts and helobin levels

“If you don’t stop, you’re not co blood

“Stop what?” I struggle to sound normal

“I see it, Ren You’re easy to read Moether I need you and Mathis to be stronger”