Page 37 of The Burnt
A nurse walked in and took Gran’s vitals. Charlie gently rubbed Gran’s shoulder. “Is it serious, nurse?”
The nurse turned his attention to Gran. “We’re still waiting for the results of your blood work. Then I think they’re scheduling a CT scan just to rule out anything up here,” he said, tapping his head, “which might have caused your blackout. The good news is your vitals are stable, but we still have to get that wrist looked after. The surgeon will be in to see you shortly.”
The nurse headed out of the room.
Charlie grabbed Gran’s good hand. “Sorry I haven’t been around lately.”
“I know you’ve been busy. Still in the detective business?” she asked.
“I am.”
“Good. Good for you.”
“I got a promotion,” he said with a grin.
“Wonderful! I hope it includes benefits.” The slight smile on her lips said volumes. She knew he was seeing Declan outside of work.
Charlie’s mother interrupted the conversation. “I hope Charlie’s been no bother for you, Carrie.”
“I have to tell you, Mrs Watts, it’s been so nice having him live with me. We had a great time over the weekend shopping for some new furniture and knickknacks for the place.”
“Oh?”
Charlie’s mother’s eyes lit up. “Are you two planning on moving into a bigger place?”
“No, Mother,” he said firmly.
Gran spoke up. “Could I talk to Charlie in private, please? It’s important.”
Carrie looked at Gran, then Maggie and Ted. “Why don’t I take you to the cafeteria for a coffee? I can tell you all about what we bought for our place.”
Carrie dragged Ted and Maggie out of the room.
Gran chuckled. “I swear they won’t be happy until you and Carrie get married and have a child. I think they’d even settle for just the latter.”
“A child out of wedlock?” Charlie gasped in mock horror. “What will the neighbours think?”
“Ah, Charlie. I’ve missed you. So, tell me. How’s your life with your detective going?”
“I think everything is going fine.”
“Still mad about him, then?” Gran asked.
“Mad, and frustrated.”
“Well, life isn’t always like a fairy tale.”
“With me, Gran, it’s always a fairy tale.”
A broad smile filled her face.
“Glad you haven’t lost your sense of humour. I’d love to meet your detective some time. From what you’ve told me, I think I’d like him.”
“I know he’d love you. I’ll just have to find a time when Mom and Dad aren’t around so we can actually talk.”
“Well, you can bring him around here when they’re gone, but you know what, Charlie? This fall has made me realise that I won’t be around forever. And I’d love it if, before I die, I could see you truly happy.”
“What do you mean?” Charlie asked.
