Page 55 of Free to Fall

“Jillian’s daughter is permanently wheelchair-bound,” Keene explains.

“So, what you’re saying is Gore worked her usual miracles and introduced two little girls who will likely be best friends for life?” Tony injects.

“You got it,” Keene concurs.

“I’m obviously not paying her enough,” I think aloud.

Keene chokes on thin air. “I think you’re paying more than enough. You’re paying enough for six nannies, Liam.”

I flush. “I was desperate.”

“Well, your desperation may be the best thing to happen to Laura. I haven’t seen her that carefree in public since the attack on the hospital.”

I feel grateful this time it’s Tony who lets out the string of curses. Still, “I shudder to imagine what would happen if they hadn’t taken care of the shooter.”

Keene’s eyes narrow. “The shooter should be grateful we didn’t get to him first.”

“Damn straight,” Tony concurs vehemently.

“The police killing him once wasn’t enough?”

Keene and Tony exchange complicated glances before Keene explains, “Let’s just say, it triggered some old family wounds.”

I wonder if what happened to Laura was so traumatic she won’t be able to return to the work she was passionate about before. But before I can voice the question, both men leave my office. After all, I know all about actions leaving scars on the heart. I’ll never get over what happened to me.

Still, I sit back and scroll through the photos she sent again with a smile curving my lips. Then I respond to Laura’s text.

Liam:

She looks so happy.

Laura:

She is.

Liam:

If I overreacted. I sincerely apologize.

Laura:

Apology accepted.

Liam:

Will you forgive me if I admit to being a little jealous?

Laura:

Of what?

Liam:

Oh, I don’t know. Not only did you help Bailey make a new friend, you managed to take her to the beach. It’s something she’s wanted to do for a while.

Laura:

Things worked out.

---