Grief doesn’t come with a deadline…

She’s got thirty days to clean up her mother’s neglected home or she’ll lose it. That’s all city code inspector Will Stone has given her. And it’s not nearly long enough for Suzy Bylin to sort through the lifetime of old treasures and broken keepsakes she’s inherited.

Desperate to keep the place, Suzy must steel herself against the feeling that every time she throws something away, she’s getting rid of a memory of her mom. When she can no longer do it on her own, she has nobody to turn to but Will. And if she can help him through his own family crisis, maybe together they can find more than mutual support and friendship….

“So just do it. Post the sign.”

“Suzy, I never meant for this to happen.”

Her dad had never meant to leave her. Mama had never meant to die. To leave her this mess to deal with. She knew all about people letting her down. Why should Will be any different? “I know. Just put the sign up.”

He walked to his car and returned with a bright yellow sign. Used a marker to date it and put her address on it. Then he taped it to the front door.

No entry.

He sighed as he placed the last piece of scotch tape on the corner of the sign and stepped back. “Are you going to be okay?”

“Why do you care?”

He dropped his hands to his sides. “Because you matter. You mean more to me than some job.”

“But the job came first today, didn’t it?” Suzy shook her head. “Just forget it.”

Dear Reader,

Welcome back to Lake Mildred! The grandmother that I named this fictional town after recently passed away, but before she did I was able to give her a copy of my first book and share with her how I used names in the family in my story. Her eyes lit up when I mentioned ones that were familiar to her. I’ve continued that tradition with using names of family and friends in this book, but the characters are not like their real counterparts. Well, not all of them anyways….

There are reasons for why we keep people from getting too close to us. It could be the fear of getting hurt, being rejected or left behind—to name a few. Some folks use things or rules to build barriers around themselves. Suzy and Will each grew up with parents who fell into these categories, and now they’re struggling with the reality of trying not to follow in those footsteps. Ultimately, patterns can be broken and love found.

I hope you enjoy our return to Lake Mildred. I’d love to connect with you on Facebook (facebook.com/syndipowellauthor) or Twitter (@syndipowell).

Syndi Powell

Risk of Falling

Syndi Powell

www.millsandboon.co.uk

SYNDI POWELL

started writing stories when she was young, eager to find out what happened after the happily-ever-after in her favorite books, and has made it a lifelong pursuit. She’s been reading Mills & Boon romance novels since she was in her teens and is thrilled to join the Mills & Boon team. She lives near Detroit with her husband, stepson and a cat and dog who believe they run the household. She loves to connect with readers on Twitter, @syndipowell, or on her Facebook author page, www.facebook.com/syndipowellauthor.

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This book is dedicated with much love to my husband, Jim, who encouraged me to send the first book in to Mills & Boon. You’ve believed in me, cleaned house and put up with fast food dinners while I was on deadline, and celebrated every step in this journey. There have been those who have doubted our love story, but the proof is in the partnership we’ve created. Each day we get closer to our dreams.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

EPILOGUE

Copyright

CHAPTER ONE

SUZY BYLIN PROPPED herself up on one elbow on the couch and registered the sun flooding through the top right corner of the living room window. Had she missed her alarm? She found her cell phone on the floor next to her and checked the time. Not even noon. She peered closer. It wasn’t even in the double digits yet. What had woken her up?

The pounding on the front door continued.

Oh yes, that was it. She groaned as she rose to her feet, grabbed her jacket that she’d thrown over the recliner after work, pulled it on like a robe and stumbled to the front door. “All right, I’m coming.”

With another pull on the jacket, she took a deep breath and peeked through the peephole. Ding dong. Who was the hottie on her front porch? Tall. Dark blond. Definitely handsome. Maybe she was still dreaming? She opened the door an inch or two and stepped into the crack in case he was a hot psycho. Well, a professional psycho if the gray suit and tie were any indication. “Yes?”

“Ms. Bylin?”

Suzy shook her head and felt the curls hit the sides of her face. Great. She must look a fright. She reached up a hand to calm the frenzied chaos atop her head. Maybe she should have brushed her hair before answering the door, especially if she was going to be confronted by such attractive strangers. And yet, there was something familiar about his eyes. “Did you go to Lake Mildred High? Football team, right?”

“Why? Were you a cheerleader?”

She had been, but that was maybe five years after he had graduated. “Are you looking for my mom?”

He frowned and glanced down at his notebook. “No, she’s dead.” He looked up and his cheeks colored. “I mean, I attended her funeral. I saw you there...I mean, you must be her daughter. I’m sorry for your loss.”

With effort, Suzy gave him a smile. She longed to assure him it was okay. But losing her mom wasn’t okay. Never would be. It had been six months, and she still woke up expecting her mom to be there. Still reached for her phone when on break at work to call and check on her. A half year had passed, but the hole in her chest hadn’t healed. “Is there something I can help you with?”

He seemed to take a moment, as if summoning his strength. The steel in his spine straightened him several inches. “I’m sure you’re aware of the problems your mom had with the town.”

Um, no. This was the first she’d heard. But then Mama had liked to keep her secrets even after Suzy had moved in to care for her in the last year. She frowned. “Problems such as...”

“Such as the neighbors’ complaints about all the clutter and trash on her property.” He marked something off on his notebook. “Or the notices from the town that she needed to get the yard cleaned up.” Another check. “And if she couldn’t get it cleaned up, the town would clean it for her at her expense or evict her.”

Suzy paled at each accusation. Okay. So her mom hadn’t been Mrs. Clean. Or Mrs. Organized. But to threaten to take her home? Things couldn’t be that bad.

Could they?

She grimaced and tried to recall his name. Rivers? Meadow? “Listen, Mr.—”

“Stone. Will Stone.”

“Oh, that’s right.” She clutched her hands into fists at her sides. “My mom was sick for the last few years. She couldn’t get out of bed for most of those, much less go outside and clean up her yard. And she never told me about any notices.”

“My file says she received six.”

Six? Crud. What had you been thinking, Mama? She glanced behind her and knew if Mr. Stone could see inside the living room and to the rest of the house, he’d have more of a problem than with the backyard. “Okay. Six notices. Well, I’m in charge now. And it will get taken care of.”

“Miss Bylin, I knew of your mom’s illness, so I didn’t pursue any legal action. But time, just like my patience, has grown thin.” He removed a yellow letter from his pocket. “You have two weeks. Or the town will bring its own crew to clear everything out. And we don’t come cheap.”

She nodded and accepted the letter. Opened it. Read it. Then clutched it in her hand, wrinkling the page. “Understood.” She waited for him to leave, but he continued to stare down at her with those ice blue eyes of his. She glanced at her painted hot pink toenails. “Was there something else?”

“Are those scarecrows on your pants?”

Suzy grinned and pulled on the leg of the cotton scrubs she’d worn to work last night. “Aren’t they a hoot? My seniors love them.”

“I’m sure they do.” He almost smiled, and it gave Suzy a glimpse of how more good looking he could be. The frown quickly returned, shattering her hopes. “I’m going to assess the backyard before I leave.”

“Sure thing. Good night.”

He looked at her as if she’d sprung a second head. “It’s daytime. Are you always this flighty?”

She shut the door behind her and locked the bottom lock. Flighty? Okay, so maybe her life was upside down with working nights, but she was capable. Competent. And more than able to tidy up a backyard.

She yawned as she dropped the letter next to her car keys on the coffee table and returned to the couch to settle under the blankets. She’d deal with the notice later. But first, sleep.

Maybe even a dream about hot strangers showing up on her doorstep.

* * *

WILL FROWNED AT the closed door. Miss Bylin certainly resembled her mother in personality, but not looks. While Mrs. Bylin had been large and imposing, her daughter was tiny. Petite. Reddish blonde curls framing her face. And brown eyes that held laughter.

But he had a feeling that the sprite could sweet-talk him into giving her more time, exactly like her mother had on numerous occasions.

He walked around the house to the backyard and unlatched the wooden gate and went through. Nothing had changed, except he counted more trash bags that hadn’t made it roadside for collection. Instead they leaned against the closest wall of the garage. He couldn’t understand why such a simple thing was so hard to do. It wasn’t difficult to remember trash day if you had a system. A way of remembering. He made a note in his book and moved on.

