"No, you can stay."

Doe shakes her head, "No, you can stay."

You stare at your best friend for a second, then, "Is Courtney my daughter?"

Doe swallows hard then nods, "Yes. I swear I was going to tell you this week. I wrestled with how for the longest time." She says, her eyes searching your face.

You glance over at Kathryn, and note that there is no surprise in her eyes. She notices you looking and gives you a quick nod. "Was...was I the only one that didn't know?"

"I'm sorry, but...yes. I made sure everyone knew that it was something that I had to tell you. Are...are you mad? If so only be mad at me. Please don't take it out on Courtney. Please?"

You raise your eyebrows, "Why in the everliving hell would I take it out on Courtney? Or you for that matter? In fact why would I be mad to find out that Courtney is my child? I've known her for all of..what? Twenty four hours and I love that girl." Doe smiles in relief. "I love you."

This causes her eyes to spring open again. She swallows hard, "You do? You really do?"

You smile at your oldest friend, "Yes, I always have. I really always have. I don't think there was a day that went by in the last four years that didn't think about you at least three times a day. When I woke up, during quiet moments during lunch, and right before I went to sleep."

Doe stares at you, her breathing erratic. Suddenly she's hugging you tightly, "I thought I was the only one. Oh God did I miss you so much. So much."

A clearing of the throat interrupts you, "I hate to intrude here, but we've finished the examination. She is in good health, and she's asking for her mother and a Mr.John. I'm assuming that's you, sir."

You nod, "Yes. That's me."