It's time to wake up, sweetheart.

   But, I'm so peaceful. Mom, I don't want to get up.

   Listen to your mother, Kara. You need to wake up.

   But I won't see you again, dad!

   We're always with you, dear. No matter what, we are always by your side. But your friends are waiting for you. Your love is waiting for you.

   Leo? How is that love ever going to work?

   Heh. You'll be surprised. Go on. Your mom and I are so proud of you. We love you so much! We'll be watching over you.

   I love you! I love you!

                  * * *

   A bright light was the first thing Kara saw as her eyes opened. As her eyes focused, she saw that she was in a hospital room. Flowers, cards, and balloons were all over the room, giving color to the otherwise white room.

   “Kara? You're awake!” Kara slowly turned her head and was met with the smiling face of April. “You had us worried for a little bit there. The doctors weren't sure if you would be able to survive all the trauma.” Kara's hand moved along the top of the blanket, coming to rest on her stomach. “You were really lucky. The bullet somehow missed all the vital organs, but it lodged near your spinal chord. They had to fly in a specialist surgeon to perform the surgery. The probability of you being paralyzed was very high. But the surgeon did it!” Tears suddenly filled April's eyes. “I'm so glad you're awake.”

   “She's awake?” The two turned as Casey walked into the room, a huge bouquet of flowers in his arms. “I know a certain someone who'll be very glad to hear that!” Hope suddenly flooded through Kara. She turned quickly to April, wincing slightly as pain from her wounds laced through her. She opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out.

   “Casey, get Kara some water.” April said; Casey moved to a table over in the corner that had a plastic pitcher and a cup. “Yes. They are fine. The chamber opened almost right after you passed out.” Kara let out a sigh of relief. Casey handed her the glass of water, which she took and slowly sipped, wetting her throat.

   “Oh! Since you are awake, I'll just give these to you!” Casey handed Kara the giant bouquet, which she took after handing the glass to April. “The card's there in the middle.” Kara took the card and read it. Please wake up soon. I know that you can get through this. I didn't leave you––don't leave me. I'll be waiting when you come home. ––Leo Tears of relief and happiness began to fall down Kara's cheeks.

   “He's alive. Thank goodness he's alive.” She buried her face in the flowers, breathing the scent in deeply. April stood.

   “I'm going to go get the nurse.” She gave Kara's hand a squeeze. “Get better fast. Those four are back at your house preparing it for when you come home. Don't make them wait too long.” Kara grinned and laughed softly. She looked back at the card in her hand.

   “Don't worry. I won't make them wait.”