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“Anymore?” Elias asks.
“‘Womenfolk’?” Brighton cuts in.
Pop looks me square in the eyes, a smile playing on his mouth. “One of my favorite things in the world is having my family all together. We’re one shy tonight, but I’m glad you’re here in his stead.” He winks at me and kicks up the foot on his recliner.
Night 1
Me:I’m proud of you and I’m scared for you. This house doesn’t have the same feel when you’re gone. Kyle keeps pacing, looking for you. I’ve given up telling him you won’t be home tonight. Sleep well.
I know he won’t receive it. I have his phone, and it lights up and buzzes with my message. But when he gets home, or when he’s allowed to have his phone, I want him to know I thought of him each night.
Night 2
Me:Sarah is great. I’m glad you have her. She says y’all go way back. Thank you for trusting me with your care. It means a lot to me. We’ve come a long way from when you thought I didn’t know a thing about making you stronger. ;)
Night 3
Me:I had dinner tonight at the ranch. Your family makes me laugh. They miss you. Kyle misses you. I miss you.
Me:Pop and I had a heart-to-heart about your time in the hospital. I saw your charts, and I knew, but I didn’t *know*. Your dad is a good man. You’re lucky to have him.
Me:What are Elias and Exton up to? I see the group texts pinging. I’m not reading them, but something’s going on. I haven’t asked, but they tend to get quiet when I walk in.
Night 4
Me:I’m guessing your body is hating you, and you’re hating it. You’re brave and strong. I miss telling you my secrets. If you asked me tonight, I’d tell you I struggled not to touch you in my yoga classes.
Night 5
Me:Willa is letting me do some prenatal yoga with her. She’s a trip. Kyle looks all over for you.
Night 6
Me:Your sister called me tonight, just to chat. I think she’s trying with me. She’s a hell of a woman. I don’t think she’s let on how much she’s missed you.
Night 7
Me:Tomorrow! I can’t wait. I’ve missed you! The hardest part is behind you.
FORTY-SIX
CONFESSION TIME
LIVY
In the morning, I receive a voicemail while I’m in the shower.
“Miss Morgan. This is Cynthia at Natomas Hills. Mr. Ranger has indicated he does not want any visitors this week. He asked me to call you and his other emergency contact to let you know his decision. This isn’t uncommon.”She tacks on the last part quietly as if she’s apologizing.
I dial his other emergency contact.
“Livy?”
“Exton? Did you talk to the rehab center?”
“I did. How’re you holding up?”
I’d like to say there’s a hitch in my voice, but that’s an understatement. “I’m disappointed. So disappointed. I’m also afraid, though that’s the wrong word.”
