I tried to move closer, but the sound of Betty’s choked sob froze me. "Ashton," she cried, her voice breaking.

My heart shattered into pieces. Slowly, I lifted my head to look at him. His eyes, which had been fluttering moments before, were now half-closed. Motionless. The hand that had rested by the edge of the bed now hung limp, lifeless at his side.

"Ashton," I whispered, my voice trembling.

But there was no response.

I shook my head, ...