The abandoned car still took up space toward the back. The tires had long ago gone flat, and Will doubted that the engine would start. Two clothes line poles listed to the side. A rusted swing set missing the swings. A slide that a younger Miss Bylin may have played on, but now laid on its side, abandoned.

Elbow grease and some muscles. That’s what Miss Bylin needed. That and a plan to conquer the yard methodically. Inch by inch. And he could scratch this eyesore off his to-do list.

Finally.

Maybe then he could prove to the town council they needed him. And his job would be off their chopping block.

He made some more notes in his book. Took a few pictures on his cell phone. Until it started ringing.”Will Stone.”

“Will, it’s Toby at the bank.”

Why would his mom’s boss be phoning him? “Is my mom okay?”

“That’s why I’m calling. She passed out and fell. We can’t wake her.” He paused on the other end. “I’ve called an ambulance, and they’re on their way. But you might want to get here too.”

Oh, Ma. What is going on? “I’m on my way.”

Any other business could wait. This was his mom.

* * *

WILL QUICKLY PARKED his pickup truck, turned off the engine and removed his keys. Got out and slammed the door shut.

Winced at the ambulance with its lights flashing, waiting near the entrance.

He ran across the lot to the red brick building and pushed open the front door. Inside the lobby, the branch manager, Toby, waited for him. “She’s back here in the break room.”

Will followed him as the manager ushered him to where he found his mom sitting in a chair and hooked up to an oxygen tank. She looked up at him and removed the mask.

“I’m fine. Tell them.”

He noted her pale appearance. The fine sheen of moisture at her hairline. The pain as well as the panic in her eyes. He knelt down beside her and put his hand on her knee. “What happened?”

His mom shrugged and frowned as the paramedic replaced the mask on her face. Will turned to the paramedic for answers. “Mrs. Stone passed out and was unresponsive when we arrived. Her pulse and breathing are abnormal. She’s been given oxygen and chewable aspirin. We’d like to take her to the hospital for treatment.”

They thought she’d had a heart attack? He tried to remember what the doctor had said at his mom’s last visit, but her heart hadn’t been discussed. They’d discussed her cholesterol and how she could lose a few pounds. But nothing about her heart having problems. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to get her checked out. Will nodded. “Good.”

Ma removed her oxygen mask. “Not good. I’m not going.”

“Oh, yes you are.” Will turned to the paramedic. “I’ll follow you guys to the hospital.”

“I told you I’m not going. I got a little dizzy. That’s all.”

Will closed his eyes and looked to the heavens. “Ma.”

“I’m fine, honey.” She tried to stand, but was urged back down by the paramedic. She swatted at her hands. “I’m not an invalid.”

“Not saying you are. But you need to go to the hospital.” Will stood and removed the cell phone from his suit pocket. He needed reinforcements. “I’ll call Tori and ask her to meet us there.”

“Don’t you dare.”

Toby stepped forward and held up his hands in surrender. “I already did, Eva. Called her right after I called Will.”

Thank goodness. Will appreciated the manager’s quick thinking even if his mom groaned and sat back down in the chair as if defeated.

The paramedic put the oxygen mask back over Eva’s mouth and spoke into the walkie talkie attached to her shoulder. “Bring in the gurney, Pete.”

Ma furiously shook her head while Will nodded. “You will get on that gurney if I have to strap you on it myself.”

“And if he doesn’t, I will.” His sister Tori pushed forward and knelt by their mom’s feet. He noticed that she’d lightened her dark blond hair to a platinum blond like his. Uh oh. Not a good sign. He’d deal with that later.

Tori patted their mom’s knee. “We’ll make sure you get the best care.” She looked up at her brother for confirmation. “Right, Will?”

Of course, they would. He nodded. “The very best.”

The snap and squeak of the gurney’s wheels drew their attention towards the door. They stepped out of the break room to let the paramedics do their jobs. Tori reached out her hand, and Will clasped it in his. They’d seen a similar scene with their father when they’d been just teens. They might be older now, but they weren’t ready to lose their mother too. Not yet.

The paramedics wheeled the gurney out of the break room and down the hall through the bank lobby. Co-workers stopped conversations and turned to watch. Many stepped forward to check on Eva. She held up her hands as if parting the Red Sea. “I’m fine. They’re overreacting. I won’t be gone long. You’ll see.”

The paramedics pushed the gurney as if it was a barge carrying a queen in front of her subjects. She waved and offered assurances she was okay.

Will hoped she was right. Because by the looks of things, it didn’t seem that way. One step at a time, he reminded himself. They only needed to find out what they were dealing with first.

Once the ambulance was off to the hospital, Will turned to Tori. “Why don’t we take my truck over? I’ll bring you back later for your car.”

With their mom gone, Tori nodded but released the tears he knew she’d been holding back the entire time, just like their father had taught them. Will put his arm around her and led her to his car. Helped her in. Found the box of tissues in the middle console and offered it to her. He ran around to the other side and started the truck before he’d shut his door and fastened his seat belt.

He turned the radio volume low and reached out to hold Tori’s hand. She wiped her eyes with the tissue in her other hand. “It’s spooky, you know? Just like we lost dad.”

Will kept his eyes on the road, but squeezed her hand. “Mom’s tough.”

“Dad was Marine tough.”

Will winced. “With a bad heart.”

“You think that’s what this is? A heart attack?” Tori sniffled and wiped her eyes. “I didn’t have enough time to ask Toby for details. I was volunteering at the boys’ school when the call came.”

“I don’t know what this is. Honest.” He hoped it was something simple. Maybe she’d forgotten to eat breakfast this morning, and her blood sugar was low. Maybe she had an inner ear infection that had thrown off her balance. Those were scenarios he could handle more than a heart attack. He took the turn off to the highway, accelerated and glanced behind him as he merged into traffic. “But I can guarantee we will get the best care.”

“Did you call Carol or Joan?”

Their sisters. Who they hadn’t heard from since Christmas, nine months ago. Will looked over at Tori. “Not until we have more answers. You know how they are.”

“Think they’ll come up to visit?”

He doubted it. After their dad died almost twenty years before, the family had splintered. His older sisters had gotten married and moved out of Lake Mildred as soon as they could, as if the small northern Michigan town couldn’t keep them prisoner anymore. They had both moved out of state, Carol to Arizona, Joan to Georgia. It had been mom, Tori and him for all those years since. With the occasional phone call and even more rare visit. “I don’t know.”

“Mom’s not going to want to slow down.” She glanced at him. “She’s still working. Still involved in the garden club. The library literacy club. She watches the boys for me after school at least twice a week.” Fresh tears started at the thought. “What if this is my fault?”

“Before we go assigning blame, let’s find out what we’re dealing with. But no.” He squeezed her hand again. “None of this is your fault.”

He slowed down for their exit and breathed a sigh of relief when the hospital came into view. The sooner the doctors could examine his mom, the sooner they could find out what was wrong.

Then fix it.

CHAPTER TWO

SUZY’S ALARM SOUNDED from her cell phone. She sat up. Stretched. Rubbed her eyes. It had taken a while, but she’d finally fallen asleep. Good thing too. She had to work tonight at the nursing home.

She turned off the alarm and stood. Her eyes fell on the yellow notice. Oh, right. She’d forgotten about that. Two weeks to clean up the backyard shouldn’t be hard, right? Just a matter of getting the trash bags to the curb on pick up day. Straighten a few things. No big deal.

After she made her afternoon cup of coffee and added plenty of cream and sugar, she pried open the sliding door that led to the deck. Stood and observed the yard. Tried to see what Mr. Stone had seen.

Yep, those trash bags were waiting by the garage. Had to be at least a dozen of them. But she worked on collection days, and by the time she got home, she wanted to sleep. Not haul trash to the curb. And that’s if they hadn’t already picked up her neighborhood. She could transport them herself to the dump, and probably would have to, but that meant more time taken out of her already busy, upside down schedule. Four twelve hour days left only three to catch up on everything, and that was if she was lucky enough to have those three days off instead of getting called in at the last minute to cover a shift at the nursing home. Not that she minded. It was easier to keep busy. Less time to think. To remember. To grieve.

Then there was the Camaro that had been parked in the backyard since Suzy had been eight or nine. Shortly before her dad had left her mother and her, he’d driven it there to work on the engine. But he never had. And so it sat, almost twenty years later. She wondered if she could even find the keys for it. Maybe in the glass bowl Mama had kept on her dresser.

