Page 24 of No Regrets

CHAPTER SIX

Kelly got out of the car, relieved to finally be out of Westside although nervous at what comes next.

“Let me help you in with the groceries.” Sophie gently pushed her away from the trunk.

“Thanks.” Her ribs and wrist still prevented her from lifting.

Sophie had announced she could be discharged this morning and offered to drive her home at the end of her shift. She’d even picked up some groceries, so Kelly didn’t have to think about it quite yet. The woman was an angel.

“How does it feel being out of the hospital?”

Sophie put the bag of food on the kitchen counter. “A little scary, I’m not going to lie. But also some relief. Fresh air, my own bed.”

“That’s good. You know if you need anything you can call me.”

“Thanks, Sophie. I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me. You’ve been more than just my doctor.”

“Well, that base is eighty percent men. Us girls have got to stick together!” Sophie grinned as she began unloading the bags.

Kelly glanced around the kitchen. “Shit, I left my phone in your car.”

“I’ll get it.”

“No, Sophie, it’s fine. I’m not completely useless. I’ll get it.”

Slowly she walked back out to Sophie’s car. Sure enough, her phone was on the seat.

“Kelly?”

She froze at the familiar voice. Turning, her throat went dry at the sight of him walking toward her in shorts and a t-shirt. He was sweating and looked like he’d been out on a run.

“It’s good to see you out of the hospital.” Dex smiled. The smile that usually melted her. Not this time.

He was still walking toward her, getting closer. She couldn’t do this. Pressing a palm against her chest, she shrank back, holding up her hand to stop him, shaking her head.

“Don’t,” she whispered.

He stopped a few feet from her, his face full of concern.

“Kelly? What’s going on? I just want to talk to you.”

Her heart pounded, palms sweating as panic threatened to overwhelm her. She was not prepared to have this conversation now.

“Did you get my voicemail?”

It felt like he was pushing. She shook her head and breathed deeply, forcing her heart rate to slow down.

“I’m here for you. I know what you must be going through.”

She stiffened. The words triggered something deep inside her. Anger she’d been bottling up broke through her panic.

She snapped, “You have no fucking idea, what I’m going through!”

“Kelly, I love you. Stop pushing me away.”

As quickly as her anger arrived, it disappeared. Tears welled up in her eyes. Damn, she’d wanted to hear those words for so long. She backed away from him, frustrated that she couldn’t move quicker.

“If you really love me, Dex, you’ll leave.”

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