Page 136 of Billion Dollar Mistake

“Wait,” I call out.

She spins around. “Yes, Mr. Lincoln?”

“When can I go visit my girlfriend, Nova? She’s in the ICU.”

“You need to be seen by the doctor before you can leave the room. So it won’t be until tomorrow at the earliest.”

“Tomorrow? I can’t wait that long.”

“I’m sorry, but you don’t have a choice. You also need to rest.”

I want to argue, but I know it’s pointless. I blow out a frustrated breath. I need to see her with my own eyes.

I don’t say any of that out loud. Instead, I just stare at the nurse who looks at me with pity.

Guilt fills my stomach. Does she blame me? Does she know I was typing an email and wasn’t paying attention to the road?

I don’t deserve Nova. This is why I could never be with a woman. All I do is let them down by working too much.

This time it cost me more than just a breakup. This time it could cost a life.

The nurse leaves the room without another word. My parents are sitting in chairs silent. I’m grateful for the silence because I’m not in the mood to chat.

I’m too busy rolling around in self-pity. Mom and Dad are on their phones typing away. Reminding me…

“Where’s my phone?”

“You’re not planning to work, are you?” My dad says, his disapproval evident.

I haven’t even considered working or checking my emails. Right now, thinking about it fills me with self-loathing and a nauseous sensation.

“No. I’m just asking.”

“It’s probably in the bag of personal items the police put together,” my dad replies matter-of-factly.

“Which is where?” I ask.

“In the cupboard.” Mom answers.

“Can you get it?”

“Ask her nicely, Son,” my dad says sternly.

“Please, Mom.”

I know I’m back to being grumpy, but I’m mad at myself.

“Sure.” She stands, giving me a smile.

She heads to the cupboard and pulls out a plastic bag. The room door opens, and I turn my head, hoping it’s a doctor who will allow me to see Nova. But I see my family. Oliver, Harvey, Evan, and lastly, Grams.

They say hi to Mom and Dad before coming to me at the bed.

“Don’t you look happy,” Oliver teases.

“Shut up, dickbag.”

“Good to see your mouth still works,” he replies.

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