I waited for the server to deposit the bowls with our steaming ramen and leave. “That’s a fantastic idea, Ronan. I can’t say it enough—how incredible it is to see you setting this all up. The best thing is that even after you’re done with the community service, it’s a gift that will keep on giving.”
“That’s what I wanted.” He met my eyes. “I’m all about the long-term, not one-shot deals. If you know what I mean.”
Was he talking about us as well? Why did that simultaneously give me goose bumps and a heart attack? My phone rang, and seeingMompop up didn’t lower my stress level.
“Hi, Mom. Not to cut you short or anything, but I’m working.”
“I know, but it’s lunchtime, so I figured you had a few minutes.”
Ronan’s lips twitched, and I huffed out a sigh. No need to put my mother on speaker phone. “I have a minute. What’s up?”
“Nothing. Just that it’s been a few months, so I’m coming to the city tonight. I’d like to see you.” She paused. “And of course, if Ronan would like to join us…”
Now Ronan laughed outright, and pleading for strength, I raised my eyes to the ceiling. “Very well-planned, Mom. I’d love to see you, but I don’t know if Ronan is free.”
“If you’re working now, he should be there with you. You can ask him.”
Ronan called out, “Erica, I’m free. I’d love to meet you.”
I sent him a dark look, which he met with that cocky grin. I didn’t know what I wanted to do more—kiss him or punch him in the face.
“Okay. So we’ll see you tonight.”
“Bye, darling. I’m taking the train. It gets in at four thirty.”
“I’ll text you the address. Let me know when you arrive and get in the car.”
“Will do. I’m so excited.”
“See you soon, Mom.”
I pocketed my phone, and Ronan grinned. “She can’t wait to meet me, right?”
Ignoring him, I took two spoonfuls of soup. “We haven’t seen each other in a while. I told you we’re very close.”
Ronan raised a brow. “You’re such a bad liar. Come on, admit it.” He nudged my foot with his.
I set my spoon in the bowl. “Maybe.”
“Is she going to spend the night?” He chewed a clump of noodles. “She can sleep in your room.”
“I haven’t even thought of it. Probably not.”
“Hmm.” His eyes narrowed. “Is that because you don’t want her to know we’re together?”
“Trust me,” I said with a grin. “She’ll know. Be prepared.”
“For what?” He finished his bowl and wiped his lips.
“You’ll see.” It was my turn to snicker and his to look nervous. “We’d better get to the hospital.”
Upon entering the children’s ward, Ronan was surrounded by staff. Doctors, nurses, and administrative staff all shook his hand, thanking him for his generosity, and Dorothy told him, “I might’ve mentioned what you were planning to do for the children, and they couldn’t wait to thank you.”
Scanning everyone’s faces, I moved closer to him as the crowd grew larger. One person held back, catching my eye. She stood silent, eyes narrowed, but as the minutes passed and she did nothing, I relaxed.
Dorothy held up her hands and shushed everyone. “We were so overwhelmed by Ronan’s generosity, and we’d like to thank him by calling the spaceThe Brendan and Fiona Michaels Giving Center.”
Visibly emotional, Ronan shook his head. “Thanks, everyone, but I didn’t do any of this for recognition. I know what it’s like to be stuck in a hospital for months. You’re scared and lonely and want your parents. All the time.”
