The excitement, the hope in Nick's voice made Mattie's spirit sink farther. She wondered how to explain to him without getting kicked out that she wanted to give his sister a halfway merciful death. Of course, she didn't even need to ponder a way to break the news without also breaking his heart–– that just wasn't possible. But it would be kinder than taking one of the guns he had around here and shooting Alissa like an ailing farm animal. 

"Get out some water," she said softly. She took his hand and put one of the bottles in it, closing his fingers around it. "They'll... they'll make her go to sleep. It's the easiest way. It's–– the kindest way." She was glad it was dark. That'd make it harder to see his expression. But for goodness' sake! It was better than slitting her throat with that dirty knife, wasn't it? Even if something like that would come when she was knocked out. When she couldn't feel anything anymore. 

She swallowed, but her throat was dry. "We can only do one thing for her. Make it a peaceful end."