“She’s also upset about learning that Susan died in a fall last night. Is that why the cops are here?” Hailey asked.
Dr. Daniels turned to her, a sad smile on his lips. “I’m sure it’s more about Mr. Halpern. He died last night.”
“Gus died? Oh no. You know, he was a brilliant trial attorney before he retired. How sad,” Patty said.
“It is. I didn’t know he used to be a lawyer,” Dr. Daniels replied.
“What was wrong with him?” Hailey asked.
“He had dementia, dear. An old friend and colleague of his came to see him, and then he sat down in the lobby, tears streaming down his face. We got to talking and he told me all about Gus. A brilliant man before the disease.”
“That is sad. Isn’t he like the fifth one to die around here? Don’t you find that more than a coincidence, Doctor?” Hailey said.
Clearing his throat, he popped his head out the door, then turned to look at her. “Actually, I do, and apparently, so do the police. I shouldn’t have said what I did, so please don’t tell anyone you heard about Mr. Halpern from me.”
“Was he your patient?” Hailey asked.
Shaking his head, he said, “Dr. Tyrell’s. Sometimes I’d stop in if I was the only doctor on the floor. It’s a shame. And now we’ve lost Susan. She was a wonderful person. Once in a while, we used to go to Bulldog Pub and have a pint. She told me it reminded her of Ireland.” He stared vacantly at the wall.
“I didn’t know her that well, but she was always nice and cheerful whenever I went in to talk with her,” Hailey said.
He smiled. “I have to finish my rounds. I’m glad to see how well you’re progressing, Patty. Keep it up and I may release you sooner than two months.”
“I can’t wait to get home. It seems that every week or so someone’s dying around here.” Patty grasped her arms and shuddered.
“I know. It must be awful being here. Seven months is more than enough.” Hailey sat at the edge of the bed.
“What are you doing this weekend?” Patty asked.
“Goldie and I are going to a party.”
“I can’t get used to calling him Goldie. Why did he change his name? Garth is so much nicer.”
“It has something to do with the club he’s in. All the guys have road names. It’s just what they do. He told me that his mom and dad were obsessed with Garth Brooks and Bob Dylan, so they named him Garth and his younger brother Dylan.”
“You like him, don’t you?”
“I always liked Goldie.”
“I meanreallylike him.”
Hailey shrugged. “I guess. I mean, we have a good time.”I’m crazy about him, but I’m scared to think about it.
Patty patted her hand. “If he’s the right guy for you, your heart will tell you. Does Ryan know you two have been dating?”
She grimaced. “No. I’m not sure how he’ll react.”Yes I do. He’s going to be so pissed because he warned me to not get involved with Goldie.
“I would think he’d be happy for you and Garth. After all, he’s known Garth most of his life, and they’re still friends. You should tell him. By keeping it secret, it’ll make him feel like he can’t trust you.”
“I know, you’re right. I’ll tell him.”Someday.
“So where’s the party you’re going to?”
“At Goldie’s clubhouse.”
“Is it a dinner party?”
“Not exactly.”
