Page 100 of One of Them Girls

Ignoring Tinsley, I turn to Jack. “Is she okay? You should be with her right now.”

He gives me a sad look. “She’s okay. She was a little shook seeing you like this, but I took her home. Rebecca stayed with her. She said she’d keep me updated.”

“I’m fine. I need you to go watch over her. She needs someone.”

He walks over to the bed. “She has someone. She has Rebecca. Rebecca said she was planning to head home for the break on Friday, anyway. I’ll go check on her until then, but then she’ll be with her parents.”

“Go take her dinner. Please, man. I know you’re concerned, but Tinsley is here with me. She needs you more.”

He sighs. “You really love her, don’t you?”

Swallowing hard, I nod, not caring about the pain.

“Fuck. Fine. I’ll go check on her, but when you’re discharged, I’m taking your ass home. No question.”

“Deal.”

I watch as he heads back out, bringing my attention back to Tinsley.

“Is she going to be okay? I didn’t understand why she left, but you make it sound like it’s a big deal.”

I sigh. “It’s not my story to tell, Tin. Hospitals hold bad memories for her. I’m surprised she was even able to walk in. It’s killing me I can’t be with her right now. If she’d even want me with her.”

She gives me a sad smile. “I think she wants you more than you realize. I think she’s battling her own demons right now, though. Give her time. She’ll come back around.”

“I’ll give her all the time she needs.” Changing the subject, I clear my throat. “So what does it take to get some more water?”

She shakes her head, laughing. “Why are men such babies when they get sick or hurt? Finley acts like he’s dying when he gets a cold.”

“Hey, I got hit by a truck.”

She sighs. “Yeah. Yeah. That was so five minutes ago.”

I shake my head. “To think, I made you my power of attorney.”

She laughs. “Hey, you’re the one who trusted me.”

“I know. Thank you for coming Tinsley.”

She smiles at me. “Anytime. Your family.”

18

Cassi

The past coupleof days have been a mess. Even though Jack assured me Xavier is fine, that block on my chest is still there. Add in the whirling emotions leftover from the hospital and I’m not sure where my head’s at anymore. Part of me wanted to see him, but I didn’t want to upset him in his condition. I know he would see it was a step in getting back together, when I’m not sure I’m ready for that yet.

I know Xavier came home yesterday, and I knew it was only a matter of time before he came to see me. Jack told me he was recovering well and even received clearance to drive.

“I’m so happy to have you home.” Mama squeezes me for the umpteenth time.

“It’s only for a couple of weeks. I do still have school. Besides, I come home on the weekends all the time.”

She smiles. “I know, but I still miss you when you’re away. Jerry, look at our baby all grown up. Coming back from her first semester at college.”

“Stop smothering the girl or else she won’t come back next time,” Dad teases.

“As if you could keep me away.” I walk over and hug him.

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