Page 72 of Love & Other Disasters

“That’s not what I’m doing.” He gripped the steering wheel.

“Well I’m the one here doing the best I can, and all I get from you is an inquisition on whether or not I’m looking after her.”

“How’s her memory?”

“Not good, dude. That’s why we need to talk.”

“Have you talked to her doctor?”

“Why would I do that?”

J.P. inhaled and counted to ten.

“Hello? Anyone there?” Ethan’s voice grating his nerves.

“Yeah,” he answered. “You need to speak to her doctor to let him know about the memory loss. You know she’s not saying anything.”

“I don’t have time to take on anything else,” he whined. “If you want it done, come home and do it.”

“Are you kidding me? I’m in the middle of a mess with this company right now and can’t leave.”

“I didn’t ask for this.”

“And she did?”

“Look golden boy, you took off and left me here to deal with all of this. It’s time for you to come home and do your fair share. Got it?” The dial tone sounded through the car speakers.

J.P. parked in the lot and released the steering wheel, shaking out his numb fingers. He tried to get his calm back before stepping out of the car. He had to face the harsh reality that he needed to go home and figure out the answers to hard questions. Did she need extra care? Could he get a home health aide for her or did this require a facility? With guilt added to the mix, he worked to unclench his jaw before taking on the day.

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