“I… I’m stepping away from the shows,” he explained. “I don’t just want to donate my marrow; I want to be there for you and Jimi after the transplant. I looked it up—it’s a critical time. Maybe we could… take turns in isolation.”

“I will never leave my son’s side—not for a single second—to make room for you.”

“I… understand. Even so, I’ll be right outside, in case you need anything. I’ll talk to the doctor about paying for a room next to yours. And… ...