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Nate’s head bobbles on its axis. “Laney?”
“I… Oh my god, I had no idea that you were my client, I…” She smiles. “Hi, everyone.”
I knew she looked familiar. It’s been a few years, but she would circulate the club sometimes with Mason. They were together for several years before they had, from what I recall, a pretty nasty breakup which sent Mason packing his bags and following Nate across the country to California.
“Forgive me, I had no idea when the agency sent me over that I was coming for…” She continues to smile, though it’s clear she’s nervous. “This is weird, isn’t it?”
Nate still seems to be having trouble comprehending what’s going on. “Sorry, I’m on a lot of painkillers. Why are you here?”
“I called an agency to get you a live-in physical therapist for when you’re discharged. That way you can just focus on resting and recovering. I wanted whoever was first available, and I guess…” I stand and go to Laney. “Good to see you again, Laney.”
“You too.” Her pale skin is now beet red.
“If this is uncomfortable for you, we’re not going to make you stay, of course.”
She shakes her head. “No, it’s been years, I mean…as long as Nate’s not uncomfortable with it, I don’t mind.”
I glance at Nate.
From the expression on his face, the sort of half-melted smile, I don’t think she should worry about that.
“I’m fine with it.”
“Good, that’s good.” Laney grabs a rolling stool the nurses use and positions it beside Nate’s bed. “Then I’d love to talk through your recovery plan with you all, if that’s alright.”
Jack, Abigail, and I listen to every word as Laney explains what will be happening over the next few months while she works with Nate.
Good thing we’re all on hand because Nate is struggling with his critical thinking. Not sure if it’s the drugs anymore or having his eyes on a beautiful girl. However, I doubt Nate would ever make a move on Laney.
He’s a better man than I am. He wouldn’t date his best friend’s ex.
And there I was, trying to date myson’sex.
Sure, I didn’t know, but I can’t shake the feeling that I should have.
“My goal for this plan is to have you walking within a few months, six tops.” Laney’s eyes are on Nate. “And since I’ll be able to monitor you so closely, I have a lot of confidence.”
“Sounds good.” Nate smiles. “Real good.”
She laughs and then looks up at me. “I think he might need some rest before this all really sinks in.”
“That sounds like a good plan. Thanks for coming in,Laney. My assistant will get all the details worked out, and we’ll get you set up at my residence ASAP.”
Nate’s gaze flies to me. “Yourresidence?”
“Yes, of course.” I shrug. “I have the space, after all.” But that’s not the real reason. I want to be there every step of the way, just like Laney, to make sure my son recovers.
I expect Nate to protest, tell me that he doesn’t need my help. But he just smiles. “Okay.”
I’ve never felt my heart so close to bursting at someone just saying, “Okay,” until now.
Laney leaves soon after, followed by Abigail and Jack, leaving me and my son alone.
“Well.” I break the awkward silence. “I’ll step out, let you get some rest and–”
“No, Dad,” Nate’s voice is small. “Stay for a bit, would you?”
My body feels numb.
