Page 57 of Breached

“All right, let me see what I can do on my end. I can’t promise anything, but the fact that you called might sway some votes.”

“That’s all I ask. Thank you.” I hung up and tucked the conversation away. I figured it might come out in time, but if it didn’t, I was okay with that too. I’d done what I could.

With new determination, I decided to face the house. I dressed quickly and headed downstairs.

Chase’s giggles from somewhere made me smile. I wanted to see him and followed the delightful sound to where the little guy was playing in the living room with the old house cat, Scoot, and Olivia.

“Good morning, Miss Olivia,” I greeted her as I came into the room. I tried hard to sound upbeat.

“Mama!” Chase shrieked with excitement as he stood on wobbly legs and headed toward me. “Mama, I come!”

“Hi, big guy, look at you!” I scooped him up. The unexpected movement made me hiss. My side was still sore.

“Are you okay?” Olivia jumped up and held out a hand.

“I’m okay, just still healing.” I kissed Chase on the cheek and looked at her. “What are you up to today?” I was cautious, as I wasn’t sure how much had been shared with her about what was to come.

“Everyone seems busy with things this morning. Mom asked if I’d hang out with Chase until ten. She moved up Easton’s new prosthetic fitting to this afternoon. He wasn’t supposed to get it until day after tomorrow.”

I nodded, knowing why Savannah had done that, and concern flooded through me again. I couldn’t let Olivia see.

“How does he feel about getting that?” I asked her.

“Truth, I don’t even think he cares.” She shrugged. “He’s having the time of his life with his wheelchair now that he can outrun Liam and Ethan in tag.”

I laughed but noticed she was studying me and, I hoped she didn’t pick up on my worry.

“Is there something on your mind, Olivia?” I sat Chase on the floor between us and plopped down with a grimace.

“It was a shock when I found out about Uncle Paul, too,” she blurted. Oh, that’s it. “I’m the one who wants to know what’s happening in this house. It’s what I hope my job will be someday. I love my dad. He’s my hero, but I don’t want to be on one of the teams. I want to be a badass like Mom, here at the house working behind the scenes and keeping everything together.”

“That’s a wonderful thing to want to be, Olivia. I think your mom is great.”

“Thank you.” She smiled. “But what I really want to say is I feel bad that Uncle Paul didn’t tell you. I know you’re hurt. I heard Mom and Dad talking about it. Dad said he wondered how he was going to find a way to explain, especially about Chase.” She brushed the back of her finger down Chase’s little cheek.

“Yes, it’s a lot to take in, and I won’t say I’m not upset, but I’m trying to understand.” I smiled at her. I hated that she had to carry that. “You’re a kind young woman, and I’m very glad you’re here.”

“If you ever need to talk, I’m your girl.” She smiled and tickled Chase. “It’s almost time to take him to Mia. She’s next to have this little guy.”

“He’s a lucky little boy to have everyone looking out for him.” I felt my throat get tight, and she looked at me.

“Uncle Paul can’t keep his eyes off you, especially when you’re holding him. I guess now it makes sense. He wants you to love his son.” Insightful kid.

I gave her a hug when I spotted Dr. Bash heading toward his office.

“I need to go, but I’ll see you later, okay?”

“Dr. Bash,” I called, stopping him mid-stride, “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to talk last night. Perhaps you have a few moments to chat now.”

His eyes crinkled behind thick glasses and he seemed very pleased. “Yes, I certainly do. Give me two seconds to get set up, and I’m all yours.”

“Thanks.” I hung back while he went to prepare. I wasn’t sure how I felt about opening up to someone, but with a few glances from Doc Roberts at the meeting the night before, I figured I’d better follow the house rules about the mental health sessions. The last thing everyone needed at such a stressful time was to worry about me.

My side hurt from holding Chase, and I leaned on the table to relieve a little of the pain. “Oh, ouch.” I let out a long breath. “Ohhhh.”

I hadn’t heard the front door open, and suddenly Paul was there. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” I stood straight but flinched.