“It’s one of the disadvantages of getting older.” Pat’s hand trembled as he lifted his coffee cup to his mouth.
Brett didn’t know what he would do if something happened to Ida. She had been his sounding board, the woman who loved him unconditionally even when he was acting like an idiot. She was the mother he’d always wanted and a friend he would have for life.
Hannah walked around the table. She leaned down and wrapped her arms around Pat’s shoulders. “I hope Ida gets better soon.”
Tears filled Pat’s eyes. “So do I.” He patted Hannah’s hand and took a deep breath. “Some days it only seems like yesterday that we were living on the ranch with Stevie and Brett. Then I look around and wonder where the years have gone.”
Brett put down his sandwich. He’d never seen Pat look so unhappy or worried.
“Will you be okay?” Hannah asked.
“Of course I will. I’m feeling sorry for myself, that’s all.” He forced a smile. “As soon as the antibiotics start working, Ida will get better, and we’ll be back to normal.”
Claire refilled Pat’s coffee cup. “Over the last few weeks, your life has been anything but normal. Between Dave’s father and his gambling debts, Dave’s injuries, and Ida’s health, it has been a Christmas no one will forget.”
“What about the painting Hannah found in the attic?” Brett added. “If it’s what everyone thinks it is, it could be worth a small fortune.”
Hannah pushed away her plate. “I was so excited when we found the painting. But with everything that’s happened, it seems like the least of our worries.”
Pat took his dishes across to the sink. “I agree. All I want is for Ida to get through the next forty-eight hours.”
Brett raised his coffee cup in Pat’s direction. “I’ll second that. Here’s to a healthy and happy New Year.”
As everyone clinked their mugs together, he wondered if their lives could get any more complicated. And then he looked at Hannah and realized they already had.
