Page 87 of A Me and Him Thing
“Appreciate it. I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks again.”
To me Ren says, “That kid isn’t coming anywhere near my kids. No way. Not that he’s a bad person or anything but I’d rather not expose them to constant drinking and smoking at their ages.”
“No need to explain. A drunk babysitter is not exactly in high demand.”
The door opens, the entire family standing in the foyer to greet us.
“Welcome home!” everyone shouts.
Home. This is my home. These people will be my family. I wonder if any of them know what it means to me.
Chapter Twenty-four
“HEY, AM Idisturbing you?” Ren peeks into my room.
I’m in the most comfortable bed I’ve ever been in. Pillows are propped up around me to keep me from having an ounce of pain. I’m waited on day and night with the most amazing food. A large-screen TV is within perfect viewing distance. Jack comes into the room and reads to me every day. Susan visits with me for most of the morning. Kate and Ethan have colored me so many pictures, I have enough for a gallery showing.
Nothing could disturb me. Especially not Ren. Unless he’s talking about my dreams. He disturbs those all the time.
“Not at all. Come on in. Just seeing you makes me feel better.” My eyes have been longing for him.
It’s finally Sunday. Ren’s been here off and on. But today I get him for almost the entire day.
“How are you feeling?” he asks, sitting in the chair next to my bed.
“Like the most spoiled person in the entire world.”
“That’s my mom and dad. I knew you’d be pampered all week.”
“I knew I was going to be pampered, but I didn’t know I was going to bePAMPERED.”
Ren smiles his sexy half smile. “My parents are the best.”
“They are. I’m kind of in love with them.”
“They love you too. I get daily reports of how wonderful you are.”
“You do? And they’re talking about me?” I’m not being modest. I will never get used to being told I’m wonderful.
“Sure are. They don’t want you to leave, Bree the Beautiful.”
“It’s been a week. I can’t overstay my welcome. Technically, I don’t need to be on bedrest anymore.” I thought it would be a horrible experience. Instead, it’s been the most relaxing time of my life.
“Stay for today? I’ll take you home tomorrow if my dad clears you.”
“Your dad was a gastroenterologist.” Just stating the obvious.
“Shhhh.” Ren covers his lips with one finger. “Don’t burst his bubble. You’ve become his patient as far as he’s concerned. He misses working.”
“I have been well taken care of, believe me. Okay, fine. I’ll leave when he ‘releases me.’” I can’t help but use finger quotes. It’s been nice having my own private doctor. “But my car’s here. I can drive myself home anytime. Believe it or not, I can drive with a cast. It won’t be a problem. I would like to have my laptop, though, so I can get some work done from here.”
“I’m way ahead of you. It’s already here.” He picks up my laptop case, dangling it in the air.
“Thanks, Ren. You know what? You’re the bestest. By the way, how’s my Mandy?”
“I’ve been sleeping at your townhome because her meow turns into a howl when I try to leave.”
“Seriously?” I miss my little buddy.
