Luke held Ruth's hand as he sat by her bedside in her room. "Hey, Ruthie. I hope you can hear me. I'm sorry I never told you how I felt. And now it might be too late." He paused, unsure of what to say. "Guess what? I wrote a song. I'm still working on the title. Ruthie, I can't lose you. I need you. The band needs you."
He took a moment to study her. She was pale and her breaths were ragged. It was only a matter of time now.
Luke let out a shaky breath. "I finished the last song you were working on. I think you would like how it turned out. At least, that's what I tell myself."
He placed a hand to her cheek and stood with a sad smile. He placed a gentle kiss on her lips, but got no reaction from her.
One final soft breath sounded and then all fell silent for a moment.
Mrs. Peters let out a gasp and kissed the top of her daughter's head.
"I love you, Ruth Emily Peters. And I'm sorry I never told you," Luke whispered sadly as he slowly left the room.