She took her coffee with her and approached the rusted heap. It had been her dad’s pride and joy once. The classic car he had wanted to restore. But he couldn’t fix it any more than he could deal with the people in his life. Instead, he’d left it behind for them to deal with along with everything else.

She’d asked Mama why he hadn’t stayed, but answers had been rare. He’d never called, never sent a gift for her birthday or Christmas. As if once he’d gone, they no longer existed to him. Part of her wondered how much of his absence was possibly due to her mom keeping him away. Maybe he’d wanted to see her, but Mama wouldn’t let him. Or maybe he just hadn’t cared. Suzy had tried finding him when Mama got sick, but it was as if he’d disappeared completely that spring morning when he’d said he was leaving for work and never came home.

She shielded her eyes and peered into the passenger side window. Noticed evidence that some animal had made it a temporary home. Shredded paper nested about a foot wide. And, if the soft mewls were any indication, the resident had left her babies behind.

Suzy set the coffee mug on the roof of the car and pulled on the handle to open the door. With much effort, it wrenched free. She popped her head in and wrinkled her nose at the stench. She carefully kneeled on the passenger seat and bent forward. Between the driver’s seat and the control pedals, three gray and white kittens huddled together. They couldn’t have been more than a few days, maybe a week, old. Their eyes still closed. So tiny. So helpless.

Suzy glanced around the car for something to use to carry them inside. Nothing. Despite her mom’s lackluster housecleaning skills, the interior of the car was empty. She’d have to go find something. “Okay, guys. I’ll be right back. Don’t go anywhere.”

She unfolded herself from the car, slammed the door shut and grabbed her coffee mug from the car roof. She ran to the house and once inside, placed the mug in the sink before searching through piles of stuff until she found an old wicker Easter basket that still had plastic green grass inside. Figuring that the grass would act as a cushion, she placed a clean tea towel over the grass and sprinted back to the car.

The driver’s side door took less effort to open. Probably because she’d found her mom sitting in the seat more than once over the years. She stooped down and carefully removed each kitten and placed it in the basket. Took her precious cargo into the house. Found a baby bottle in one of the boxes. Washed the bottle since dust coated the surface and then filled it with milk. On the couch she took turns feeding each kitten and stroking its head.

As she did so, she wondered what had happened to their mom. They were orphans, abandoned just like her, and that connection made her heart break for them. “It’s okay. I’ll make sure that someone takes care of you. Promise.”

They looked little more than skeletons covered in fur, and they would need more care than she could give. Propping the bottle on a pillow so that the last kitten could still eat, she dialed her best girlfriend Presley’s number at the animal rescue. “Hey, Pres. I’ve got some little ones for you. Do you have room?”

A big sigh on the other end. “I’ll find room. What have you got?”

“The cutest little kittens in the world.” Suzy looked them over again and smiled as they rolled around each other trying to find a comfortable sleeping position. Almost as if they didn’t want to be separated from each other for very long. “Well, they will be once they get some meat on their bones. And they probably need shots. I found them abandoned in Daddy’s car.”

“Any sign of the mother?”

Suzy shook her head and petted the two kittens who had fallen asleep after eating their fill. “Orphans. Just like me.”

Funny how that word still hurt after six months. She kept the smile on her face. As if her best friend could see her through the phone. “I can bring them in before I go to work tonight.”

“Yeah, okay.” The line stayed silent. “Suze, are you all right?”

How many times had she been asked that question since her mom died? She gave the standard answer. Better that than admit she missed Mama so much it ached. “Perfect. Wait till you see these cuties.” She smiled brighter. “They’re going to break your heart.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of.”

Once the last kitten had eaten and fallen asleep, Suzy took her shower then got ready for work. She had an hour or so before she needed to be at the nursing home, so she could stay at the animal rescue and help out with the animals. She knew Presley was swamped with strays, which meant less time to walk them and care for them. Suzy could volunteer to do that for her friend.

She nodded. That’s what she’d do. And she’d deal with the backyard tomorrow.

* * *

SEVEN HOURS. WILL paced the waiting room of the hospital. They’d been there over seven hours with no word. No diagnosis. No solution.

Tori sat on a plastic chair, her head bent over a romance novel, but he could see that she’d been on the same page for the last thirty minutes. She was just as worried as he was.

“Where’s the doctor? It shouldn’t be taking this long.” He stood in front of Tori and crossed his arms over his chest. Waiting for her to look at him.

Instead, she kept her eyes on the page. “Stop watching the clock and pacing, Will. It’ll go faster.” She looked up and patted the empty chair beside hers. “Now sit. Read a magazine. Or go get us some snacks. We haven’t had lunch, and I’m starving.”

He shook his head. “If I’m not here when the doctor comes in....”

“Then I’ll talk to him. Not the end of the world.” She put her bookmark in the book and laid it beside her. “Or how about I’ll go get us some food. I need something.” She stood and grabbed her purse from the floor. “Snickers bar? Mountain Dew? Doritos?”

“Fine. Whatever”

He took out his wallet and handed her a twenty which she waved away. “I’ve got this. And I’ll call my neighbor Teresa and ask if she can pick up the boys from school.” She checked her watch. “Hopefully I’ll catch her before she leaves to get her son Noah.”

She flipped her phone open and dialed as she walked out of the waiting room. Will watched her leave then took a seat in her abandoned chair. He noticed her romance novel and picked it up. Flipped through it. Read a particularly racy scene and raised his eyebrows. What was going on with his sister? First the dyed hair. Now the sexy book? Maybe she was finally over her ex.

About time.

When Tori returned with a bulging plastic bag from the gift shop, he held up the book to her. “You’re reading this?”

She nodded and took the seat next to him, before handing him a wrapped sandwich and pop can. “Teresa recommended it. It’s actually quite good.”

He noted the bookmark was more than halfway through the book. “Obviously.” He unwrapped the sandwich and toasted her with it. “Thanks.”

“Anything for you.” She popped the tab on her drink then took a sip. “Still no word?”

Will swallowed his bite and shook his head. “It’s gotta be soon, right? I mean how long can they make us wait for answers?”

“Teresa said she’d keep the boys at her house as long as I need her to.” She took a deep breath. “She’s been a good friend. Especially since the divorce.”

Will put one arm around her. “The hits keep coming, huh?”

She swiped her eyes with the back of her hand. “You don’t know how hard it is being a single mom. There’s no one around to give me a hand. To answer the nonstop questions. Or deal with the increasing emotions. To tell them no. And then there’s the hormones.” She shuddered as if a cold finger had run up her spine.

He bumped her shoulder. “Whenever you need me, just call.”

“I know. But I’ve got to do this on my own. I can’t depend on you all the time.” She straightened in her seat. “Stones know how to get the job done.”

She unwrapped her sandwich and took a bite. He did the same, and they sat in silence for a while. The only sound other families chatting while they waited for news and a talk show on the television in the corner.

After eating their late lunch, Will gathered the trash and threw it out in the receptacle. Tori returned to her book, so he checked his email on his phone and waited for word on his mom.

A doctor in blue-green scrubs entered the room. “Stone family?”

About time. Will and Tori stood and held hands as the doctor approached. “Why don’t we step into the privacy room?”

Uh oh. That couldn’t be good.

They followed her into the room. Tori sat on the bench while he remained standing. He could take whatever news it was. He could be strong. For his mom. For Tori.

For himself.

“I’m Dr. Westphal, and I’ve been supervising your mom’s care since they brought her in.” She consulted her tablet. “She arrived in the emergency room exhibiting pain and a possible bone fracture.”

Will frowned. “She broke something? It’s not her heart? I mean, we assumed...”

Dr. Westphal looked up at him. “The more persistent problem right now is her fractured hip. We need to get her into surgery.”

“You bet. I’ll sign whatever form you need me to.”

“Mrs. Stone has already given her consent and will go into surgery to repair the fracture shortly after you see her.” Dr. Westphal sighed. “But the problem is after surgery.” She looked up from the tablet at first Will, then Tori. “She’ll be in the hospital for a few days but then will need long term care. Physical therapy. Possibly a hip replacement. And when she’s stronger, chemotherapy.”

Will lost the strength of his legs and sat next to Tori. No. Not this.”Cancer then.”

“We’re still running tests, but it appears the cancer is attacking her bones. Making them brittle and fragile.” Dr. Westphal took a seat in front of them. “A simple fall should not break bones, even in a woman your mother’s age.”

