"Taro, your life expectancy is less than two months and the chance of you getting a heart is very slim. I'm sorry to tell you this, especially because I've come to know you pretty well, but I think it's time to take risks and then say goodbye," Porter said quietly. "This doesn't mean give up because there is still a chance that a heart will come or that you'll live longer than expected, but this is a chance to take a break and try to ease some of that stress."

"Porter-"

"Taro," Porter said seriously. "I need you to be healthy. Not for the other players, but for yourself."

"Okay, fine."

"Have you asked him out yet?" Taro looked taken aback. "You love him right?"

"He's my best friend," Taro said, knowing exactly who Porter was talking about. There was only one possibility. "He's the only friend I've ever had."

"Taro, you have to take risks."

"Not that kind of risk, Porter," Taro said, leaning over to pat the bed next to her in invitation for Kotaro. "I'll tell my brother and see what he thinks, but if this progresses, I want you to have a full medical team on site when or if we try to push a player back."

"Thank you, Taro. This will be good for you," Porter said.

"I need a promise on that last part, Porter."

"You got it."