Page 5 of Every Single Wildflower
“He’s strong, mom,” I remind her.
“I know.” She glances up, blinking her eyes. “Lord knows he’s as stubborn as an ox.”
I let a slight chuckle slip past my lips at the fact that she still held her sense of humor.
“How was the drive? You must be tired.”
Of course she’s worried about me. Not the fact our lively hood could be completely destroyed.
“Don’t worry about me. How are you doing? What do you need?” I ask, my gaze meeting hers.
“I’m ok.” She flicks her hand over her shirt. “I don’t need much. My kids all in one place and your father healthy is all I need.”
Her arms reach out for me again, tugging me close as she sways us side to side. “Thank you.”
I nod, unable to form words.
“Why don’t you go check on your brother.” She tilts her head in the direction of the waiting room.
“I don’t think Ryder wants to talk to me.” I fiddle with the hem of my shirt. “He’s angry.”
She rolls her eyes. “He’ll get over it. You know how he is. Anger is his choice of emotion when he doesn’t know how to sort out his feelings.”
Typical man.
“I’ll let you know when the doctor gives us an update," she offers.
“Ok.”
With one more squeeze, she opens the door, speaking in a low voice to Cooper. Breathing out the heavy emotions twisting inside of me, I make my way back to the waiting room. Ryder sits in the corner, his broad frame almost too big for the chair. Like Cooper, it’s clear they were in the middle of the turmoil. He’s covered in residue as well, his worn hat resting low on his head, covering his eyes.
Taking a seat next to him, I peek out of the corner of my eye, but he doesn’t move, nor does he speak right away. I’m not sure if he’s asleep, or just ignoring me, but my question is answered when he rumbles from beneath his hat.
“That seat is taken.”
Home sweet home.
Chapter three
Ivy
I must have dosed. The next thing I knew I was prying my eyes open to see Cooper crouched down in front of me.
“Hey. They just told us the doctor won't be by until tomorrow morning. It’s already almost midnight. Why don’t you go back to the ranch and rest. You can come back tomorrow.”
I frown, my fingers reaching up to rub the sleep from my eyes.
“But mom,” I start.
“Mom insisted.” He stands. “And we both know she doesn’t like it when we don’t listen. I’ll stay out here.”
He has a point.
“I’ll walk you out,” he adds.
Gathering my purse, I follow him out of the waiting room. It’s empty, so I’m assuming Ryder has already left. We make it down the elevator and into the parking lot.
“You can just stay in Houston’s old room at the cabin. It’s empty.” He grips me in a hug. “Watch for deer.”