Tori started to cry softly beside him. He held her hand and squeezed. Their mom had cancer.

He closed his eyes to keep the panic from invading his mind. When he opened them, he gave a short nod. “How bad is it? I mean, how long...”

The doctor shrugged. “We won’t know any answers until more tests can be run. Let’s focus on repairing the hip first.”

Will nodded again. “We can see her?”

The doctor stood. “I’ll take you to her.”

As they followed the doctor down the white, sterile hallway, Will turned to Tori. “No tears in front of mom. She needs our strength right now.”

Tori nodded and wiped her face. “I know the drill.”

Dr. Westphal led them through a maze of hospital beds and curtained off areas. Eventually she pushed a curtain aside to reveal his mom hooked up to monitors and an IV. She looked tiny in the huge bed. Fragile. Lost. She opened her eyes and gave them a smile. “My babies.”

The doctor left them, pulling the curtain closed behind her. Will moved to his mom’s side and took her hand. His emotions were pressing on him, but he’d deal with them later. “Are you in any pain?”

Eva shook her head and pointed to the IV. “They’re giving me the good stuff.” She pointed to the end of her bed. “Let’s talk.”

“They need to take you to surgery.”

“They will.” She pointed at the bed again. “I want to spend time with you before they take me away. Now sit.”

Tori took a seat on one side of her. Afraid to jostle his mom and cause pain, Will stood beside her and held her hand. Besides, he could control himself standing. Be a good soldier like his dad and the Marines had trained him. He tensed his muscles, ready for whatever followed.

His mom’s expression softened. “The doctor told you, didn’t she? She asked if she could, and I said yes, but I’d hoped—”

“We’ll fight this, Mom. I’ll get the best doctors. Specialists.” Emotion threatened to close his throat, and he swallowed it right away. “Stones don’t go down without a fight.”

His mom nodded. “Or they die trying.”

Tori started crying, holding their mom’s hand to her cheek. Will kept swallowing, unable to say anything. Unable to offer anything. Finally, his mom gave a soft smile. “Sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.”

Will cleared his throat. “It’s okay, Mom.”

A nurse pulled the curtain open. “They’re ready for you, Mrs. Stone.” She turned to Will. “I can escort you to the surgical waiting room.”

Tori leaned over and kissed her mom on the cheek. “Lovey.”

“Lovey.”

Will kissed his mom and rested his forehead on hers. “Lovey.”

“Lovey.” She patted his cheek. “Everything is going to be fine. I promise.”

Fine. Right.

A team of nurses surrounded his mom’s hospital bed then wheeled her away. The first nurse led them to a different waiting room than before, but it looked much the same. “Surgery should be about two hours. Dr. Westphal will keep you updated.”

Will sighed as he took a seat near the window. Tori fished in her purse for her cell phone. “I’ll just call Teresa and tell her I’ll be late.”

She stepped away, leaving Will with his thoughts.

His mom had cancer. Life wasn’t ever going to be the same after today. No matter what they needed to do to fight this, they’d do it. If she needed chemo, bone marrow transplant, whatever, she would get it. She had to get better because their family didn’t work without her in it. She was their center.

He stood and resumed his pacing. How was he supposed to move on from this? Would they survive? He glanced at his phone. He should call Joanie and Carol. They had a right to know even if they didn’t choose to be involved. He started to dial the first number.

* * *

SUZY PARKED HER bright yellow VW bug in front of the animal rescue shelter. She must have been a good girl that day to get such a prime parking spot. Despite her intention to arrive early, she would only have enough time to drop off the kittens and then hurry to work before she was late. Again.

She hooked her arm through the Easter basket and carried it with her to the front door. The receptionist Thoramae spotted her and rushed to open the door for her. “Hey, Suzy. More critters for us?” The older woman with tight permed curls peeked into the basket and smiled. “Aren’t they the cutest fur balls?”

“They just need some TLC.” Suzy squeezed past Thoramae. “Is Presley in her office?”

“You bet. Can’t get her to leave.” Thoramae returned to her spot behind the reception desk. “She’s been asking for you.”

“Thanks.” Suzy looked down into her basket. Two of the kittens slept while the third licked its paw. “You’re gonna love Pres. She’ll help you get big and strong.”

Presley sat at her desk and looked up when Suzy walked in. “I’d ask if you always talk to yourself, but I know the answer to that one.” She came around the desk and gave Suzy a hug. “How are you doing today?”

“Fine.” Suzy avoided her friend’s eyes and placed the basket on Presley’s desk. “Tell me you can help these guys.” Presley picked one of the kittens and held him up. “He’s awfully scrawny. Good thing you found them when you did. Temperatures are supposed to fall over the weekend. They could have frozen out there.” She held the kitten close to her chest and stroked his head. “With a little time and a lot of food, they should be fine.”

Suzy wilted with relief into a chair. “Good. I can’t deal with any more loss.”

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Presley put down the kitten and turned her attention to Suzy. Probed her with the same intensity she usually reserved for her animal patients. “We haven’t hung out lately. Or talked much.”

“Well, you know my work schedule. Midnight shifts don’t help a social life.” Suzy gave a forced chuckle. “I’m fine. Tired, maybe. They had me working six days last week.” Her friend seemed to accept her words. At least for now. Suzy leaned in closer to Presley. “But I did meet a guy.”

Presley clapped her hands and perched on the edge of her desk. “When? How? Details, details.”

“Actually he showed up at my front door.” Suzy let that sink in then laughed at Presley’s expression. “He’s some kind of code enforcement inspector who knew Mama. Told her she had to clean up the backyard.”

“I can figure out how well that went over.”

Suzy rolled her eyes. “No kidding. He’s given me two weeks to clean it up. Or else.”

“Or else what?”

Suzy shrugged. “They charge me to get someone else to clean it up, I guess.” She thought about the mess. “It might be easier if they did. It’s not like they’d take the house from me. Right?” She wished she sounded more confident.

“You can’t afford that, Suze. Besides, I can help you.” Her friend crossed her legs at her ankles. For a moment, Suzy envied her long legs since she’d been born with short ones. Pres leaned back on her desk. “Anytime. Just ask.”

“But your job here...”

Presley laughed and shook her head. “Despite what Thoramae says, I do take time off from here occasionally.” She bit her lip and watched Suzy. “I notice you talked about what he did. But not what he looks like. That good, huh?”

Suzy fanned herself. “Hotter than hot. In an uptight, strait-laced kind of way.” She thought back to Mr. Stone. “He kind of reminds me of that guy who plays James Bond now.”

Presley smiled wider. “Yummy.”

“No kidding.” Suzy stood and hitched her purse higher on her shoulder. She glanced at the clock behind Presley’s desk and sighed. “I’ve got to get going, but...” She glanced at the kittens one more time. “You’ll keep me updated?”

“Absolutely.” Presley hugged her again. “And I mean it. I’ll help you. You don’t have to do this on your own, Suze.”

“I know.” That’s what she said, but she didn’t quite believe it.

CHAPTER THREE

THIS WAS THE longest two hours in history. Had to be. Maybe time had stopped. Will glanced at his watch then held it up to his ear. Nope. Watch still ticked. Hands still moved. Seconds. Minutes. Hours.

He slammed the magazine he’d been reading onto the plastic chair next to him and stretched. Moments later, he walked to the wall of windows that overlooked the parking lot and put his palm against the cool glass. He watched as a woman hurried into the hospital. Did she have a loved one here fighting for their life too? Maybe her daughter had had a baby. Or a friend needed a ride home from work.

He shook his head, scattering the thoughts like wind blowing dried leaves. If he didn’t get out of here soon, he’d be writing poetry about hospital visiting hours or penning that mystery novel he’d always dreamed of. He turned from the window and found that Tori had nodded off, her head back, mouth open. He took his cell phone from his pocket and snapped a quick picture. She’d kill him if he posted it on Facebook, but it might be fun.

Tori stirred, then squeezed her eyes shut before opening them and finding him watching her. She rubbed her face. “Did I miss the surgeon?”

He shook his head. “How late did you tell Teresa you’d be? It’s close to seven already.”

“It’s okay. She said she’d feed the hooligans dinner.” She took out her cell phone and started texting. “But I’ll let them know I’m still here.”

“I can’t believe you got them cell phones. They’re only fourteen.” He took the seat next to her.

