Ever squeezed my shoulder.

"I intend to stay by her side and take care of her until she's awake."

Quiet agreement was murmured as they nodded their heads. Eagerness to help was transparent on their faces.

From the corner of my eye, I saw Gwen carefully make her way through the crowd toward me. Once she reached my side, her little chin came up, fierce determination in her expression. "Leander, let me help you care for her."

I hesitated. "That's okay. I can handle it."

Clearly unwilling to take no for an answer, she continued, "Leander, I know you love her but she is going to need more care than...