“Iwantto spend time with you,” I argue.
There’s no guarantee how much longer we’ll have together.
“Yes, b-but I don’t want you to let life slip by in the process. Wren’s off with her family in Florida, Briar’s e-engaged with a son of her own, and Charlie will eventually meet her match—bless that poor soul,” Mama jokes. “It’s y-your turn to find happiness now, and I don’t want you putting that on hold because of me.”
I stay quiet, letting her words sink in. Looking back, I see now that whenever I had a chance to go out with friends or on a date, I chose to stay home if Dad wasn’t around. It wasn’t really a choice—it was a necessity. Even after he hired nurses to cover around-the-clock shifts, I let fear and guilt dictate my priorities, building a self-imposed cage I hadn’t realized I’d constructed.
I suppose that’s why I never pursued anything romantic before now. Compared with the responsibilities of caring for Mama, it all seemed trivial, and my lack of experience made me clumsy and self-conscious around guys whenever I did try to show interest.
“I’m actually seeing someone,” I whisper.
A smile lights up Mama’s face. “You are? When were you p-planning on introducing me to this mystery man?”
I don’t tell her she’s already met him. She and Julie used to work together at the elementary school before Mama had to quit, and she often stopped by the Halsteads when picking me up or dropping me off to play with Briar, so she knows Heath and Walker well. Even if she has met the guy I’m seeing, Dad would never allow him near Mama without first being certain he could be trusted to keep her health under wraps. One more reason dating has always been complicated.
I sit up and turn to face her, clearing my throat. “It’s still really new so we’re taking things slow. I just wanted you to know so you don’t have to worry about me anymore.”
I would have preferred to keep this to myself, but if it can give her a little peace of mind, even if it’s not entirely the truth, it’s worth it.
Mama chuckles softly. “Honey, I’m your mother. I’m always g-going to worry about you.”
“Well, hopefully this at least eases your mind a bit,” I tease with a smile. “Are you hungry? How about I make you a berry smoothie and some soup?”
“That s-sounds delicious.” If she catches my attempt to redirect the conversation, she lets it slide. “I think I’ll t-take a short nap in the meantime.”
“Of course. Get some rest,” I murmur, pressing a kiss to her cheek.
She settles back against her pillows, her eyes drifting closed. Logan has joined his sister on Mama’s lap, and both are now dozing too, so I leave them where they are. No doubt when I get back, they’ll be awake and ready for breakfast too.
I climb off the bed and circle around to her side to adjust the comforter. A new paperback catches my eye on her nightstand—this one is a trending MM hockey romance. Lately, there’s been a book there every few days, and I’m not sure why, since the severe tremor in her hands makes holding a book or using an e-reader impossible.
Some of the nurses have offered to read to her, but she’s always turned them down. She prefers a deep male voice when listening to romance novels. So she’s either had a change of heart or maybe one of the nurses keeps their book here to read while Mama rests.
I head to the kitchen to begin breakfast, starting by turning on the coffee maker. I’m going to need all the caffeine I can gettoday. While it brews, I check my phone, and a smile crosses my lips when I see a new text message.
Walker: How’s your day going?
I snap a selfie of me preparing the kittens’ bottles.
Birdie: Playing hooky at Mama’s.
Walker: Sounds like the perfect excuse to skip work. Wish I could have tagged along.
Me too.
I have the unexpected urge to tell him about Mama’s Parkinson’s. I shake my head, pushing the thought aside. I’ve already shared so much with him, and I’m not sure it surfaced only because he’s been so patient and supportive about everything else—or because I’m just drained and desperate for a little comfort.
Walker: Have I mentioned how pretty you are?
Birdie: Once or twice, but I wouldn’t mind a refresher.
Walker: Then let me remind you. You’re stunning, and I’m counting down the minutes until I can see you again.
Birdie: Any idea when that might be?
I try to act nonchalant even though anticipation is bubbling beneath the surface.
Walker: How about tomorrow? I want to take you out again, and we can go back to my place if you’re up for it.
