"I know. But I'll still wonder. We hardly knew for sure, and then . . . it was over . . ."

Silence.

"I should check the bleeding."

"No. I don't need you to be my healer right now, Aragorn. I need you to hold me."

"Yes . . . of course. I'm sorry."

Shifting, holding, clinging. Shared grief, hot tears, a soggy handkerchief. Comfort in caresses and gentle kisses.

"This won't mean I can't . . . Will we still be able . . . ?"

"We will certainly try again. After you've healed. When you're ready."

"Good." A lingering sigh. "I do still want a baby."