A nurse brought in a second chair. Alexis and Trey stayed with Thomas as he told them stories of Trey’s childhood and his mother. He took frequent breaks to catch his breath, but Alexis and Trey hung on to every word.
When Thomas drifted into sleep, the nurse suggested they leave for a bit. “He needs all the rest he can get. I’ll call you at once if anything were to change.”
Trey hesitated. “What if…”
The nurse, a taller male, spoke with compassion. “I understand your concern, and I can’t make any promises. What I can tell you is that his vitals are stable for now. If that changes, I’ll contact you at once, as I said.”
Alexis clasped Trey’s shoulder. She knew a break from the room would do him well. He needed to process the entire afternoon and evening, which would be hard to do if he didn’t separate himself somehow. “The cafeteria should be open now. Let’s eat, and you’ll only be an elevator ride away.”
“I did offer you dinner.” He sighed. “We’ll go eat.”
After he gave the nurse his number, they went to the waiting area and let Norris know their plans.
“I’m going home for a bit, myself,” Norris told them. “Don’t worry about anything regarding the business. Your girl there is amazing. She helped me make calls and get your schedule cleared. If anything arises, your assistant will take care of it.”
She blushed. She got the feeling Norris didn’t often hand out compliments, which made it that much more meaningful. “Truffles is also taken care of. Greg will keep her until you’re ready for her.”
“You’re both incredible. Thank you.” His face froze. “She has a follow up with the vet tomorrow.”
“Greg told me, and I’m going to take her. I’ve already called Mrs. Guillory, and she said to take all the flexibility I need to help you. She also wanted me to tell you that she and all the board members will be praying for you and your father.”
His eyes widened. “How did you accomplish all that in such a short time?”
“Magic.” Her eyes twinkled despite the solemn situation. “But seriously, you do what you can for those you care about.”
Norris groaned. “I’m out of here before you two get any more googly eyed with each other.”
Trey chuckled, and it warmed her heart that he could get a brief respite from grief. “I’ll call you with any updates.”
“Thank you. I’ll be back in the morning before I go to the office.”
Alexis watched him walk away. “Norris is a good man. He might be your father’s employee, but he considers him a friend as well.”
“He’s worked for my dad since I was in second grade. They’ve been through a lot together.” Yawning, Trey used his free hand to cover his mouth.
“Let’s get you coffee. I hear the cafeteria has a better selection than the vending machines.”
He was quiet as they walked to the elevator and descended to the first floor. Alexis watched the varying emotions play in his expressions. He was hurting, and it made her hurt.
They grabbed plates of meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Trey chose carrots, and she picked green beans. He paid for their meals, and they dropped their trays off at a table before taking their melamine mugs to the industrial coffee pots.
Trey picked at his food. Nourishing his body was an afterthought, a necessity, but his mind wasn’t focused on it. “I’m not leaving the hospital.”
She’d known he wouldn’t and had already planned for it. “I’ll stay with you longer, if you want me too, and then have Mom pick me up.”
“I’d forgotten already that your car isn’t here. I’ll drive you to my house first.”
“You’re good. Stay here—it’s where you’re needed.”
He reached over and tucked a curl behind her ear. “I don’t deserve you.”
“Let me be the judge of that.”
“I can’t eat.” He pushed his plate away. “I want to wake up and realize I’ve been dreaming. It’s not fair. My mom, and now my dad. With no warning and time to mentally prepare myself.”
She touched his cheek. “I’m not sure we’re ever able to prepare ourselves for a loved one’s death. The best we can do is cling to God and let Him carry us through it.”
“Dad’s saved now. Did I tell you that in the room? And I can tell it’s not a graveside confession. He’s truly accepted Christ in his heart. I’ll see him again one day, and that helps me.”
