Page 32 of Runaway Bride For The Rancher

“There’s no way I can’t worry about you. You’re still new to some things in this town, and it is my responsibility to keep you safe, no matter what.” She said.

I chuckled. “Aunt Nelly, I should be the one keeping you safe.” I laughed.

She sensed I was happy through my tone.

“Who’s making you this happy? I know someone’s there.” She said as if she was seeing us.

I looked at Ben and smiled. He didn’t see me, still. “I’ll tell you all about it when I get back. For now, I must go.” My voice was very low; I was almost whispering to keep my words from Ben.

We got to the hospital, and Ben left me outside with my call. “Join me when you’re done.” He said to me.

“Isn’t that Ben?” Aunt Nelly asked.

“Yes, that’s him. His son had an emergency, and I was in a place to help. The story is a long one. I’ll tell you all about it when I return.” I said.

“Okay, thank God you’re safe.” She said, and the call ended.

I sighed, smiled, and then kept going. I walked into the hospital and went straight to Michael’s room.

“Hey, you’re awake.” I was happy to see him awake.

He giggled and stretched his arms for a hug, and I obliged.

Fatherly jealousy crept in. “I’ve been here, and You’ven’t stretched your hands to hug me.” Ben lamented fondly.

“Is that jealousy I sense?” I asked.

Michael laughed hard. He hugged me when tightly to joke with his father. Someone would think we were a family the way we played and laughed.

“Son, are you ready to go home?” Ben asked his son.

“Yes! Yes!” he was happy to go home.

“Hold on, let me ask this nurse to take all these plugs off your body.” He stood up and dusted his butt. Then, he stepped out.

I was left with Michael, alone.

“What’s your name?” Michael asked. He was a curious kid.

“Olivia. My name is Olivia.” I replied to his question.

“Your name is beautiful.” He added.

“Thank you.” I smiled and started playing with my phone and waiting for Ben.

He soon returned with the nurse.

“I’m sorry, he can’t leave yet. The doctor needs to do one last check on him before he can leave.” The nurse said.

Michael looked defeated and sad, and Ben knew the feeling.

Ben was more worried about Michael than himself. He took the remote and turned on the TV for him. Cartoon movies played, and it calmed Michael a bit, while Ben rested, burying his head into his hands.

CHAPTER 12

Ben

There was an awkward air in the room. Words unsaid with full hearts ready to pour out emotions. No one was willing to talk.

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