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*****
“Are you sure you feel up to it? I think it’s a bad idea.” Steven asked for what seemed like the umpteenth time.
“Steven. I’m much better. I’ve gained back two pounds.”
“But the doctor said it’s only water weight.”
Anne put on her most sad puppy face. “Please, Steven. I haven’t seen Gram and Gus in weeks.”
“But you’re not supposed to over-exert.”
“I only have to walk to and from the car. I should be fine without the IV for three hours. And we can take it along just in case.”
“But Gram will be upset when you don’t eat anything.”
“She’s already upset. She’ll be less upset when she sees I’m feeling fine and I can walk around. And I’ll eat a bit. I’m doing pretty well with bread. Please, please, please! I’m going stir-crazy in this apartment all day.”
“But it’s only Wednesday night. You’ve only spent two days in the apartment, and you have Connie to keep you company.”
“Yes, Connie’s great, but I miss seeing people and doing things. You know how I am. One short evening out at Gram’s house can’t hurt anything.”
“Fine. We’ll go. But only if you have a really good day tomorrow.” He seemed irritated. “I can’t believe I let you talk me into these things. If something happens—“
“Nothing’s going to happen.”
“That’s what you said when we went on the hike. Remember?”
“That marriage book said you couldn’t bring up the past when you’re having an argument. So you can’t bring up Saturday.”
“This is not an argument. This is you getting your way again, like you always do.”
“Oh, and another rule was you’re not supposed to say things like you always and you never.”
“How about this… I seldom get my way because you constantly get your way because I’m a big pushover where you’re concerned.”
“Oh you’re definitely not a pushover. I have to work hard to win every single battle.” Steven started to tickle her, but she cried out, “Ouch, ouch!”
“What? Did I hurt you? Is it the IV needle?”
She laughed. “No, I was kidding.”
“You’re going to cry wolf one too many times.”
With one hand, he pinned both of hers, and reached to tickle her side. She squirmed and cried out, laughing. He stopped when her cell phone rang.
“Saved by the bell, but only temporarily.”
She answered the call, winking at him. “Emily, I’m glad you called. Really glad.”
“Only a temporary reprieve,” he whispered in her ear.
“Hey, Mom. I thought I’d invite myself up there for an early dinner on Thursday.”
“You’re in luck. We’re going to Gram’s on Thursday night for dinner. You can come with us. She’d love to see you, I’m sure.”
“Oh... well I have plans for later in the evening on Thursday.”
“Okay. We haven’t eaten tonight. Why don’t you come up? I really miss seeing people. Especially you.”
