I’m not sure what to say, since the three of us just kind of stumbled into the role of bar owners.
“When’s the big day, anyway?” I say, changing topics. “Did you finally pick a date?”
They smile together, and Seth answers. “November 8th.”
My jaw drops. “No shit? That’s like two months away.”
“Less than that, actually. But yeah. It’s our one-year anniversary. We won’t take time off until after the new year, since I have some work contracts due in December.”
“That’s great, though. I’m happy for you.”
Declan hesitates. “Think you and Miles will make it back for the wedding? I’d still love for you and Piper to stand up with me.”
“Of course. We’ll be there.”
“But don’t worry. You won’t need a tux,” Seth says. “We’re drawing a line at a formal ceremony. We want it comfortable.”
“So flip flops and shorts on the beach, then?” I tease.
They turn to look at each other and laugh. “That’s actually exactly what we’re doing. Except pants, no shorts.”
I grin. “Awesome. Count us in.”
Declan squeezes my shoulder. “Take care of Miles, okay? If you need anyone, just call. I’ll shut the place down if we need to, to be there for him.”
My throat tightens. When Declan loves someone, he loves hard.
“Thanks, Dec.”
24
MILES
Once afternoon rounds are done, I slip into Ruth’s room to spend some time with her. She’s recovering nicely, and Dr. Mullins thinks she’ll be going home in the next few days. It’s a relief. I couldn’t stand seeing her in pain yesterday.
I visit with her until it’s time to change her medication. The new dose kicks in within minutes, and she nods off. Pulling her beloved crossword book from her hand, I set it on the table, then sink into a nearby chair. It hasn’t been a horrible day, all things considered. Just… heavy.
Closing my eyes, I cup a hand against my face like Jordan taught me and smile a little. It’s silly how well this softens the ache, but it’s not enough. It’s never enough. I miss him so much. I need to book a flight to see him.
“Paging Miles Breckton to the second-floor nurse’s station. Miles Breckton to the second-floor nurse’s station.”
Startled to hear my name on the overhead, I jump up and leave Ruth’s room, freezing just outside the door.
There, thirty feet away, is Jordan. His dark hair hangs loose around his shoulders, and his face is freshly shaven. He’s smiling too, as he stares down at the single red rose in his hand. Not the forced smile I’ve seen so many times, but a real, genuine, heart-stopping one.
“Jordan?” I squeak, though it’s definitely him.
He turns at my voice, then starts toward me with no hesitation. He reaches me in four strides, grinning wide as he crushes me in a hug.
I fling my arms around him and hold on, dipping my face into his neck. His solid, familiar form instantly calms me, the scent of roses and chamomile lingering in the air.
“What are you doing here?”
He chuckles softly as he pulls away. “I came to see you.”Obviously.He hands me the rose.
I accept it and kiss him. Hard.Jordan is here!
Someone coughs, and my cheeks heat when I see that a half dozen people are watching us. But I don’t care. This is surreal.Jordan once thought he wouldn’t be able to leave San Diego, but here he is. Right in front of me.
