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For the first time in my life, I’m safe and protected.
If he leaves me . . . how will I cope?
I’ve been hurt before, and although I know that this is in a completely different league than my past relationships, the prospect is terrifying.
This one will hurt . . . deeply.
My chest constricts at that thought.
Minutes become hours and the day takes a toll on me. My eyes get heavy and soon I’m transported to the blissful peace of oblivion.
Chapter Sixteen
Maverick
Thefirstnurseemergesfrom a room with the doctor by her side. I watch the two of them talk, their eyes darting to us, now and again.
When the nurse points to us, the doctor nods and she disappears again. The doctor approaches us, his face grim.
I stay seated, trying to make sure Noelle doesn’t wake up just yet. She is beat and if this is bad news, she needs to get her strength back first before she is dealt another blow.
The doc’s eyes moves from Noelle and back to me as he comes forward. Then he nods at her and softly asks, “Noelle Quinn?”
I nod to let him know he has the right people but still don’t make a move to wake her up. He'll talk to me first and then I’ll decide if she should be disturbed or not.
Keeping my voice soft and low, I ask, “How’s she?”
“Are you family?”
I have to think quick on my feet, so I say, “They are stepsisters, and I’m her husband.” Nodding my head to indicate the sleeping Noelle.
“Very well,” the doctor says. “I’m afraid Ms. Jensen’s health has deteriorated by a drastic margin.”
“What does that mean?”
The doctor looks at me. “It means there’s no telling what can happen in the next few days. We’re going to place her on extended bedrest and monitor her progress.”
“Is she going to make it?” I ask because I know Noelle would too.
“We are doing everything we can to make sure she does. It is up to her now, but we gave her all the weapons to make it a fair fight for her life.” The doctor smiles.
“Will she be able to have visits tonight? I’m sure my wife is dying to see her.” My wife. It’s been so long. Since I said those words last, and unlike what I expected, they don’t hurt this time. Could it be because of whom I’m referring to?
The doctor shakes his head ruefully. “I’m sorry but it isn’t a good time. I’ll contact you when she’s fully awake and fully aware of her surroundings.”
“Very well. Thank you.” I shake his hand. “You’ve been such a great help.”
“Before you leave, I’m going to need you to sign a couple of forms, so we can begin the treatment on her. The psychiatrist will be down to see her within the next day or two and when she’s stable enough, I’ll transfer her to a nutrition specialist who’ll put her on a diet regimen for a couple of weeks. Now, seeing how much feeding has always been hard for her, I must let you know that it’s not going to be an easy journey.”
“I understand. But at least there is a chance and we can hope for the best.”
He nods appreciatively. “I have to go now, since I have a few rounds to make, but we’ll keep in touch.” Then he leaves.
I turn to Noelle and kiss her head before softly rousing her.
“It’s time to go home, sweetheart.” The endearment just slipped from me. Must be the exhaustion.
“But Abbie…” Her voice is rough and slightly slurred from sleep. So adorable.
