Page 38 of When I Found You

“And then what? You’ll both go your separate ways and live happily ever after.”

“Something like that.”

“Where did you find her?” Marcy’s voice softens a fraction. “New Year’s Day.”

“What’s that have to do with this?” I’m confused by the shift in the conversation.

“The guard said he saw her on the observation deck, didn’t he?” Marcy continues. “Before you conked her on the head with the door outside your office.”

My eyes drift closed. “No. That can’t be right.”

“A lot of desperate people have taken the jump.” Marcy shrugs. “From what she told me, last year was a hell of a struggle. Desperation makes us do crazy things.”

“But she didn’t jump. I found her outside my office.” I reason. “Why come to the fifty-fourth floor?”

“Maybe you should ask her.”

“She won’t tell me.” I swallow my pride for a moment.

“You’re asking her to be honest with you, when you can’t even be honest with yourself.” My sister rests her hand on my arm and squeezes. “You feel something for her and it scares the ever-loving shit out of you.”

The sincerity of her words sends a bolt of realization straight through my heart. I shake my head, unable to think or even speak.

“I love you, Arthur. You came to my defense when no one else would.” Her soft tone makes my heart ache. “I want you to be happy, and you can’t be happy until you face the truth. One day you’re going to wake up alone and realize you let the one get away.”

Unable or unwilling to face the reality of her words, I turn away. Halfway to the door, Marcy’s voice stops me.

“Don’t be an idiot!”

Without hesitation, I stalk toward the door, grab my coat from the rack, and head out into the night. I need to think, so I retreat to the one place where I know I can clear my head. The observation deck of the Empire State Building.

Out in the cold, January night, I bundle myself deeper in my wool coat. It seems even in trying to escape facing Kate, I run directly into her arms by putting myself in her exact position.

Marcy may have a point, but I’d rather die than admit it to her.

Chapter Seventeen

Katherine

After a hot shower and a warm cup of peppermint tea, I feel almost human. Exhausted, both physically and emotionally, yes, but Rob and Marcy make sure I have everything I need. With the alcohol purged from my system, all I want is sleep.

Once I’m tucked in a warm pair of oversized pajamas and snuggled beneath the soft warm sheets, it hits me. Arthur wants me to leave. I try to protest and climb from the bed, but Marcy gently pushes me back. I’m too weak to fight.

“Rest,” Marcy instructs in her most maternal voice.

“Arthur said...” I lick my lips as the words trail off.

“Don’t you worry about him.” Marcy glances at Rob whose brow furrows in concentration. “Just sleep.”

“But he said.” I protest weakly falling into the welcoming arms of sleep.

“It’s okay. We spoke to him. It’s important you rest now. Do you need anything?” Rob sits on the edge of the bed and feels my forehead.

His touch comforts me. “No. I’m good. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Rob stands and nudges Marcy. They step off to the side, their voices low.

I close my eyes and welcome the respite. Drifting in and out of consciousness, I can still hear Rob and Marcy whispering.

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