Page 111 of Forever & Always

“Come with me! Let’s get you admitted and run some tests. There are six other protein markers we are looking for to make sure it will take,” Marcia replied.

Bethy stood up from the table. “Later, y’all. Shut your mouth, Mom. You’ll gather flies.”

Nancy laughed happily. “I’m just stunned. I’m so happy!”

We all grinned as she walked away with Marcia, the two women talking happily as they went. No doubt, Bethy had a thousand questions about the procedure and would have them all asked before they got to admissions.

“She’s hilarious!” Remi said. “I like her. She and I are gonna be great friends, I can tell.”

***

The next two days were a whirlwind. My parents and Remi’s parents both flew to Memphis to lend their support and they all enfolded Bill, Josie, Nancy, and Bethy into the arms of our family. I was once again reminded how damn lucky I was to be part of it. We were all blessed, and I truly believed everything happened for a reason. Remi and Rory being sick… both had reasons.

My Uncle Ben and Aunt Marin along with Lily and Lila Facetimed with Remi and me the night before the transplant to show their support. Like Remi, before her, Rory was radiated earlier in the day, and we couldn’t be with her because she was quarantined. She had cried before we left, but Remi assured her that after this last treatment she’d be feeling better, and we could be with her then.

Our family, along with Nancy, Bill, and Josie went to dinner with us before they all went back to their hotel, close to the hospital. Nancy and Josie were going up to visit Bethy in the hospital, who had, thankfully, passed the protein tests and had surgery early in the morning. Normally, adults wouldn’t be admitted to St. Jude, but this was for the treatment of a child, so for one night, she would stay there and be dismissed after she was out of recovery. She’d be sore for a few days but other than that, would have no lasting effects.

Bill was riding back with our parents, and I felt sure that Chase, my dad and Bill would end up in the hotel bar for at least a couple of beers. I was invited, but I wanted to spend the time alone with Remi.

Driving home, we were holding hands as had become our custom. I found it hard to keep from touching her during dinner, and the past few days there had been so much going on. I could see the relief on Remi’s face as she was more serene and relaxed. “Do you want to go out tonight? Maybe dancing or a movie?” I asked. There was a soft rock station playing in the car and the sun had gone down. The blue lights on the counsel were glowing and giving everything inside a soft blue hue.

“I don’t think so, baby. I didn’t think dinner would last so long, but Bill was so into you and my dad. And then recognizing both of your parents from ESPN. Oh, my God!” She laughed softly. “It was epic.”

“Yeah. He’s a character. He’s salt of the earth, though. I have a feeling he’d give you the shirt off his back, and he knows a lot about so many things! Josie said he built their house from the ground up when Bethy was seven. I mean, seriously.”

“I was worried they’d feel a bit out of place because both of our mothers are so sophisticated, but thankfully, it all went so well. They connected and they were talking amongst themselves all night.”

“No doubt, my mom was talking about when I was going through treatment and when I had my transplant. I’ll be so glad when this is behind us.”

“You know, they will probably take custody of Rory,” I said gently. I didn’t want to upset her, but I wanted to gauge her thoughts.

“I know, but it’s okay. I think they’ll let us see her often, don’t you?”

I nodded. “I think it’s best because then she won’t ever be in the system and the court will surely grant them custody immediately.”

“I agree. I’m a little sad because I wanted to be her mommy.”

“I know you did, baby. I don’t want to insult them by asking them if they need help with legal fees if they file for custody. Some farmers are well off, but you can never tell outward appearance.”

“That’s touchy, but it’s sweet of you to want to.”

“Well, I’m a sweet guy,” I teased.

“Ya think?” she flashed a smile and her fingers tightened around mine. “I love you, sweet guy. You’re also sexy and extremely gorgeous, but don’t let it go to your head.”

I was humbled by her words, and I lifted her hand to kiss it. “As long as you think so,” I said, brushing my lips against the inside of her wrist.

“I do.”

My body erupted in desire as I turned the car into her complex and then into the garage, where I shut off the engine. I got out of the car and walked around to open her door for her. “My lady,” I teased, hoping she wouldn’t see the evidence of my desire.

She giggled softly and took my hand, then I helped her out, clearly, my fears were realized.

“It’s hard to be romantic trying to play a dashing knight, with a big fat bulge in my pants.” I almost laughed out loud but kept it to a chuckle.

“Awww, honey. I think your bulge is romantic.” Her grin was devilish, and her eyes flashed.

Tugging her into my arms, I kissed her deeply, while holding her close. My body reacted even more, and there was no doubt she could feel it pressing into her stomach. I pulled my mouth from hers and then kissed her nose. “Ugh. I hate that I can’t touch you without getting hard.”

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