“I want him to have a comfortable End Day, and I don’t know if you’re going to give him that space he needs to breathe, or if he’s going to be too on edge around you now.”

“I’m not going to slap linguini out of his hands if that’s what you’re getting at.”

“Does he know that?”

“Why are you punishing me for trying to protect you?”

“I’m not. I love how you got my back. I just want to have his and make sure that he doesn’t die without living first.”

Dalma and I are so used to doing everything together, and whenever we go our own ways, it’s usually her call. This is throwing her off big-time.

“If this is what you want, I’m set. I said my piece.”

I hug her so fast we almost tumble over. “Thanks, D.”

“What can I do for you?”

“Can you find Dr. Emeterio and clue her in? I want to get Valentino out of here before she guilts him into staying.”

Dalma nods. “You better keep your phone on you.”

“I will. Take a cab home and text me when you’re there, okay?” I kiss Dalma’s forehead and turn for the exam room’s door.

“Be really careful, Orion,” Dalma says.

“I’m not going to die today. Bright side of Death-Cast.”

“That doesn’t mean you won’t get hurt . . . or heartbroken.”

Suddenly, everything feels so tense it’s like I might pop into a thousand pieces. I’m embarking on a really dangerous journey to keep someone alive who is destined to die. For every minute I buy him, that’s more time getting to know him. The longer I know him, the harder everything will hurt.

I can’t predict the future like Death-Cast, but I already know that my time with Valentino will end in heartbreak.

Valentino

2:51 a.m.

Orion returns, alone. One star in this bright examination room.

“Are you ready?” he asks.

I’m not sure what he’s talking about. Has Orion changed his stance on how much time I should have before we begin surgery? Or is this Dr. Emeterio making the call? If that’s the case, then I’m not ready. Scarlett is finally on her way, and I can’t go now.

Orion smiles, and I know I must have it wrong.

“Ready for what?” I ask.

“To live.”

“I’m confused.”

“You want to go home and get the place ready for Scarlett, right? Then let’s go do that.”

“You’re coming with me?”

“Just to back you up, but if you really want to go at it alone, I’ll let you do your thing.”