Tori finished typing and frowned at him. “Fourteen and involved in so many activities that I feel more like a chauffeur than a mom some days. They need to be able to get a hold of me at all times.”

“We didn’t have phones when we were their age.”

“Well, Dad wasn’t exactly generous, was he? No, he lived by rules of shoulds and should nots.” Tori stopped texting. “Don’t get me wrong. I loved him, but I don’t think he had any clue about how kids should be raised.”

“He was a Marine captain. He had to know how to lead his men into battle not raise kids.” Will couldn’t let it go. “So are you overcompensating for Dad’s strictness or Shawn’s absence?”

Tori’s head snapped up, her eyes blazing. She’d be breathing fire if she could. “Don’t tell me how to bring up my sons because that’s an argument you won’t win. You’re as clueless as Dad was.”

He bit back his retort mostly because she was right. He didn’t have the first clue about raising kids. He marveled at how well Tori was doing on her own.

They sat in silence for a while. Then Will reached over and grabbed his sister’s hand. “You’re a good mom.”

Tori squeezed his hand. “Thanks.” She rested her head on his shoulder. “Maybe I do indulge them more than I would if Shawn was still around, but they’re missing out on so much.”

“Shawn’s the one missing out.” He kissed the top of her head.

She sighed then got to her feet. “I’m going to get some coffee or something. You want anything?”

“Coffee sounds perfect.” He picked up the magazine he’d discarded. “Think I’ll take this quiz and see what kind of girlfriend I am.”

Tori rolled her eyes, but laughed. He watched her leave then started flipping pages. Where was that quiz?

* * *

SUZY PULLED INTO the parking lot of the nursing home and finished singing with an edgy rock song before grabbing her work bag and heading inside. Still humming, she opened the door for a couple leaving. As she passed the front desk, her shift supervisor Rita glanced from Suzy to the clock on the wall. Five minutes early. Whew.

Suzy walked to the employee lounge and put her work bag in the locker. The frozen dinner and bottle of water she’d dug out first, she put in the staff fridge. She’d chosen her flashiest scrubs for today: bright purple top with neon yellow bottoms and yellow crocs. The seniors seemed to like the bright colors. Those who could still see anyway.

She checked the schedule posted on the bulletin board and flexed her shoulders. She enjoyed the seven at night to seven in the morning shift. More patients, less families. Too much family only reminded her of what she didn’t have.

She bumped the door with her hip and entered the hallway, slinging her stethoscope around her shoulders. She checked in at the west nurse’s station where she found Carly signing off on her tablet. “How’s it been today?”

Carly shrugged. “Fine. A bit too quiet, so you might find yourself with some night crawlers later.”

Suzy nodded. It seemed that her seniors loved to save their drama for her shift. “They do keep life interesting.” She turned on her tablet and brought up the charts. “Any new residents?”

“Not today. But you might want to keep an eye on Mrs. Henderson in sixteen.” Carly leaned in closer. “Her daughter was here this afternoon. The doctors aren’t optimistic about the new treatment, and she’s taken it pretty hard.”

Mrs. Henderson had once been crowned Miss Pickle at the Pickle Festival back in the 1920s. Or so she said. She also claimed that she’d been screen tested for the role of Scarlett O’Hara but lost out at the last minute to Vivien Leigh. With an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Suzy was never sure which stories were true and which ones weren’t, but they were all entertaining. “I’ll be sure to make her my first stop. Thanks, Carly.”

The other nurse patted Suzy on the shoulder before leaving the station. “Good luck. You’re going to need it.”

Suzy read over the notes from the day then checked the monitors. Dinner had already been served, and televisions in the rooms as well as in the community room blared with strains of the music from “Jeopardy”. It was also Tuesday and that meant Yatzhee night in the dining room. She’d better make her rounds then check back to make sure no fights had broken out. Those seniors were serious about their games.

Mrs. Henderson’s room was first. She poked her head in and found the older woman sitting in a chair looking out her window at the garden. Leaves swirled as the wind blew and more fell onto the lawn. Suzy sighed. “Pretty time of year, isn’t it? I love it when the leaves shed their green summer wardrobe and put on their reds and golds and oranges.”

Mrs. Henderson didn’t say anything. Suzy went farther into the room and went to stand next to her chair. Suzy put a hand on her shoulder. “Don’t you wish you could paint this scene?”

“Did I ever tell you about the time Vivien Leigh stole my part in a movie?” The older woman looked up at Suzy, but her eyes didn’t focus.

Suzy crouched next to the chair. “No, I don’t think you did. Why don’t you tell me?”

* * *

BY THE TIME Dr. Westphal entered the waiting room, Will’s stomach threatened to eat itself if he didn’t find something else first. But thoughts of food fled when their name was called.

Tori and Will followed the doctor into a private room off the hallway. A surgeon in clean scrubs joined them. “The surgery was more complicated than expected. Although your mother is in recovery now.”

Will nodded. “The fracture?”

“It’s been repaired. But the cancer appears more advanced than we first thought.”

Tori grabbed his hand. “What does that mean? She’s going to die?”

The doctor looked at them both over her eyeglasses. “It means things get complicated. The fracture needs to heal before Dr. Lewis can discuss treatment options, but it also means your mother needs to stay in long term care to prevent any more bones from breaking.”

Long term care. That meant money, and lots of it. Will’s mind started calculating his mom’s insurance coverage, amount of savings, and saw a lot of dollars flying out of both. “So a nursing home.”

“Lake Mildred’s is not only close, but one of the best.” She handed him a few pamphlets, the one advertising their hometown’s option on top. “I’d recommend that you check it out sooner rather than later. We need to have a plan in place before she’s released from here.”

Tori covered her face. He put a hand on her shoulder, hoping to...What? Convince her things weren’t bad? Because it sounded like they were moving from bad to worse. Still he gave her a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder. “Are we talking days? A week?”

“Like I said, the sooner, the better.” She opened the door. “Would you like to see your mother?”

He nodded and helped his sister to her feet. In the recovery room, he stood at the bedside of his mom who seemed to still be sleeping. Tori stood on the other side of the bed, holding their mom’s hand. Will looked across at his sister. “What are we going to do, Tori?”

She looked up at him, the surprise written on her face. “I thought you would know.”

“I don’t have a clue.” He shook his head and closed his eyes. He’d been a teen when his father died. His only involvement had been visiting the hospital with his sisters, hoping and praying that he would get better. His mom had made the decisions. Had faced the tough choices. Now she needed him to do the same for her.

And he didn’t know what to do.

He opened his eyes and saw Tori staring at him. “Are you okay, Will?”

No. Not at all.

But he nodded, knowing that’s what she needed. “We’ll figure things out.”

Their mom stirred, opened her eyes, but then faded into unconsciousness again. “She’s not going to want to go to a nursing home. And with my job and yours, plus the kids...”

“We do have two more sisters.”

He wanted to laugh. They’d be no help, but he’d give them a chance to step up. To see if they wanted to be involved or, as he suspected, would leave things up to him and Tori. “They still haven’t returned my first two calls, but we’ll see.”

“I’ve heard a lot of good things about the seniors’ home in Lake Mildred.” Tori stroked their mom’s arm, but her eyes stayed on him. “It would be close to both of us so we could visit often.”

He nodded. It would be the easy choice, but was it the right one? He’d always been good at fixing things. But to make decisions for his mom? What if he made the wrong one? In the Marines, he’d learned how to succeed, how to repair a situation. But he felt out of depth here for the first time. He needed to do some recon, he realized, to make the informed choice. “If I can set up a visit tomorrow, would you be able to go?”

She looked down at their mom. Reached out to move a curl that had fallen on her face. “I’ll make sure I can.”

At least he wouldn’t be alone. At least he had Tori.

* * *

IN THEORY, SUZY finished her shift at seven a.m.

By nine-thirty that morning, she admitted things weren’t going according to plan. She still had paperwork to complete after the ambulance left with her patient who had been complaining of chest pains. Mr. Wyckoff loved to complain, but those kinds of complaints weren’t meant to be played around with.

She yawned and stretched before continuing her report on Mr. Wyckoff, noting his earlier symptoms. Rita passed by the desk with a man and woman, probably showing the facility to potential clients. She stopped the tour at the nurses’ station. “And this is one of our favorite nurses, Suzy Bylin.”

