Unfortunately, Marie's condition had gotten worse, and she had been admitted into the hospital. Now, to Jess's utter distaste Mick was visiting her.
"What's he doing in here?" she demanded.
"He's my friend," Marie replied simply.
Jess was about so say something more when Austin cut in.
"What's so cruel?" he asked.
"Just... just as a joke we decided to find out what blood type I am," Mick answered.
"He's the same as me," Marie smiled.
"What?" asked Jess, her eyes widening.
"But they won't let me donate because I'm only fourteen," Mick groaned.
"You're Marie's type?" asked Austin.
Mick nodded, sighing.
"It's not fair. It's really not fair."
Jess was stunned. She really didn't want to know what to do with herself. She was divided in between wanted to shout at him to leave her daughter alone and hugging him! Not that it would make a lot of difference - if he wasn't allowed to donate it couldn't save Marie, but still.
Austin grinned to himself, realising she was ambivalent. He tousled Marie's hair.
"Do you have any relatives who might have the same type who wouldn't mind donating?" he asked Mick.
Mick frowned and thought for a moment.
"No, I... oh wait, I have a sister who might. I haven't seen her in years though, because she ran off after a fight with Dad."
Austin grinned to himself, careful not to let Jess see. That was the best reference he could have possibly given his sister in Jess's eyes, no doubt!
"Do you have any idea where to contact her?"
"Uhh, I could trying calling up some of her old friends... or maybe Mom knows..." then he grinned at Marie. "I'll leave you alone with your 'rents and go find out now, what about that?"
Marie smiled at him.
"Sure."
"I'll talk to you later."
"I'll miss you."
"I'll miss you more!" Mick grinned, waving and leaving the room.
Marie smiled happily to herself. Jess and Austin's eyes met, uncertain of what to make of the exchange that just passed.