Page 162 of Delicate Storm

“Thank you. I appreciate that. But what are we going to do?”

“I wish I knew.”

We hang up as we both pull into the driveway, and I’m running toward the house the second I exit the car.

Isaac’s on the couch when I make it inside, his arms wrapped around his legs while my Mom tries to comfort him.

“I’m okay, Isaac. I promise.”

“Isaac?” I call out, and his gaze flashes to mine before his eyes fill with water.

“Dad.” He runs over and I bite my cheek to stave off my tears as his little voice trembles. “Nana got hurt.”

I drop to my knees and engulf him in my arms, gently rocking him back and forth. “She’s okay, Buddy. Are you okay?”

“I didn’t fall.” His face scrunches and I almost laugh.

“You’re right. You didn’t.”

Lifting him as I stand, I walk over to Mom and sit down beside her. I’m about to ask her how she is when Keeley walks in, and Isaac jumps out of my arms to meet her.

Her puzzled expression meets mine and I nod toward the kitchen.

“Hey Isaac, want to come and get something to eat with me?” Keeley asks, taking my hint.

“Yes.” He runs ahead and the second they’re gone, I turn to Mom.

“How—”

“I’m so sorry, Easton. I thought I was okay. I—”

“What? No, Mom. This isn’t your fault. I just want to know that you’re all right.”

“I feel fine. I don’t even know what happened. I just fell and couldn’t get up for a minute.”

God. “Maybe you’re doing too much? Maybe you need more time.”

“I hate this. I’m too young for this.”

“You’re old, Mom. What are you saying?” Mom laughs and I pull her into a hug. “Are you sure you don’t need to go to the hospital?”

“I’m sure.”

“Then what are we going to do with you? Put you out to pasture?”

“Oh, stop it.” She shoves me away, but smiles. “Thank you. I really am sorry I upset Isaac.”

“Don’t be.” I shake my head. “He cares. But he’ll be okay.”

Phil pops his head in, so I hug Mom and go in search of Isaac and Keeley, thanking Phil on my way past, shelving my concern until later.

When I find them in the kitchen, they’re making dinner with Isaac smiling brightly. I sneak past and make my way outside, calling Paige and once again getting her voicemail.

With a groan, I allow myself to break, falling onto the outdoor lounge chair, burying my face in my hands, and trying hard not to scream.Why does life have to be so goddamn complicated?

Lying down, I rest my head against the backrest and sigh. I’ve neverneededa woman in my life, never relied on anyone to lift my mood, at least not forme. But right now, IneedPaige…more than anything. I’m at a loss for what to do.

Easton: Call me when you can. Please. I’m not going to make it home tonight and I need to hear your voice

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