She stood and held out a hand to the woman first. “Checking us out for your parent?” She turned to face the man and paused. “Mr. Stone.”

He looked tired compared to yesterday. Worry had etched lines next to his ice blue eyes and left bags below them. He frowned at her. “I didn’t realize you worked here, Ms. Bylin.”

“I didn’t know you kept tabs on me.” She flipped over her tablet to keep the details of her report confidential. She didn’t need this; didn’t need to see the man who could make her life miserable at home and now here at work. “But I think you’ll find that we take good care of our patients. We provide not only nursing care, but activities designed to keep up their spirits while they rehabilitate.”

“You sound like the brochure.”

Mr. Stone’s frown deepened, and she felt her smile widen. He wasn’t going to bring her down. Nope, he wouldn’t ruin her day. “I only speak the truth.”

The woman next to him nudged him in the side. “I apologize for Will. He’s not usually this grumpy, but we’re worried about our mom. She fell and fractured her hip, so now we need somewhere for her to recover.”

She was his sister then. Why that thought made her feel better, Suzy didn’t want to explore. So she focused on their visit, and reached out and touched her hand. “I’m so sorry. But I can promise that your mom will get the best care here. I’ll see to it personally.”

The sister smiled and covered Suzy’s hand with her own. “That means a lot. Thank you.” Again, she nudged her brother. “Right, Will?”

He looked at his sister then at Suzy. Blinked several times. In those ice blue eyes, she could see he was out of his depth. That what was happening was not easy for him. And that made him approachable. Relatable. Her heart softened to him. Finally he gave a curt nod. “Yes.”

Suzy continued to look at him. Wanting to soothe the wrinkles in his forehead. Remove the fear and doubt shining out of his eyes. “If there are any questions you have or anything you need...”

An alarm went off, and Suzy focused on the monitors. Room thirteen, Mr. Taber. She left them and ran down the hall. Mr. Taber was lying on his bed, eyes closed. She leaned over him to check his vitals. Still breathing. Good. She noticed that his heartbeat was weak and irregular, the numbers said forty beats per minute. Without a thought, she began hands-on CPR. Rita joined her in the room and glanced at the monitors. “I paged the doctor.”

“Good. I think it’s a drug interaction. We just switched his meds last night.” She continued her compressions. She looked up from her task and saw Will watching them. “Mr. Stone, we’ll have to finish the tour later. You need to go back to the nurses’ station.”

He nodded and walked away. After a minute or so, the doctor on call arrived and took over the situation. With the group’s effort, they were able to resuscitate Mr. Taber and stabilize his condition. Suzy went back to the nurses’ station to make notes on Mr. Taber’s condition and found Will and his sister still standing there. She pasted a smile on her face again. “Sorry about your tour getting cut short.”

“Does that happen a lot?” he asked.

“Define a lot.” She shrugged. “It happens enough. But I can guarantee we will do our best to care for your mom and her needs.”

He gave a short nod, and his sister offered to shake hands again, and they did. “Nice to meet you, Miss Bylin.”

“Likewise.” And she meant it. She could sense a kindred spirit with this woman. Something about how she smiled or her concern for her mom made something inside Suzy warm towards the woman.

Mr. Stone shook her hand also but didn’t say a word before they moved down the hall with Rita, continuing their tour.

Suzy watched them leave and then got out her tablet. She needed to finish her report and go home to sleep before she did something crazy like hug Mr. Stone just because he didn’t know how to take care of his mom.

* * *

AFTER THE TOUR of Lake Mildred’s Seniors’ Home, Will drove them to the hospital to check on their mom. He kept his eyes on the road as Tori gushed about their tour. “It’s so nice there. And everyone is so friendly. Especially that one nurse, Miss Bylin.” She paused and glanced over at him. “Do you know her from somewhere? I think she went to high school with us.”

Knew her and her mother. “I know her a little.”

“She’s so cute and bubbly. I love her already.” Tori rested her chin on her fist. “I think Mom would like it there.”

“It’s going to be a hard sell no matter where we decide to leave her.”

“You talk as if we’re sending her away forever.” She shook her head. “I’m as clueless as you, but I have a good feeling about that place. Can we afford it?”

That was the big question. After leaving the hospital the night before, he had gone through his mom’s records to find the insurance papers that spelled out how much of the convalescent care would be covered, as well as their bank statements that showed how much they could pay for. Hopefully, it would be just enough. “Dad made sure Mom would be looked after. He might not have been a warm man, but he made arrangements so we’d be taken care of.”

“Good, then it’s settled. We’ll tell her today about our plan.”

“I’m warning you that she’s not going to like it no matter what we say.” He knew his mom. Knew her independent spirit. She wouldn’t be agreeing to this so easily. “She won’t want to go.”

Tori nodded and sighed. “She can be stubborn.”

“Luckily she has two kids who inherited that from her.” He gave a smile, his first since the call yesterday. Had it really only been a day since their world had shifted? It had started as a normal day but had changed in a moment with a phone call. Nothing would be the same again. He nodded. “But I agree. That’s where I’d like her to go, too.”

The exit for the hospital arrived, and Will took the exit ramp. As they got closer to the hospital, he made a vow that he’d take care of his mom. No matter what.

But that meant convincing his stubborn mother that he was right.

She folded her arms across her chest and refused to look at him. Much like a four-year-old would. He moved so that he’d be in her line of sight. “Ma, this is not up for discussion. You can’t go home right now.”

“Yes I can. I’m a grown woman who can make her own decisions.” She looked to Tori. She gave her daughter a large grin. “Baby, you think I can do it, right?”

Uh oh. Ma was dragging out the cutesy nicknames. Stay strong, Tori. Will watched his sister, willed her to hear his thoughts. They had to remain united to convince her that their plan would work.

Tori paled and shrugged. “It’s not what I think, Ma. This is what the doctors say.”

Will let out a puff of air. He’d hoped they’d be on the same page here, but when his mom pulled out the baby card...He nodded at Tori, letting her know she was on the right track. They were only doing what was right for Ma.

“Doctors.” Their mom shook her head. “What do they know?”

Will sat on the bed next to his mom. “They know that you need to recover from this surgery. And they know you can’t do it at home on your own.”

“I’ll be fine.”

Tori sat next to Will. “No you won’t. You’ll be out in the garden when you shouldn’t be. You’ll be going back to work too soon. And that’s why you’re going to the seniors’ home.”

“I promise I’ll be good.”

Yep, a four-year-old. He took his mom’s hand in his. “It’s not forever. Just for now.”

His mom shook her head and took her hand away from his. “I can’t believe you’re doing this to me. That you’re sending me to a home and forgetting me there.”

Tori pleaded, “I’ll visit you every day, Ma.”

“You just want to get rid of me.” She covered her face. “You don’t love me.”

Tori put her arms around their mom. “Don’t say that. Of course we love you.” His mom and sister burst into tears, hugging.

Frustrated, Will got up from the bed. He had to take control of this situation before they agreed to do anything his mom asked. She might be good at manipulation, but he’d learned from the best. He summoned the spirit of his father, and let the steel surrounding his heart tighten...because it was for his mother’s own good.

“That’s enough.”

Startled, his mother and sister let each other go and stared up at him. Good. He had their attention. “You’re sick, Ma. Dying even.”

Tori gasped. “Will—”

“Unless you’re willing to fight to get better.” He crouched in front of his mom. “So do you want to go home and die? Because that’s what will happen.” He used the most serious tone he could. “Or do you want to go to the seniors’ home and fight this? Be around for your kids and grandkids? Live to see your first great grandchild?”

His mom narrowed her eyes at him. Let her be angry at him. It might give her the strength she needed to beat this.

He didn’t let up on her. He clenched his fists. “You will be going into that home. You will have chemo once you’re recovered. And when the doctors clear you, you can finally go home.” He stood. “Am I clear?”

There was a pause and then Ma sighed. “You sound just like your father.”

And by that, he knew he’d won this round.

CHAPTER FOUR

SUZY TOOK HER afternoon coffee onto the deck and surveyed the backyard. Two days had passed, and she hadn’t started the clean up. Twelve days remained. She still had trash bags to drive to the dump. Old equipment to throw out. And Daddy’s car to be donated or sold.

She leaned against the railing and winced. She needed more time. She needed at least another eight hours a day for the next week to get all of this done. And if she didn’t finish in time, she’d pay a hefty fine and might lose Mama’s house.

