“Jordan.” Mrs. Denali grips my forearm but doesn’t say anything else as Chloe continues.
“They’re running tests now but my guess is that they’re going to take him into surgery to put in a few stents, depending on what they find. He’s very lucky that Jordan was there to do CPR.”
She goes into a little more detail about heart attacks and cardiac arrest, but I’ve tuned her out at this point. I’m feeling a little lightheaded, if I’m honest. The seriousness of the situation is just hitting me now, and though I reacted the way I needed to in the moment, the aftermath is a bit overwhelming.
If I hadn’t started CPR, he would have died.
This could have gone wrong in so many ways.
“Babe?” Victoria is watching me intently.
“I’m okay,” I respond automatically. “Just trying to catch my breath.”
“I know.”
“I have to get back,” Chloe says, “but text me if you need me. I’ll be here until late.”
“Thank you, Chloe.” Victoria squeezes her hand.
Then we all sink down into chairs.
“Eat,” I nudge Victoria.
She takes a bite of the burger.
Mrs. Denali looks at her like she can’t decide if she wants it or not.
“Not eating isn’t going to help him, Mom,” Victoria says gently. “And you’ll need your strength to stay with him.”
She nods and then looks at me, her expression one of surprise. “You saved his life,” she whispers. “I don’t know how I’ll ever thank you.”
“No thanks are necessary,” I say gruffly.
“They absolutely are.” Tears fill her eyes. “We’ve been unfair to you, Jordan, and I’m so very sorry.”
I shake my head. “It’s fine. Really.”
“It’s not, but maybe we can talk about this…later. Once I know Rod is going to be okay.”
“Whatever you need,” I say gently. “I’m here for all of you.”
“Thank you, Jordan. I mean it.” Mrs. Denali reaches for my hand, squeezing it tightly. “I’m…glad you’re here. With Victoria and with me.”
“Like I said, whatever you need. I’m here for you.”
Tears puddle in the older woman’s eyes as she nods.
Then Victoria leans against my side, whispering in my ear, “I love you, Jordan Palmer.”
That’s really good to hear.
Chapter 41
Victoria
The next couple of days are stressful, but Dad has a successful procedure to put stents in three arteries. They were almost fully blocked, but the team of doctors here are top-notch and he’s getting great care. He’s been a little grumpy, but my mom knows how to manage him.
I’ve been back and forth since I’m too close to graduation to miss a lot of school. Terri has been great about picking up some of my shifts so I can help with both Charlie and my dad, but it’s taking a toll physically. I’m so exhausted I almost fell asleep in class today.
