Page 65 of This Means War

“Don’t be.” Gabby shoots us a mischievous look. “Kisses like that are what keep me in business.” Lydia’s blush darkens, but I just chuckle. “Anyway,” she goes on, “I hate to break things up, but I have approximately five minutes before I have to go. I just got called into the hospital.”

“Oh, too bad,” I can’t keep the smile off my face. “Well, thanks anyway for coming. I’ll see you out.”

“Hold on,” Lydia places a restraining hand on my bicep, “she said she has five minutes. You’re not getting out of this, Cole.” She crosses her arms across her chest, and her top rides up a little higher. Dang she’s cute.

“Fine,” I sigh, “let’s get this done.”

Lydia smiles in satisfaction. “Great. Gabby, lead the way.” Gabby turns to head back to the bedroom. Lydia starts to follow, but this time I hold her back.

“I’ll do the medical check,” I tell her in a low voice, “but you better believe I plan on picking up where we left off once she’s gone.”

“Cole,” there’s that blush again, “my brother is here! And Saul.”

“I guess we’re kicking them out then.”

She can’t stop the delighted giggle that escapes her. “Josh is making us dinner,” she tries once more to protest.

“I’m only hungry for one thing.”

Her lips part in a soft gasp, and fire shoots through me.

“Guys, seriously,” Gabby stands in the doorway shaking her head. “Five minutes.”

“Right, right.” Lydia shakes her head, then pushes me forward.

As I settle onto the bed a few seconds later, all I can think is that if Gabby gets out a stethoscope, she’s going to be in for a surprise because I’m pretty sure my heart is busy pledging its permanent allegiance to Lydia. It’ll be like that scene inThe Santa Clausewhere Tim Allen’s heart is beating the rhythm of “Santa Clause is Coming to Town,” except my heart is playing “My Girl” by the Temptations. They thoughttheyhad sunshine.

It’s this line of thinking that explains why at first I don’t register the concerned expression on Gabby’s face. She’s already listened to my heart andis removing the blood pressure cuff from my arm when I finally notice the crease of her brow.

“Everything okay, Gabby?” I ask, not worried despite her solemn face. She’s probably about to tell me I need to drink more water or something. Next to me Lydia stiffens, and I reach over and squeeze her hand reassuringly.

“Your heart rate is quite low,” Gabby says carefully, “and I could maybe explain that away with you being a runner, but you pair that with the fact that your blood pressure is also low and you’ve had a few fainting episodes and,” she sighs, “I mean, I’m not a doctor, but as a former nurse I’d say those three things are cause for concern. Though on the plus side, I see no signs of a concussion.”

“I’m just hypoglycemic,” I hurry to explain. “I forgot to eat today, that’s all.”

Gabby frowns. “Have you had any other weird symptoms of late, Cole? Weight loss? Increased thirst? Going to the bathroom more often?”

Now I frown. “I mean, maybe I’ve lost a few pounds, but I’ve been pretty stressed lately. There’s been a lot going on. And I drink a lot of water, sure, but that’s good for you.” I clear my throat, “And obviously, since I drink a lot of water, I go to the bathroom a lot. None of these are a big deal. I’ve got it under control.”

Gabby purses her lips. “Cole, again, I’m not a doctor, but I think you need to go see one.”

“Wait,” Lydia speaks up, “are you suggesting what I think you’re suggesting? That Cole has–”

“Diabetes. Yes.” Gabby nods. “I see diabetic mothers all the time. I know the symptoms.”

“But I’m 28,” I protest. “I can’t just be diabetic all of the sudden.”

“Adults get diagnosed with type 1 diabetes more than you think. It’s an autoimmune disorder, so things like stress or a virus can trigger it.”

I stare at her, unable to compute what she’s saying to me.

“We don’t know for sure that’s it,” Lydia speaks. “This is all just conjecture.”

“True,” Gabby nods, “but I highly suggest you see a doctor, Cole. Diabetes is manageable as long as you get the treatment you need. It’s not something you can just ignore and hope it’ll go away.”

I feel hollow at her words. It’s not a big deal, I try to tell myself and yet, it feels monumental. Diabetes. Insulin shots. Diet changes. Constant fear of having some sort of diabetic episode. Brokenness settles over me. I’m sick. What if Lydia doesn’t want me anymore? I’m not even sure how much she wants me now.

“Cole, it’s going to be okay,” Lydia’s voice in my ear pulls me out of my downward spiral. She slips her hand into mine and squeezes. I force myself to smile down at her, not wanting to show weakness.

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