Now I was on my knees on the bed grabbing his face. "No, I wasn't leaving you, Joel. I swear. I went there to protect you. Why would I leave you? Dia and I were coming back to the den. I was in and out of consciousness. I never heard you. Please, believe me."

Joel smiled a sad smile and kissed my palm. "I know that now. Dia told me she couldn't keep you awake. I couldn't reach you when you were unconscious. I know I treated you badly and I am sorry."

I didn't know what to say to him. I couldn't imagine how horrible he must have felt....