Page 69 of Stables

But medical school was a breeze. It was all about learning then regurgitating the answers.

Then, I was floating without purpose untilher.

Char has flipped a switch in me.

At first it was about keeping her safe.

Now, it’s just about keeping her.

And showing her just how damn strong she really is.

The plastic bag on my passenger seat bleeds condensation when I pick it up and carry it to the porch.

Pausing, my hand sits on the handle of the door.

She told me not to knock.

When I push the worn brass down and step into the living room, I feel like I’ve pushed through some sort of veil.

Ibelonghere.

The broad smile on Char’s face just solidifies the feeling.

“Hi.” Her blue eyes focus on the food in my hand. “Oh. You didn’t have to—”

“I wanted to. But I didn’t know what you liked, so I got a little of everything.” Okay, a lot. There has to be fifteen pounds of nacho stuff here.

After toeing off my boots, I carry it into the kitchen and set it on the bare counter.

I’ll lay everything out, she can decide what she feels like.

There’s a tug on the knee of my jeans.

“Uppie.” Paisley holds her palms above her head, clenching her fingers.

“Yes, ma’am.” I scoop her up so she straddles my waist, then continue pulling styrofoam containers out of the bag.

“I try some? Please?” She loses the ‘L’ in her word making it sound more like “peas”.

It’s cute that she uses manners.

“Char? Is there anything she can’t have?” I start to call over my shoulder, but see she’s moving closer.

At least tonight she’s wearing a button down shirt and jeans.

Safer than those damn red shorts.

She peels the lids off of a few of the containers. “I don’t think she’s ever tried shrimp, but everything here is fair game.” Picking up a sliver of chicken, she holds it up so Paisley can reach it.

“Do you like it?” I snag a curled up piece between my fingers.

“Oh, yes. It’s just, um, I haven’t bought any in a long time.” Her lower lip rolls between her teeth.

I bet I know why.

“Here.” I dangle the bit of seafood in front of her tantalizing mouth.

Take it. Show me you’ll let me feed you.

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