“Thank you.”
“Bernard. If you need anything, please let us know.” Rory’s voice came out soft.
Rory was scared. His voice revealed that much. He didn’t want Rory to worry about him. He had other things to worry about than him.
“We’re gonna let you get some sleep. Have you talked to Rich about your leave?”
He’d called the day his father passed away to let them know.
“They’re fine with me taking the time I need,” he said. “Rich said to take care of myself and to get some rest.”
“That’s good,” Sarah said.
“We should let him get some sleep,” John said.
“You’re right,” Sarah said.
Bernard felt Sarah’s lips on his forehead, but he couldn’t open his eyes.
“Bernard, would you like me to take care of Ginger for a few days?” Kelly asked. “She could play with Chester.”
“I don’t want to bother you. I think I’ll be okay.”
“It’s no bother. You need to look after yourself. I’ll take Ginger.”
“Thank you.”
The tears still couldn’t come. His friends were by his side, helping him, and he couldn’t shed a tear of gratitude.
“Come on, Ginger,” Kelly called.
He opened his eyes to see Ginger leap off the bed after some coaxing. Kelly picked her up. He closed his eyes. The door closed.
“I love you, sweetheart.” Rory pressed his lips against his. “Please take care of yourself. I hate to see you like this.”
“I love you too, sweetie.” Bernard returned the kiss.
“I’ll let you get some rest and check on you soon.”
*
THE NEXT FEWdays were a daze. Bernard remembered going to the store but couldn’t remember what he bought. He filled his days with sporadically eating, random TV shows, and sleep.
“Bernard,” a distant voice called out. “I’ve come by to see how you’re feeling and brought Ginger to see you.”
Bernard looked over to see Kelly standing above his bed.
Ginger jumped up and curled up next to him.
“How are you holding up?”
“I’m okay, I ate something today,” Bernard said.
“That’s good, man.” Kelly sat at the edge of the bed. “Everyone’s worried about you.”
“I know.”
“Rory came by a few times, but you were out cold.”
