Tom was breathing better. Joe was sure of it. He sat and watched the rise and fall of the boy's chest. Anna sat on the other side and held Tom's arm. Joe didn't know what he thought of her determination that she was marrying Tom. They were just kids. Yet she had been here every day since they brought him in. She sung healing over him until she lost her voice and her friends took over. If it worked out, Joe thought he approved.

"Hi Joe." He turned to see Ella walking into the ...