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"Maks is awake and talking," Nikolai began "They've got his fever under control They’re doing tests to see if they can figure out what caused it"

"Do they have any ideas?" I asked

Nikolai shook his head, but he did it slowly, so I wasn't sure that he was actually answering ht be…" Nikolai's voice cracked as he tried to get out whatever it was he was saying I gave in to my need to touch him and reached my hand out so I could settle it on his upper arm His skin still felt cold

"Cancer," Nikolai blurted "They think it could be fucking cancer," he choked out

"Nikolai,” I said with a shake of my head because I didn't knohat else to say What could I say? It would be a devastating diagnosis I hadn't evenfor him, for the entire family

I forgot about the fact that I was only Nikolai's job and stepped forward so I could put my arms around him I expected him to resist or keep his body stiff, but to ainsthands clutched o I felt the warainst me

"He'll be okay," I whispered "He'll be okay, Nikolai"

I was certain I felt soainst my skin as Nikolai held on to me That fact was confirmed a few seconds later when he lifted his head and released me so he could wipe at his face

"What now?" I asked

"They're keeping Maks for a few days for observation Oncology will co to stay with hionna take Nattie home"

Nikolai turned and leaned back against the wall He took in a few deep breaths and then said, "Come on, I'll take you home"

“Nikolai, you should stay here I can wait until soo home by myself—"

Nikolai instantly began shaking his head I was all prepared to argue with him when he said, "Please, Jude, I need to do this"