Howie returned to his sisters room, trying his best to quietly tiptoe in when he realized Danas eyes were closed.

Hi, Howie, she said suddenly, not opening her eyes, causing Howie to jump.

Dana! Howie replied, startled. I thought you were asleep.

Dana opened one eye. Do you really think I could sleep that well here?

Listening to the bustling sounds coming from the hallway, Howie had to agree. Yeah, I suppose youre right. I guess wed better get used to it, huh?

The eye opened again, and the eyebrow above it arched. We?

Howie nodded and took a seat beside Dana. Yes, we. Since Ill be staying here with you, Id better get used to it.

Who said you were staying here? Dana asked, opening both eyes and cocking her head.

I did. Besides, its only a few days until you get out of here. It wont be so bad. We could have fun, Howie replied with a grin. Turning serious, he said, Besides, do you really think Id let my big sister stay here all by herself?

Dana found his hand and squeezed it. Thank you, she told him, trying to keep her voice from shaking. She had thought she wanted nothing more than to be alone and wallow in her misery, but she suddenly realized that what she really wanted, or perhaps needed, was to have the ones who loved her beside her.

Howie squeezed her hand in return and looked to his feet awkwardly, fighting back emotion. Clearing his throat, he glanced back up and asked with a little grin, So, how was the sponge bath? Think you could convince one of these nurses to hook me up with one?

Dana felt herself laughing for the first time since the accident. Oh, Howie. Id kick your ***** right now if I could.

*********************************************

Howie met Alice out in the hallway as she was heading back to Danas room. Hey, How. Is Dana a little moreagreeable?

You could say that. Its still sinking in, but you can talk to her without her biting your head off now. I made her laugh, Howie replied, looking proud.