She’d lose everything.

She walked back into the house and surveyed the cluttered kitchen and dining room. She couldn’t remember what the kitchen table looked like any more. It had been years since she’d seen it cleared off. She might have done her homework there during her high school days, but that was before Mama covered it with plastic bags, boxes and the various stuff she’d collected.

Now that Mama was gone, it was Suzy’s problem to deal with.

She put her mug in the kitchen sink and rinsed it out. Placed it face down in the wooden dish rack, a purchase she’d made after moving back in with Mama. Just one thing she’d had to do out of a million last year after her mother called for help. Her mother had put off getting medical attention until it was too late, meaning the cancer would win. And all Mama wanted was Suzy.

Her cell phone rang from the living room. She carefully moved past the stacked bundles of old newspapers and squeezed between the refrigerator and numerous boxes filled with china.

She checked the caller ID. Presley. “Hey, girl.”

“You working tonight?”

Suzy wrinkled her nose. “Don’t remind me. It’s my sixth day, and I’m ready for a day off. But Candice is on vacation, so...”

“When are we going to have a girls’ night out?”

“Soon.” She mentally reviewed her calendar. “Sunday night?”

Presley groaned. “I’ve got an early Monday. When’s your next day off?”

“Tuesday. As long as nothing else comes up.” Suzy loved her job. Usually. But these crazy hours robbed her of a social life. “And we don’t have to go crazy. Even a pizza in front of the TV sounds fabulous.”

“Pizza and TV. You got it.” Presley covered the phone, muting her conversation on the other end. Then her voice came back. “Gotta go. Vet emergency. I’ll call you.”

Then she was gone.

Suzy sat on the couch and rested her head. Okay. Time to get organized. Make some lists. She looked around the living room. Mama had to have a notebook and pen around here somewhere, right?

After searching several boxes and piles, she gave up. She’d get those from the drugstore in town. A walk would do her good. Get her out. Clear her mind. Give her a moment to collect herself. And then she could come up with a plan.

She didn’t bother locking the front door. Just grabbed her wristlet purse and left. The town hadn’t had a problem with crime in years. Plus, if they wanted to rob Mama’s house, it might make things easier on her in the end.

She took a can of cat food from her jacket pocket and used the ring to pull back the top. It was easy to find the empty dish at the end of Mr. Fletcher’s deck—where it always was—and she emptied the food onto it. She called out to Snowflake, but didn’t hear an answering meow. Maybe the cat was napping in the house and would eat later. She then left her neighbor’s yard and walked down the driveway and on towards town.

The walk took less than ten minutes, but it felt good to be outside with the sun on her back. To be free from the house and its issues. To leave her grief behind for just a moment.

She passed by the elementary school where kids played on the swings and chased each other. One of the playground monitors waved to Suzy then approached her. “I’ve been meaning to stop by and see how you’re doing.”

Mrs. Drayton had been a friend of Mama’s as long as Suzy could remember. She shrugged. “I’m okay.” Mrs. Drayton peered at her, and Suzy was tempted to squirm a little. Okay, a lot. “Really. I’m fine.”

“When I lost my mother, I stayed in bed for weeks.”

Suzy hadn’t been given that choice. “It’s been six months.”

Mrs. Drayton nodded. “Call me if you need anything, sweetie. Anything.”

“I appreciate that.”

A scream from the slide got Mrs. Drayton’s attention, and she excused herself to take care of a crying child.

Suzy could appreciate the concern that people had for her, but she was okay. Usually. She’d discovered how strong she was after spending months bathing and feeding Mama. Doing things for her that no daughter should be expected to. But she’d done it with a smile because that’s what Mama had needed. And being needed had felt good.

Suzy continued towards Main Street, passing the town hall before reaching the drug store. Inside, she found Mr. Stone talking to the cashier. Ducking behind one of the shelves, she snuck back to the office supplies and grabbed a notebook and pack of pens. She popped her head up to see if he had left. Whew. It was clear. She took her purchases to the cashier and added some bubble gum.

Chewing her gum, she stepped outside and started for home. She had just gone beyond the town hall steps when she heard her name being called. She turned and spotted Mr. Stone coming towards her.

Crud.

She pasted a smile on her face. “Mr. Stone, what a surprise.”

He stopped a couple feet from her. “I wanted to check in to see how things are going at your mother’s house.”

Double crud. “Fine.” Her cheeks hurt from keeping the smile on her face. She held up her shopping bag. “Bought some supplies so I can make a game plan for the clean up.”

He frowned at the bag. “Make a plan? You haven’t started? You only have...”

“Twelve days, I know.” She shifted her weight to the other foot. Wanted to leave, but it would probably be considered rude. “You don’t have to worry.”

“Still I think I’ll check in on you early next week.”

She shook her head. She didn’t need to be checked on like a child. She could do this. She was capable. Strong. “You don’t have to do that.”

His frown deepened. “Something tells me that I should.” He looked her up and down. “I won’t keep you.”

“So I can go home and work on the backyard? How kind of you.” She blew a bubble and let it pop. “Have a splendid day, Mr. Stone.”

“Likewise, Miss Bylin.”

* * *

WILL NOTICED TORI’S car outside the hospital when he arrived after work. He locked his car and walked up to the entrance. The coffee stand in the lobby called his name, but he’d need to sleep later. Not that he’d had much luck the past three nights.

Tori stood at the door of their mom’s room, leaning on the wall. Head down, arms crossed. Will went up to her and put his arm around her shoulder. “Everything, okay?”

Tori looked up at him, the skin below her eyes puffy and dark. She looked tired. Lost. And a little scared. “The doctor is giving her an exam now. I think they’ll be moving her to the nursing home soon.”

“Already?”

“They’ve done all that they can do here. She needs to recuperate in a home.”

Will nodded. He’d expected this. With the plans in place to send her to the Lake Mildred seniors’ home, it wasn’t a matter of if but when they moved her there. In his mind, the sooner, the better. Then they could all move forward. “Good.”

Tori shrugged. “I guess.”

“It’s a positive sign. Shows that she’s improving.” He rubbed her arm. “It’s going to be okay.”

“You can’t guarantee that. Her hip is repairing, but she still has cancer.” She held her hands to her face. “She could die. And then where would I be?”

“She’s too stubborn to die.” But did he really believe it? Yes, his mom was one tough cookie. But cancer had a way of making the strongest person frail and helpless.

He couldn’t think like that. Had to stay positive. Had to focus on the mission: getting his mom into the home and healed so she could start chemo. That was the plan. That was the goal.

Tori looked up at him. “I haven’t heard from our sisters. Have you?”

Will shrugged. “Are you really surprised by that? They’ve made it clear they don’t want anything to do with Ma or us.” He shook his head. “When’s the last time they were here for Christmas? Or even called.”

“Carol calls Ma every month.”

“To ask for money.” He hit his fist against his thigh. “I don’t get it, Tori. Ma didn’t do anything to deserve this. What did she ever do to them?”

“She didn’t protect them from Dad.” She frowned. “Sometimes it wasn’t the belt that hurt most. It was the names.”

He could still hear his dad’s voice after all these years. Loser. Worthless. Useless. Good for nothing.

“That wasn’t Ma’s fault.”

There was surprise etched on her face. “You’re defending her? That’s a switch.”

“I’m not that harsh.”

“Except when you want her to do what you want.”

He knew that would come back and bite him in the end. He took a long, deep breath. “She has to go to the home. She can’t live on her own and expect to get better. You know it as well as I do.”

“Sure, but you were so...” She seemed to be searching her brain for the right word. “Cruel.”

Had he been? Is that how they’d seen him? “Tough love isn’t cruel. It’s necessary.”

“And I’m sure Dad would have said the same thing.” She pushed off the wall. “I need some air.”

She started to walk down the hall. Will called after her. “Am I really like Dad?”

His sister stopped and turned. “Sometimes,” she said, and then she turned back and kept on walking.

* * *

WHEN SUZY DROVE UP to the seniors’ home, she noticed the ambulance near the entrance. The lights weren’t flashing, so that was a good sign. Maybe a new patient arriving? Or an old one leaving? She checked the ambulance but noted no one was inside.

In the break room, Suzy punched in and checked the assignment sheet before arriving at her usual station. As she walked, she pulled her hair back into a ponytail and secured it with a rubber band. There was activity down the hall. Two medics were pushing an empty gurney and she waved at them as they left.

