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“But he also is thebest judge of character that I know. So that’s why I know you must be a good guy. It’s a shame my parents refuse to get that. But that’s fine, you know? I didn’t think they’d approve of me being with Pell. They had to deal with it. Eventually, they’ll have to face up to the fact that you and Christophe are together forgood.”

His words mademe feel warm inside. “Thanks,” Isaid.

The doorto the examination room opened, and Pell pushed Mom out in her wheelchair. She wore a wide smile on her face, and I perkedup.

“Well,”Pell said. “We have some news. Ah, maybe Eliza, you’d like to tellMason?”

“Yes, doctor. Mason, it’s treatable,”she said, beaming. “Doctor Darkclaw says I’ll be able to walkagain.”

My mouth dropped open.I ran over to Mom and hugged her tightly. “That’s amazing! Mom, I can’t believeit.”

“It’ll takeseveral months of treatment and therapy,” Pell said. “But I believe it can be done here with us inUrsidcomb.”

“That’s so wonderful,”was all I could say. I was overwhelmed. Mom hugged me as tightly as she could, and I could hear her cryingsoftly.

“I’msorry you’ve had to go through so much for me, Mason,” shesaid.

“No,Mom. No. I’d do it all again in aheartbeat.”