Page 57 of Second Chance in Charlevoix
“Sort of.” She drew back. “Don’t you be making fun of me.”
“Never. I’ll make funwithyou,” he said, his grin coming back. “But neveratyou. Thanks for coming, Izzy.”
How could he have thought that she wouldn’t come? “Of course I’m here.” And this was where she wanted to be. Being with Skipper felt right. Over the last few weeks, she’d grown fond of Skipper’s mom. Irene had gone out of her way to welcome Izzy into her home. And she’d formed a bond with Holly.
A nurse came in. “Dr. Prentice has been notified.”
“Good. She’s been my mother’s doctor for years.”
That was the longest night ever. When Mrs. Malone was returned to her room, she seemed a little dazed but was her old self. “What’s all the fuss about? I was just gardening.”
“But, Mom, what happened?” Skipper took her hand.
While Skipper talked to his mother, Marlowe and Sam both called to tell her Holly was fine. Izzy stepped out into the hall while they asked her questions she couldn’t answer.
“What are they saying?” Sam asked.
“They are waiting for some tests. But she’s awake.” Then she dropped her voice. “And as sassy as ever.”
“We’re all praying for you, sweetie.” Aunt Cate had taken the phone. “Holly’s right here with us. She’s fine.”
“Wrecking the place, I imagine.”
“Well, your daughter is a lot like you,” Marlowe hollered in the background.
“Maybe she takes after her aunt,” Izzy shot back. Sam started chuckling and the laughter was good. It was just what Izzy needed. Then a nurse appeared to wheel Irene away to another test. She waved good-bye.
“I think she’s enjoying all the attention,” Skipper murmured, scratching his head.
“I’m just glad she’s awake and seems fine.”
What would Izzy do without her family? They were all here in Charlevoix now so she might never have to face a situation like this alone. That was a reassurance. What would Skipper have done if anything had happened to his mother? Losing Irene would be terrible for him.
When Dr. Wilson, the ER doctor, stopped in some time later, he had good news. “No brain bleed. Although she hit something when she fell, the fall wasn’t serious. This time.” But he was waiting for the results of the test she was having now and encouraged them to go outside. “Why don’t you get some fresh air? We’ll call you if anything changes.”
Although she had a hard time convincing Skipper that they should take a break, eventually they went outside. The fresh air felt wonderful. They walked through the parking lot to the edge of the property, where beach lay just below. Waves rolled onto the shore with a reassuring rhythm. She loved the sound of it.
“Funny how your life can change in the blink of an eye,” Skipper said, arms crossed as he studied the beach below.
“I know. We were so carefree at Seth’s party, right?”
Skipper turned with a twisted smile on his face, like he wanted to go back to that time. “I guess nothing is ever guaranteed.”
“Please don’t feel that way.” Had she failed him? She was beginning to think that was the case. “I’m here for you.”
They were so close. She could feel his breath. Sense his sadness. A ton of regrets weighed on her heart. Had she been ignoring the feelings she still had for Skipper? She’d been telling herself that her feelings were just memories when actually they were the love she had for Skipper Malone today. The sweet way he danced with Holly. The care he took with his mother. And the love in his eyes whenever he looked at her.
“What’s wrong?” Skipper was studying her.
“Nothing.” What would he do if she took hishand? She didn’t know how to deal with any of this. Best to be open and honest. Her aunt’s words came back to her. Maybe she did want someone else in her life, someone who cared about her. And there was no other man she’d rather have by her side. “I’ve been an idiot, Skipper. I don’t know why you put up with me. I…”
With every word, he’d come closer. A smile replaced his frown. He brought a finger to her lips. Maybe it’s a good thing he silenced her because before she knew it, she was blubbering.
“Shush. This is an emotional time, Izzy. Don’t say anything you might regret tomorrow.” The poor guy. She saw the shadow of rejection in his eyes. Knowing that she’d put it there made her feel worse.
“But I love you, Skippy.” There she’d said it. “Nothing will change that.”
Pulling away, he looked stricken. Like he didn’t believe her. “Izzy, don’t.”
