Page 73 of Healing Fate
“Um, tonight?” I took a deep breath.It’s okay to put boundaries in place,I reminded myself. “Honestly, I think tomorrow would be better, if that’s okay. We’ve had a really crazy few days and a quiet night at home is just what we need tonight.”
She smiled at me and nodded as she reached over and squeezed my arm.
“Right answer. Not that that was a test or anything, because I selfishly would love to have you all over tonight. But this is your family, and you have to first and foremost do what’s best for the three of you. It won’t stop me from asking for more than I deserve, but never cower or be afraid to say no.”
I laughed, feeling like I had a new ally in my court.
“Well then, no. Not to tonight.”
“Tomorrow?”
Grinning, I nodded. “Tomorrow.”
Micah
Chapter 18
People had been waiting outside the clinic when I arrived, and a steady stream kept coming throughout the day. Mostly just cuts and scrapes, minor injuries from the mudslides.
Dad had stuck around through the morning, lending a hand. It was nice to have him back in the office, though I didn’t want him making a habit of it.
I felt like I’d barely seen Lucy because we were so busy. So much so that when she left to go pick up Vada, I didn’t even notice until the toddler escaped and launched into my arms as she ran down the hall trying to get away from her mother.
Snatching her out of thin air, I cradled her to my chest as I walked my patient to the front door.
“Vada,” Lucy warned.
“She’s okay,” I assured her taking a moment to pull her into my arms and relishing in the comfort that came from being surrounded by my two favorite ladies. “With any luck this stream of patients will slow soon.”
“No such luck. Nonna’s back in room three.”
She handed me her file.
I groaned, knowing damn well there wasn’t a thing wrong with that woman. She just wanted to pick my brain for a firsthand account of what happened out at the caves.
“I’m on it,” I told her turning and heading for the office.
“Hey. Baby,” she said, holding out her hands expectantly.
“I a big girl, Doc.”
“Yes, you are. And my wingman for this appointment.”
“Give me my kid back.”
“No way. I need her right now. Plus, she’s mine too,” I insisted.
Before she could protest further, I turned and ran down the hall bouncing Vada on my hip and making her laugh.
I straightened when we reached the room and walked in with a straight face.
“Nonna, I’m surprised to see you back in here so soon. What’s going on today?”
Her face lit up when she saw Vada.
Yeah, she wasn’t fooling me.
“Is this Lucy’s daughter?”
