Water streamed down Garrett’s face, but he didn’t hesitate. “You were already dying. I’m just done dying beside you.” Then he turned and climbed back into the car. Eleanor crawled toward the open door, screaming his name. For one moment, Garrett looked back, and she saw a trace of the husband who had once held her hand through hospital appointments. Then the engine roared, and his taillights disappeared into the storm.

Eleanor was alone without shoes, a phone, a purse, or enough strength to stand. Thunder shook the darkness as she lay soaked beside the flooded highway, each movement sending pain through her body. Five terrifying minutes passed before headlights appeared. Calvin Brooks, returning home after a late produce delivery, initially thought something beside the highway was a torn tarp. Then he saw it move. He slammed on his brakes, jumped from his truck, and ran into the rain.