Page 98 of In the Long Run
‘How far away are you guys?’Caleb asks.
‘Twenty minutes.’My voice wavers and I clear my throat.
‘All good, buddy.I’ll ride with Eugene and meet you at the hospital.’
Gen hasn’t left my side since Caleb’s call.We’re still in our sweaty running gear, each with our Croissants and Kilometres hoodies tossed over the top.Her hair is a snarled mess and, honestly, mine’s probably not much better.The whole way here, she held my hand and kept up a steady stream of chatter about the training runs we have scheduled for this week, some new exercises she wants to add to her strength workout and when she should start planning a baby shower for Meredith.She asked me questions but made them easy to answer.
And I know why.
She didn’t want me alone with my thoughts.
She didn’t want me to beat myself up for failing someone I love again.
‘Knox.’Gen tugs on my hand.‘Did you hear that?’
‘No.’I blink at the on-call doctor who’s clearly waiting for me to say something.‘Sorry.’
‘We’re going to keep Eugene in overnight,’ he says.He’s a short man with lank blond hair that skims his jawline and the tired slouch of someone who’s worked a long shift.
Eugene groans but it’s a feeble sound, no bark or bite, a clear indication that his frustration at being back in hospital has been smothered by fatigue.Poor guy also can’t keep anything down at the moment.
‘We’re going to run a few more tests, and I want to get some fluids into you,’ he tells Eug.
‘I’ll stay with him,’ I say.
‘No, you won’t.’Eugene’s frown deepens the lines on his face.‘You’ll go home.There’s nothing you can do for me here, mate.’
But I’d be with him.That’s reason enough for me.‘Eug—’
‘Someone’s got to take care of Madeleine and Chouquette.’
There’s literally a whole list of people who could do that.It’s another reminder of the life and community I’ve rebuilt here.
Gen squeezes my hand, her palm soft and tiny in mine but she’s so strong.‘Why don’t I go and get us some water?’
‘Thanks.’
The doctor finishes up his notes and leaves the room right after she does.
‘I’m not in the mood to argue,’ Eugene starts.
‘Neither am I.’
‘And there’s nothing you can do for me here.’
‘I could keep you company.’Damn it, I should’ve thought to bring our book with me.
He snorts softly and then winces.‘I’m not going to be much company, mate.I’m going to rest and be grumpy.’
I look at him, serious.‘I don’t want to leave you.’
I’m not just referring to leaving Eugene in hospital.There’s Yeti and Celeste.Croissants and Kilometres.All my new friends.And … I swallow the lump that appears in my throat.
How am I going to leave Gen?My plan to stay is currently stalled at the ideas stage because my CO’s on leave and my career adviser’s off sick.Without them on board, I’m sunk.
‘I know.But you can’t help me right now.They’ll call you if they need to.Go and be with your girl.Get some rest.You haven’t stopped for days.I promise I’ll be fine.’
The door opens again with a soft snick, Gen’s shoes squeaking against the linoleum.
