The last patient I had that died on me, she kept herself pretty strong 'til the end, but when I held her hand she was shaking like a leaf. She knew what was coming, but she smiled for me before she closed her eyes, anyway.

[ his grip tightens a little, almost involuntarily. he hasn't told this story, any part of this story, to anyone. ]

It's alright to be scared, Jim. Everyone is. I'd be more scared for you if you weren't.