There is a newer version of this story: The Only Gift (2010)

The Only Gift

“Jessica.” His voice echoed through the sterile room, ringing off every smooth wall and perfect corner, off the shimmering window and fading away with a sigh. The clamor of doctors and nurses rushing by sounded faintly through the door. After a pause, he said “I have something for you.” He presented a fabulous velvet red present with a white ribbon around it. Stars and wands danced across all over the gift, something picked out especially for me. For me. It looked small, yet important. It shined with absolute importance. Yet, there was something wrong. Nothing seemed quite right. He was trying hard to cover up his sad voice, I know. His face was never good at keeping in emotions. I remember the time he tried to stay calm during the storm that hit suddenly one time. He was completely mortified. Now it looked as if his face would burst out with sadness, a cold water that would wake up even the mellowest person. “Jess…” His hands, clutching the present tightly, were coming to his face now. I tried to sit up in the bed, reach a hand across, stand up, anything, to tell him I was okay, I love you too. My head never left the pillow. His head sunk like the Titanic. My lips wouldn’t move. His mouth trembled. My expression didn’t change. His face streamed with tears. I was stone still, watching him break down in front of me. “I’m sorry Jessica. I’m sorry I didn’t come soon enough.” My eyes looked out cold, as if I was looking past him. He put the present in my hands. It felt warm, a heartbeat of happiness. “I love you Jessica.” I love you too.