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Kate could have held on forever, that was how good it felt For years, Marahs hugs had been perfunctory at best, or a reward for getting her way This was the real thing When Marah drew back she was crying "Remember when you used to dance with me?"

"When you were really little, Id hold on and twirl you around until you giggled Once I did it so long you threw up all over me "

"We shouldnt have stopped," Marah said "I shouldnt have, I mean "

"None of that," Kate said "Put down the bed rail and sit by me "

Marah struggled with the rail, but finally got it down She climbed into the bed and pulled her knees up

"Hows James?" Kate asked

"Im into Tyler now "

"And is he a nice boy?"

Marah laughed at that "Hes totally hot, if thats what you o?"

"Of course you can But youll have a curfew "

Marah sighed Soh, it seemed, simply couldnt be overcome, not even by cancer "Okay "

Kate stroked her daughters hair, knowing she should say so that would be re extraordinary came to her "Did you apply for a summer job at the theater?"

"Ionna work this summer Ill be home "

"You cant put your life on hold, honey," Kate said quietly "Thats not how this is going to work You said a suet into USC anyway "

Marah shrugged, looked away "I decided to go to UW, like you and Aunt Tully "