Soon enough, the family, decided to give Stephen a few moments alone with Brooklyn. He didn't want to be alone with her. It felt like a dream, as if.. she wasn't there. "Why.." he started, hoarsely. "Why didn't you let them kill me instead?" He slowly looked to her. "You are needed so much more than I, Brooke. I love you, but, I was willing to make that sacrifice." He explained. "I almost lost you. What did you think I was going to do? Because it sure wouldn't be to live on. I would have died today, right along with you." He wiped tears away, and shook his head, still holding her hand.