“Bathroom. Medication. Bed.”
“You ruin every date.”
“I provided honey cakes.”
“That bought you goodwill.”
I helped him transfer into the chair.
He used the bathroom while I cleaned the kitchen.
By the time he returned, his eye was nearly closed.
I gave him the evening medication and followed him to the bedroom.
Marlowe arrived first and claimed the foot of the bed.
Noah transferred with more help than he had needed earlier.
The day had emptied him.
I supported his legs as he settled.
“Tomorrow will be long,” I said.
“I know.”
“You can cancel anything that becomes too much.”
“Not the brace appointment.”
“No.”
“I want it gone.”
“I know.”
“Will you stay in the room?”
“Yes.”
“All of them?”
“Yes.”
His gaze rested on me.
“You say yes very easily.”
“Only to certain questions.”
I pulled the blanket over him.
“Good night, Noah.”
“Cal.”
The private name stopped me.
