Shane was becoming upset.  She didn’t know why she couldn’t get the strength to call Carmen’s name, but now she desperately wanted to get the Latina’s attention. 

Carmen was staring out into the sky.  If I get the opportunity, I’m going to let Shane know that she is loved and cared for. I am going to stick by her while she recovers and help her through the therapy. Its gonna be tough though, Carmen thought.  They still had not resolved anything, but she knew that she couldn’t work things out with Shane until she was feeling better.  Out of the corner of her eye, she caught a movement.

With every ounce of strength she could muster. Shane managed a slip of paper from the bedstand next to her. Her arms and hands felt like lead, but with the effort she put forth, she managed to brush the slip of paper onto the floor. Though it didn’t make any noise, the light sweep of the paper was enough to break Carmen from her trance as she turned from her stance at the window to look at the bed where Shane lay.

Staring up at her were those large sad eyes that Carmen loved to watch light up every time they were around each other. Those eyes that would dance with laughter whenever she made Shane smile or feel good.  Those eyes were looking at her now with such intensity that Carmen let out a small gasp when she realized that she had finally awaken.

“Shane!”  Carmen rushed to the bedside and quickly put her hand on top of Shane’s.  “Oh my God, am I glad to see you! You had me so scared – but I knew it was just a matter of time before you came back to me” Carmen said before she realized the significance of the words.  But she meant them.  The days spent at the hospital felt like she had been holding one huge long breath. And now, she could exhale.

“Let me get the nurse and the doctor. I want them to know you’re awake!” Carmen said gleefully.  But she was halted in her place as Shane pulled her hand, urging her to stay where she was. “What is it, baby?  Are you in pain?” Carmen asked.  Carmen had all but forgotten that the doctor said that Shane would have to re-learn her speech.  Only she was quickly reminded when Shane opened her mouth to say something, but let out a huge sigh instead at the strength it was taking her to do it.