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Jake could feel the sting of tears himself, and he almost laughed. How long has it been since he cried? Since Victor’s death? He had thought he’d lost the ability to ever really feel so much again, after seeing his best friend’s life end right before his eyes.
Olivia punched a number into her phone and walked off down the hall, talking quietly.
He pulled Hannah into him again. “Let me get you something to eat.”
“I’m really not hungry,” she said, laying her hand on his chest. “You should go. I’ll be fine.”
He shrugged. “Nah, I’ll stay. I can sit in the waiting area.”
“Jake, really, I’m okay.” Her voice was sharp, and it took him aback.
“Let me at least grab you some coffee?” he said. “Or we could go for a short walk, get some fresh air.”
Hannah looked back at her father’s door. “I can tell he’s scared, you know. I just feel bad leaving him alone.”
“He doesn’t deserve you.” Jake didn’t mince words.
Hannah took in a deep breath, seeming annoyed by the comment. “Maggie told me her only regrets were of things left undone. Joel Destin might have been a terrible father, but that doesn’t mean I want to be a terrible daughter. I don’t want to look back and regret not trying hard enough.”
“He’s lucky to have you,” Jake said, trying to catch her eye, but by the way she was avoiding his, he could tell something else was bothering her. “Is there something wrong?”
“Yes, my dad’s dying.”
Hannah turned away as Olivia returned and kissed Hannah on the cheek. “I’m going to head out. I’ve got Emma, Mae, and everything covered.”
“She has that babysitter’s club after school.”
“Yup, Maggie’s going to pick her up.” Olivia looked at her phone. “I’m going to run home to shower, and then I’m going to head to the court and make arrangements.”
Hannah’s eyes widened. “I can’t afford much.”
Olivia shook her head. “Hannah, don’t worry. We will make sure you’re okay.”
Jake nodded. “Seriously, we’re here for you.”
Olivia kissed her again and then headed out.
Hannah wiped her eyes on her sleeve. “I’m sorry to be such a bother.”
“You have absolutely nothing to apologize about.” The line between his eyes deepened.
She sniffled, then smiled, but he could see the conflicts building inside her. Tiny little fires burning everywhere.
“Want to take a walk?”
She shook her head.
“Alright. I guess I’ll go.” He jabbed his thumb behind him, stepping away. “Let me know if you want me to bring your car.”
“Olivia’s taking care of it.” Hannah eyes flickered away from his.
Jake took the hint.
* * *
She filled out paperwork, then rode with her father to the nursing home. By the time he was settled, she was so tired she could barely think. She had Olivia pick her up.
At the house, Emma was watching a baseball game with Maggie and Jesse.
