Page 98 of Cause and Effect

“What doctor, Julian?”

“Dr. Emilia Kind at the Kind Medical Center. She’s a pediatrician and a damn good one.”

“Youtook her to the doctor?”

“Yes. She has a 103 fever. She needed medical attention.”

“Thank you, Julian. I have to get back to court. I’ll behome as soon as it’s over. It doesn’t look like I’ll be out in time to pick the other two girls up from school.”

“Don’t worry about that. Sam will pick them up and bring them home.”

“Thanks, Julian. Give Sara a kiss from me and tell her I love her and will be home as soon as I can.”

“I will. Good luck in court.”

When we arrived home, I carried Sara up the stairs and helped her into her pajamas.

“Sam is going to stop and get your medication along with some Tylenol,” I stroked her forehead. “I’ll bring it up and give it to you as soon as he returns.”

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Laurel

As soon as court let out, I raced to Julian’s house. Walking through the door, I saw Stella and Sophie sitting on the couch, eating ice cream and watching TV.

“Where’s Julian?” I asked.

“Upstairs with Sara,” Stella said.

I set my briefcase down and went upstairs to Sara’s room. Carefully opening the door, I stood there and stared at Julian, sitting up with his back against the headboard, sound asleep with Sara curled up next to him—a feeling washed over me—a wave of warmth and contentment. I stepped inside the room, and Julian’s eyes flew open.

“What time is it?” he asked.

“After five.”

“Oh shit! Stella and Sophie!”

“They’re downstairs watching TV.” I smiled.

Sara stirred as I ran my hand down her hair. “Mom?”

“Hey, baby.” I kissed her forehead. “How are you feeling?”

“A little better since Julian gave me Tylenol.”

“How about a popsicle for your throat?” Julian asked her.

“Yeah.” She smiled.

We went down to the kitchen, and I noticed the bruises on Julian’s knuckles.

“What happened to your hand?”

“Uh, I don’t remember.”

“Bullshit, Julian.” I narrowed my eyes at him.

“Let’s just say I had to get a little anger out.” He winked.

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