Page 60 of Right in Front of You

“What do you mean?”

“Even his family disowned him. I really thought he’d be there for his brother when Sarah got sick.”

I narrowed my brows. “Right. Ron is Sarah’s estranged uncle.”

“Yes, but don’t say that in front of Sarah. I don’t think she even knows they’re related.”

“Wait – was Ron Fowler tested for compatibility for Sarah? For bone marrow?”

“I don’t think so. Even if he were a match, though, that man is a drunk. His liver and kidneys probably resemble Swiss cheese, and he wouldn’t qualify.”

Right.

“But if they’re compatible.”

“Wouldn’t make any difference. Unless he’s on his death bed, doctors would never consider such a transplant.”

I felt a familiar chill pass through me, as if someone was trying to guide me.

“Doctor Burke… I don’t know why, but I have this feeling that we should ask Ron Fowler to do a test.”

“Carter, a test is more than just blood work and Ron Fowler would never agree to one.”

“Too bad. A little girl’s life could be saved.” I sighed.

“You’re a good man, Carter. You’ve always been very protective of Molly. You still are. It’s a respectable trait.”

“Well, some people are worth taking a chance on, and Molly’s one of them. Look how many people she’ll be able to help – even save – as a doctor. She’s going to be amazing.” I smiled.

“I’m glad things are turning out good for the two of you. I had my doubts for a while there.”

“Why?”

“Well, you two have known each other for a long time.”

“Since childhood.”

“Sometimes the decisions we make in our early years aren’t the best ones.”

What was he getting at?

“I’m glad you two stayed safe, Carter. Real glad. And I’m glad that Molly has a good friend in you.”

I was the lucky one. By the time I had a chance to ask him what he meant by us staying safe, I was called into the doctor’s office. He changed my bandages and assessed the wounds, after which he posed ten thousand questions about my state of mind and workout habits, and checked the charts I had to complete each time I changed my own dressing at home or let Molly take care of it. After growling, huffing and puffing, and telling me that I wasn’t doing it often enough, he released me. That was of course after another fifteen minutes of me promising to follow the instructions.

On my way out, I stopped by Sarah’s room, but she was still sleeping. I peeked in and closed my eyes.

Thank you, I heard and almost fell over in my wheelchair — if that was even possible.

“Daisy?” I whispered.

But she didn’t reply. Still, I felt her presence like I’d never felt before. Her voice confirmed that the plan I had set in motion was the right one. Surviving that fire was slowly beginning to make sense. My recovery was not only crucial for me, but also for Sarah and for her family.

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