Kate looked up at Susan, amazed she was going to stay inside the plane. “I do love you, Susan,” Kate said.

“Ditto, Katie-bear. I always knew you did. That’s why I’m here.”

The flames grew closer and black smoke hung over them like a dark, suffocating blanket. Her clothing on fire, and her lungs filled with smoke and hot fumes, Susan covered Kate with her body to protect her.

Kate awoke as a spattering of A-FFF fire-fighting foam sprayed her on the face. The foam bubbled around her, putting out the fire and clearing the way for the firefighters. They entered the plane, pulled Susan’s limp body out, and returned for Kate moments later. She passed out as they pried her loose with a hydraulic rescue tool.

Kate awoke inside the ambulance. Her face was burned and the hair above her forehead was singed. “Susan?!” she said between labored breaths. “Susan?!”

“Over here,” Susan said. She stood above Kate and gently touched her cheek. “I made it, honey, and they think you might pull through. I love you!”