Page 42 of Memphis

“It’s hard to say. There are lots of factors to consider.”

“Like what?” Preacher sounded irritated as he added, “He’s been making improvements. He’s strong and healthy, so what’s the hold up?”

“There are other things to evaluate.”

“Such as?”

“He has to be able to function safely at home, which means his house will need to be wheelchair accessible—at least, for the time being, and he will need things like a shower stand and possibly bed railings.”

“Okay. We can do that.”

“He’s recovering well, but he’s still going to need someone there to help him get from his chair to the bed or to take a shower or make sure he has food. That could be a nurse or a friend. That’s up to you.”

Before I realized what I was doing, I stepped over to them both and announced, “I could do it.”

“What?”

“I could stay with him.” Preacher just stood there staring back at me, so I added, “I don’t know what all it would entail, but someone could show me, and I’m sure you’ll be close by if I needed you.”

“Yeah, I would be, but what about your job?”

“I’ve already been doing most of my work at Weston’s place, and when I need to go back, you or one of his brothers could cover for me.”

“So, you’re serious about this?”

“Yeah, I am, but there’s one thing you might want to consider.”

“Okay. What’s that?”

“Weston.”

Memphis

“No fucking way!”

“It’s your chance to go home.”

“Not like this. I’d rather stay here.”

“You don’t mean that.”

“The hell I don’t!” I snapped. “I’d rather have a bullet in my head than have her wipe my ass.”

“Oh, give me a break. You can wipe your own ass. You’ve been doing it from day one.” Dad shook his head. “You’re just being difficult.”

“It’s bad enough that she has to see me in that damn chair. I don’t want her taking care of me.”

“Memphis.”

“I’m serious, Dad. Get Nikki or Star to do it.” I hadn’t made a huge deal of it, but I was starting to get some real feeling back in my extremities. I was still struggling to get around, but every day, I was getting stronger. “For that matter, I can just take care of myself. I can get around well enough.”

"Not well enough to be completely on your own. You won't be ready for that for several weeks. You need someone there, full-time.”

“Okay, fine. I need help, but why’s it gotta be Antonia? Why can’t it be one of the guys or a nurse?”

“We could do that.” He cocked his brow. “If that’s what you really want.”

Damn.

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