Chapter 13

Stella hugs Patches before her surgery, while her parents pace around nervously. She wishes she could get back the happier version of her parents from before Abby’s death. As her parents wish her luck, Stella is wheeled into the operation theater. She is surprised when Will sneaks in, disguised in scrubs and a mask. He tells her he is there to sing “Bushel and a Peck” to Stella, the song Abby always sang to her. Stella tells him the song is an old one her grandmother used to sing them. Moved by Will’s gesture, Stella touches fingers with him. As Stella goes under the anesthetic, Will quietly leaves the room. Stella feels Abby’s presence all around her.

Chapter 14

Will recognizes Stella’s parents in the waiting room. He notes that they are bickering furiously. Barb comes in and admonishes them for being so petty while Stella fights for her life. Diane tells Barb that she can’t bear to look at Stella’s father, Tom, because he reminds her of Abby. On the other hand, Diane reminds Tom of Stella. Grief has caused Diane and Tom to dislike each other. Barb reminds them that Stella is still alive and that they have to act like responsible parents. She notices Will in the waiting room and pulls him out. Barb is furious that Will has been around Stella, risking her life. She tells him about all the young CF patients she has lost over the years. Will decides to stay away from Stella