I try to hold back tears. “Oh, sweetie, that’s amazing!”
“I don’t need to go to the hospital for six months,” Amber continues. “But Skye isn’t happy about that.”
“Oh? Why not?”
“Because she likes the chocolate pudding.”
I let out a watery laugh as the tears start pouring down my cheeks.
“Amber, I’m so relieved you’re feeling better. I’ve been so worried about you,” I manage to say despite the lump in my throat.
“You don’t need to worry, Auntie Fi!”
I hold the phone even tighter, wishing it were her instead. “That’s my job as your auntie. I have to worry.”
“When can I show you my cool scar?”
“Oh… I’m not sure?—”
“Daddy said you can come and visit.”
“He did?” I ask, though I’m not surprised.
He would be an idiot to ignore my ultimatum.
“So, can you come and visit? I really miss you.”
I swallow the lump in my throat, a mix of relief and joy threatening to overwhelm me at the idea of seeing my nieces.
“Of course, I’ll come! I’ll make the arrangements today. I promise.”
I chat with Amber for a little longer, soaking up every word and savoring the sound of her laughter.
When the call ends, my heart feels like it’s about to burst at the thought of seeing my nieces, and knowing that Cormac was the one to make that happen makes it all the more sweet.
I throw back the covers and practically jump out of bed. I quickly throw on a pair of leggings and a jumper and rush out of the bedroom, hoping to catch Cormac before the business of the day snatches his attention.
“Cormac?” I call out as I hurry down the stairs.
Voices come from the kitchen, and I almost collide with one of the maids on the stairs as she brings up a basket of fresh towels.
“Have you seen Cormac?” I practically yell at her.
She looks a little startled and shakily points toward the kitchen.
“Thanks!” I call out as I sprint down the remaining stairs.
I catch the smell of fresh coffee mixed with buttery toast as I burst into the kitchen.
Cormac is leaning against the counter, clutching a mug of coffee.
He’s deep in conversation with Brennan, who is bent over the island and scrolling on his tablet.
“Cormac.” I’m sure whatever they are discussing is important, but right now I’m too excited to be polite.
Cormac’s head snaps up, and his eyes quickly flick over me, a crease appearing between his brows, instantly on alert.
“What’s wrong? What’s happened?”
