_{Five years later in Joel’s POV}

I still haven’t told her I know. After 5 years, still nothing.

And to make matters worse in an attempt to hide this secret she hasn’t taking all of her AZT .

I’ve read tons of info from countless sites about AIDS , and every one says the same thing: an early death.

Why? Why my dear sweet Hazel and her innocent son? What have they done wrong in the world?

I now always held her closer and longer, kissed her more deeply, knowing that I eventually never can again.

I stare into her unusual color eyes, like a light sea green, praying I can still do that another day.

This whole thing is making me realize that if I want to propose to her, I better do it soon.

For soon, I might not be able to.