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Honor swayed back and forth with Violet as Liam took Joshua into the X-ray room and helped him into his vest.
“We’ll be done shortly,” Liam said to Honor, taking Violet from her arms and bringing her into the room with Joshua. Honor gave him an encouraging thumbs-up sign before the door was closed.
Taking the X-rays wasn’t as simple as Joshua had hoped. Violet wriggled around like a fish on a hook. He let out a huge sigh of relief when Liam told him he’d managed to get a great picture of Violet’s extremities.
As soon as they returned to the examination room, he began to pace back and forth. It killed him that his daughter was in
so much pain. Violet had begun to softly cry again. He’d been negligent. He didn’t think he could ever forgive himself for hurting Violet. Honor didn’t overstep. She stood by as a support system without being overbearing.
“This is all my fault!” he said in an agonized voice as he gently held Violet in his arms. He worried about hurting her by moving her body or brushing against her.
He felt a soothing touch on his shoulder. “Don’t blame yourself, Joshua. It was an accident,” Honor said. “The way you feel about Violet speaks volumes. You would never hurt her intentionally.”
“I should have watched her more closely. In the past few days she’s been extra curious about her surroundings. I know how fast she can move when she’s motivated.”
“Blaming yourself is wasting a lot of energy. Why don’t you focus on next steps? What can you do to make Violet feel better? Does she have a favorite treat, like Popsicles or chocolate milk? What about a blanket that makes her feel better or a favorite doll?”
“That’s a great idea, Honor. Thanks.” He shook his head. “I just hope she’s going to be all right.”
Honor sent him an encouraging smile. “I think she will be. She’s not crying as much as when you first arrived. I know she’s in pain, but I think she’s probably scared, too. Taking a tumble is frightening.”
“You’re right about that.” Perhaps her injuries weren’t as terrible as he’d imagined on the drive to the clinic.
Dear Lord. Please grant Violet favor. She’s just a baby. She doesn’t even understand what’s happening. Please give her comfort and healing.
“I appreciate you being here, Honor. A few hours ago I never would have imagined feeling this way, but despite what’s going on with the ranch, when I saw you standing by the exam room door, I was grateful.”
“It must have been terrifying for you.” She made a tutting noise. “And for Violet.”
“It all happened so fast. I’m still wondering how it all happened so quickly.”
Suddenly, Liam reappeared in the room. “I’ve studied the images. The arm is fractured. But the good news is, no other broken bones. Due to her age, she’ll heal quickly. There aren’t signs of a concussion or anything more ominous. Please keep me in the loop if she exhibits any additional symptoms, although I’m confident she’ll be on the mend soon.”
“Praise the Lord,” Honor cried out, clapping her hands together.
Joshua let out a ragged sigh. He pressed a kiss on Violet’s cheek, overcome with relief and joy. He carefully maneuvered so as not to give her any additional pain or aggravate the injury. She nuzzled her face against his chest and stuck her thumb firmly in her mouth. He looked down at her, knowing full well he was wearing his heart on his sleeve. “What a blessing! I’m grateful for your dedication, Liam.”
“That’s what I’m here for, Joshua. To make things better. Now I need to put a cast on her arm.” He made a face. “At her age, it isn’t easy to sit still, especially when you’re in pain.”
Joshua looked down at Violet. She was so small and vulnerable. He couldn’t wait until this night was nothing more than a memory.
“Why don’t you hold her in your lap and I’ll get it done as fast as I possibly can?” Liam suggested in a gentle voice. Joshua was thoroughly impressed with Dr. Liam Prescott. Six years ago he’d intensely disliked Honor’s brother. He was convinced the feeling had been mutual. It was amazing how people could grow and change for the better.
Joshua sat down and held Violet in his lap. He held her free hand as Liam placed the cast on her arm. Considering everything she’d been through this evening, Violet barely fussed. Part of his heart ached at the weary expression imprinted on his daughter’s face. She’d been put through the wringer. Her little body was near exhaustion.
“Why don’t you take this little lady home? My work here is done. Violet looks like she’s ready to crash.” Liam tousled Violet’s blond curls. “I can’t say I blame her. She’s had quite an eventful night.”
“She’s been a trouper,” Honor said, reaching out and brushing Violet’s hair out of her eyes.
Joshua stuck out his hand to Liam, who didn’t hesitate to shake it. “Thank you for responding so quickly to my call. And for everything you did for my daughter. I won’t ever forget it. You can send the bill to the ranch.”
“I’ll do that. You’re very welcome.” Liam nodded. “Goodnight. I’m going to lock up the place.”
Honor held the door open for Liam as he walked outside. Snow was gently falling from the inky sky. Violet turned her face upward and giggled as snowflakes landed on her face. Joshua glanced over at Honor. They met each other’s gaze and smiled. Seeing Violet so full of joy was an amazing blessing.
“She’s something else, isn’t she?” Joshua asked.
“She sure is,” Honor murmured. An emotion he couldn’t pinpoint flickered in her blue-gray eyes.
