“What do you think?”
“I think you need a little rest.”
“Are you crazy?”
“I honestly think you’re pushing yourself too hard – you need to rest.”
Again, I remembered her mother’s warning about Lily’s lack of boundaries, and once more I realized there was no way to set them. I’d once joked to her: “You’re impossible.”
“Can only you get to be busy all day – with the army, the clinic, the hospital, the diving, and the shifts?” she shot back.
“I’d be happy if you weren’t as busy as me.”
“Do you want to fight with me?”
“Not at all. I just worry about you.”
“If I have to die, you’ll be the first to know…”
“Lily! Stop!” I begged. I couldn’t bear to hear her speak of that possibility, not even sarcastically.
“I told them I’d be more than happy to teach the teens,” she said angrily.
“Lily,” I tried to get closer.
She pulled away. She seemed angry. Very angry.
“You know I love you so much, and want only what’s best for you.”
I reached for her hand. She pulled it back. Suddenly I was scared. I was afraid I was losing her.
“Stop trying to protect me. I’m a grown woman.”
“Do they know you’re on steroids?” I wouldn’t let it go.
“Michael, I think you’ve lost your mind!” she said, raising her voice and taking refuge in her studio. At least she left the door open.
“Why?” I stood in the doorway.
“No. Nobody knows anything.”
“Didn’t they give you a medical exam before you started working?”
“You signed the form saying I’m healthy – did you forget?”
She was right. I had signed, after much hesitation.
“Yes. I forgot. Because to me, too, you are healthy. I’m sorry.”
“I forgive you.”
“How many students do you have in the youth center class?” I asked one evening, after I’d seen her through the window, walking with more than ten kids.
“Why?”
“Do they all walk you home?”
“Most of them – the ones who live on this side of town. Stop with the questions. I’m so happy, I’d rather we drink to life!”
