Page 29 of Finn

He laughed, shaking his head. “You are never going to let go of her, are you?”

“I can’t. It’s impossible.”

“You have everything, Finn. Find someone who wants to share that with you.”

“I can’t move on, Niall. I tried. Una is it for me. If all I can do is be her friend, stay in the background and make sure she’s safe, then it’s enough.”

He stood, pulling down his sleeves. “You’re lying to yourself, cousin. It isn’t enough—and one day, you are going to want more, no matter what you tell yourself.” He headed to the door. “And you are going to have to make a choice. Live in the past filled with regrets or find some happiness.”

Then he was gone, leaving me to my thoughts.

* * *

The next morning, Niall strode in, his expression calm.

“What did Dr. Watts say?” I asked.

“Dr. Watts said everything was fine with her levels at her last visit. She has another appointment next week, and he promised to keep me in the loop.” He grimaced. “He reminded me she wasn’t a young woman anymore and she is slowing down.”

I met his gaze. “He’s right, but she’s your mother.”

“I know. I called her today too and she seemed brighter, so maybe I did catch her on a bad day. I sent her flowers.” He scrubbed the back of his neck. “I’ll keep in touch and monitor things.”

“Good plan. And if you need to go, the plane is at your disposal.”

“Thanks, Finn.”

“Family,” was all I said.

He held out his hand. “Family.”

* * *

I was restless that evening, unable to settle and my head aching. I went for a drive, finding myself parking in front of Una’s building. I could see her light on behind the blinds, and I went upstairs, smiling in thanks at the person who held the door open for me. They had seen me around enough to know I was okay to let in.

Una looked surprised when she opened the door. “Finn?”

“Hi.”

“Are you okay?”

“Sure.” Then I paused. “May I come in?”

She stepped back. “Of course.”

I walked in, inhaling.

“What are you cooking?”

“Oh,” she said with a smile. “Stew.”

“It smells incredible.”

“I was about to eat. Would you like some?”

“Mo chroí, I would love a bowl,” I replied. “And you know I love your cooking.”

She headed to the kitchen. “It’s simple.”