"What do you mean?"

"Debbie won't be leaving the hospital anytime soon. And that means Bill ... "

"I know. Gordon Obie gave me the heads-up."

Jack paused. "It's been decided?"

She nodded. "Bill's coming home. I'll replace him on the next flight." Her gaze drifted toward the ICU. "They have two kids," she said softly. "He can't stay up there. Not for another three months."

"You're not ready. You haven't had time -- "

"I'll be ready." She turned.

"Emma." He reached out to stop her, and the touch of his hand took her by surprise. She looked back at him. At once he released her.

"When are you leaving for Kennedy?" he asked.

"A week. Quarantine." He looked stunned. He said nothing, still trying to absorb the news.

"That reminds me," she said. "Could you take care of Humphrey while I'm gone?"

"Why not a kennel?"

"It's cruel to keep a cat penned up for three months."

"Has the little monster been declawed yet?"

"Come on, Jack. He only shreds things when he's feeling ignored. Pay attention to him, and he'll leave your furniture alone."

Jack glanced up as a page was announced over the address system, "Dr. McCallum to ER. Dr. McCallum to ER."

"I guess you have to go," she said, already turning away.

"Wait. This is happening so fast. We haven't had time to talk."

"If it's about the divorce, my lawyer can answer any questions while I'm gone."

"No." He startled her with his sharp note of anger. "No, I don't want to talk to your lawyer!"

"Then what do you need to tell me?" He stared at her for a moment, as though hunting for words.

"It's about this mission," he finally said. "It's too rushed. It doesn't feel right to me."

"What does that mean?"

"You're a last-minute replacement. You're going up with a different crew."