Julian stood completely frozen beside the high hospital bed. The quiet room felt colder than the icy mountain air outside. He looked down at the shiny platinum band on his left ring finger, the heavy ring that bound his heart and soul to Evelyn forever.

Clara reached her pale, thin hand out, her small fingers touching the cool metal. "Take it off, Thomas," she urged again, her voice rising in sharp demand. "We are engaged, not married. Why are you wearing a wedding ring? It makes no sense. Pull it off right now."

Doctor Weber stepped forward nervously, his forehead dripping with sweat. He gave Julian a pleading look, whispering...