I swallowed loudly, knowing it was my turn to say good-bye. I walked up to her, “Hazel. I-I don’t want to say goodbye.”

“Then don’t.” I stroked Hazel’s beautiful golden hair as I stared into her sea green eyes, trying to memorize every feature of hers, “I love you and will love you forever.”

“As will I Joel,” She laughed, the laugh soon turning to a cough, “Thanks for picking up that can of SpaghettiO’s.”

I laughed at the thought of that memory, “Your welcome honey…You know what?”

“Huh?”

“You are the strongest person I know.” Hazel closed her eyes, obviously being tired, physically and mentally, “Thank you Joel.”

I studied her a little longer, and understood. If I love Hazel so much…I’d be willing to give her up. She’s dealt with this pain long enough, time for her to be free, “Hazel, I’m going to set you free now.” I knelt down to kiss her lightly on the lips, “Good-bye my love.”

“Good-bye Joel.”

_{That night the doctor called, saying Hazel had passed away peacefully in her sleep.}