She was lightheaded. Soon she would pass out and then if Wood didn't lose his nerve and stop too soon, it would be the end. The end of her pain, her fear, her struggle. She was ready. As she closed her eyes she thought about her husband and her son again and wished them nothing but happiness. Loud alarms sounded throughout the room, startling William enough that he let go of her throat. Hermione could hear shouts down the corridor and what sounded like running footsteps. Jumping off the bed as if it was on fire, he stared down at her with panic as she gasped and choked at the air filling her lungs.