I opened my mouth, but misery and guilt made it impossible to say anything.
“It’s all right, Quinn. It’s nothing you’ve done. You’ve always been Nate’s best friend, and I wouldn’t change that for anything in the world. All I’m asking is that you don’t abandon him. Whatever happens between you and Leo—or anyone else—please don’t forget about Nate.”
“I never could.” It was my turn to cry, warm tears trickling over my cheeks. “Sheri, Nate’s one of the most important people in the world to me. I love him.” I swallowed hard. “I wish I could say that I felt the same way. But Nate’s always been like my brother. My best friend. I can’t imagine not having him in my life. I just don’t see him ...” My gaze slid away from hers. “Any other way.”
Sheri sighed. “Believe me, honey, I understand that. I’ve always been able to see it, but Nate doesn’t. Or if he does, he’s just too stubborn to admit otherwise. I’m not asking you to lie to him, or to pretend to feel something that you don’t. I just want you to keep being the best friend you can. And if—” She broke off as we both heard the sound of wheels at the door. An orderly backed into the room, steering Nate’s gurney around the corner.
“Well, if it isn’t my daredevil son.” Sheri jumped to her feet, her eyes taking in Nate’s form under the thin blanket. She set her shoulders and pasted on a smile, and if I hadn’t seen her crying a few minutes before, I’d have never believed she had been.
“Hey, Mom.” He glanced at me, a small frown on his face. “I guess you heard what happened?” It was more question than statement, and by the way his eyes bored into me, I knew I was the one he was asking. He needed to know if I’d gone along with his story.
“That you tried to take all the steps in one bound? Yeah, I might’ve heard a rumor about that.” She leaned over and kissed his cheek.
“I’m going to be fine, though.” His gaze darted between the two of us. “What were you two talking about?”
“Nothing special. Just girl talk.” Sheri smiled wider and winked at me. “Right, Quinn?”
“Yup, that’s all.” I nodded, hoping that neither Nate nor his mother could sense the turmoil and confusion whirling inside me.
I was more than ready for this day to be over.
