Page 273 of By His Rule

“Okay, okay,” she soothes. “He won’t.”

“Thank you.”

“Just…call me tomorrow, yeah? I need to know more about what’s going on here.”

“Yeah,” I agree, sinking lower in the seat as Noelle pulls out of the airport and hits the highway.

It’s about a thirty-minute drive to the hospital they’ve taken Wilder to, and then another thirty to the town I’d happily never visit again.

“I’ll call you tomorrow.”

“Love you, Lor. I’ve got your back. Always.”

“Me too.”

I cut the call and lower my cell to my lap as the weight of the world presses down on my shoulders.

“Rix called while I was waiting for you. Wilder is awake and responsive.”

A huge puff of air rushes past my lips as relief floods through my body.

“Fuck,” I breathe.

Noelle reaches over and takes my hand. Tears immediately burn my eyes at her thoughtfulness.

“He’s going to be okay, Lori.”

“Thank you,” I force out. “For being there for them.”

She glances over and smiles.

She’ll never know how grateful I am for her presence in their lives. I know she’s the same age as them, but she’s such a good influence on them.

Sure, she’s Hendrix’s friend really, but she cares for Wilder too, in her own way.

“Anytime,” she whispers.

“So, how’s school?” I ask, knowing that it’s the easiest subject to talk to her about.

Just like us, Noelle’s home life is…hard.

She chats away, telling me about classes and what it’s like to finally be a senior.

Just like Wilder and Hendrix, Noelle really wants to leave this place and go to college.

She’s hoping to get a scholarship, but she’s also realistic.

Not many kids from towns like ours are lucky and get out.

I wish there was more I could do. I’d give the three of them the world if I had it.

But as it is, I struggle to look after the three of us. Sure, my new job helps massively, but with two boys in college, my extra funds aren’t going to last long.

It’ll be worth it, though. Anything that gives them the chance of a better life is worth it.

Before I know it, she’s pulling into the hospital parking lot. I jump out the second she comes to a stop and take off toward the main entrance with her hot on my tail.

“Third floor,” she says as I slow to a stop in front of the elevators.

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