A new patient then.

Which meant she’d be spending most of her evening monitoring the room and answering the tons of questions her new patient would have. She smiled. She loved meeting people.

Carly came up to her at the station. “Is it almost seven already? No wonder I’m tired.”

“We get new blood?”

Carly glanced down the hall and nodded. “You’ll like her. She’s feisty. Right up your alley.”

Suzy nodded. “The family?”

“Worried, of course.” Carly leaned in. “The son is a real looker, FYI.”

They shared a giggle then squelched it as the person in question strode out of the patient’s room. Mr. Stone. Suzy’s giggle died in her throat. Couldn’t she get away from the man?

He approached the nurses’ station. “Miss Bylin, thank God you’re here.”

She frowned. That wasn’t the reaction she’d been expecting. “What can I do for you, Mr. Stone?”

“My mother is being...” He sighed. “Difficult. Could you give me a hand?”

Carly looked between Suzy and Mr. Stone, questions written on her face. She nudged Suzy who nodded. “Of course. Let me just get my things, and I’ll meet you in her room.”

After he left, Carly spoke, but dropped her voice. “You know that guy?”

“A little.” She shrugged and grabbed her tablet. Turned it on. Wound her stethoscope around her neck. “If you need to take off before I’m finished, I’ll just read over your notes later.”

“You go ahead. Let me know what happens.” Carly winked at her.

Suzy shook her head as she walked down the hall to room twenty-three. Inside, Mr. Stone and his sister glared at the older woman in the bed. She took a deep breath and rushed in. “Am I in luck or what? A new friend in my wing.”

The woman merely stared at her, her upper lip clenched behind her lower. This was going to be a tough one.

Suzy clicked on the room information, but obviously Mrs. Stone hadn’t been there long enough for her files to get uploaded. She placed her tablet on the side table and moved around the bed instead. Noticed the stiff way her patient rested, favoring her right side. “They give you a new hip?”

Mrs. Stone turned to look at her children. Her son shook his head. “Repaired a fracture.”

“Those aren’t any fun, are they?” Suzy fussed with the pillows behind Mrs. Stone’s head though they looked fine. She observed how her new patient stayed quiet. Sullen. She warmed the stethoscope on her hand then placed it on Mrs. Stone’s chest. Moving into a facility could cause anxiety, and she wanted to check her heart. She paused a moment, listening. Sounded normal. “At least you’ll belong to me while you get better.”

Mr. Stone cleared his throat. “That was my request.”

She jerked her head up and stared at him. Interesting. Maybe he didn’t think she was so hopeless after all. “Well, thank you. I’m thrilled to care for your mom.” She tugged at the blanket and smoothed it out. Then she checked the leads for the monitors to make sure everything had been hooked up right. “Can I get you something, Mrs. Stone? Glass of water? Piece of pie?”

“You can get me out of here.”

Suzy laughed as if that was the first time she’d heard that. “Absolutely. Once the doctor gives you the all clear, I’ll be glad to wheel you out to your car.”

Mrs. Stone turned her face away from them. “Until then, get out. Leave me alone.”

“Can’t do that, I’m afraid. You’re my new best friend.” She addressed the family. “Is there anything I can get you two? The chef makes strawberry pie on Thursdays. I can go snag a couple of pieces.”

The sister nodded. “Ma loves strawberries.” She smiled at her mother. “Doesn’t pie sound good?”

“I want to go home.”

Mr. Stone shook his head again. His voice came out low and sounded almost dangerous. “Ma, we’ve been over this.”

“You’ve been over this. You’re the ones imprisoning me here.” Their mom looked out the window.

“Does that make me your warden, Mrs. Stone?” Suzy made a face. “I’ve been called a lot of things, but not that. Mr. Stone called me flighty the other day.”

Mrs. Stone looked her up and down. “My son is usually right.”

Suzy considered this and agreed. “You’re probably right. But once we get to know each other better, you can let me know what you think yourself.” She winked at the older woman who again turned away.

“So about that pie. Who’s up for it?” She pulled out an imaginary order pad and pen. “I can bring some coffee to go with.”

The sister grinned. “I think we could all use some. Right, Ma?”

Mrs. Stone rolled her eyes. “You do what you want. Obviously, it doesn’t matter what I think anymore.”

Yep, a difficult one. Suzy looked at Mr. Stone. “Think I’ll grab your son to give me a hand. We’ll be right back.”

He followed her out of the room and down the hall towards the main entrance and the kitchen. “I’m sorry about my mother.”

She stopped to look at him, noticing the bags under his eyes. Here was a man who loved his mom. It made him less forbidding. More...attractive. She shrugged. “You don’t have to apologize. I’m used to that.”

“She’s not usually that nasty.”

“She’s just had her life turned upside down. Anger is normal. Almost expected.” She opened the door and let him pass in front of her. “She needs a few days to adjust, then she’ll be back to almost normal.”

He looked at her. “Almost?”

“Mr. Stone, her life will never be the same even after she leaves here.” She went to the refrigerator and pulled out three pieces of pie and thrust them at him. “She has to learn a new normal.”

He nodded as he juggled the plates. “This is why I requested your section. I saw the way you handled the trauma the other day.”

“Just doing my job.” She grabbed a tray from below the coffee station, poured three Styrofoam cups of coffee, and added packets of cream and sugar to the tray.

“She needs some sunshine too, and I thought of you.”

She smiled at him. “I like that. Sunshine. Much better than warden.” She looked at him right in the eye. “Or flighty.”

“Miss Bylin, I—”

“Suzy, please. If I’m going to take care of your mother, you might as well call me by my first name.”

He nodded. “Suzy, I apologize for calling you that.”

She’d heard worse, especially from some of her angrier patients. “Like I said, I’ve been called a lot of things.” She arranged the tray and took the dessert plates from him. Added forks and napkins beside them. “Now this looks fabulous.”

He followed her back to room twenty-three. Suzy placed the tray on the bedside table with some flair. “Your dessert, madam.”

Mrs. Stone glanced at it then shook her head. “I’m not hungry.”

“We’ll leave it for later in case you change your mind.” Suzy passed a plate of pie to the sister along with a fork. “If you need anything else, I’ll be your waitress tonight.”

Will took a fork from her. “Thank you, Suzy.”

Mr. Stone attempted a smile, but it didn’t quite work. She had a feeling he wasn’t used to it. She grinned instead. “You betcha. Enjoy.”

She whistled as she waltzed out of the room. Mrs. Stone might prove to be an interesting case.

And seeing Mr. Stone again might not be so bad either.

As long as they didn’t discuss Mama’s house.

* * *

AFTER AN HOUR of short answers and cold silence, Will sighed and rose to his feet. His backside was getting numb from all this sitting anyway. He turned to his mom. “Visiting hours are ending, Ma. Do you need us to bring anything from home?”

Silence.

Tori approached the bed and put her hand on their mom’s, who snapped it away. His sister gestured at Will, probably hoping he could fix this. Just like he fixed everything else. But remembering Miss Bylin’s...Suzy’s advice, he overlooked the slight. “Well, if you think of anything, you have both of our cell phone numbers.”

He kissed his mother’s cheek then waited as Tori did the same. He then put his arm around his sister. “We’ll stop by tomorrow.”

“Don’t bother.”

Tori gasped, but Will nodded. “Lovey.”

“Lovey,” Tori echoed.

Nothing back. He pulled his sister from the room.

Tori began crying as their mother’s door shut behind them. He tugged her down the hall and stopped at the nurses’ station. Suzy popped her head up at their approach and smiled. “How’s my new friend?”

He winced. “The same. Angry. You’ll check on her?”

“It’s my job, Mr. Stone. But I’ll peek in her room a couple extra times.” She came around and gave his sister a tissue, then a hug. “I know this is hard, but it will get easier.” She handed them each a post-it note with a handwritten phone number and smiley face. “This is my cell phone number. Call me anytime. Seriously.”

Tori hugged Suzy. “You’re an angel.”

“You and your family calling me names. Trust me, I’m no angel.” She looked up at Will. “Mr. Stone knows that all too well.”

Tori seemed confused, a question in her eyes. He thrust his hand out at Suzy. “Please call me Will. It’s only fair after putting up with my mother.”

She waved it off. “I took an oath to be there for all my patients. But I especially look out for the new ones.” She eyed the clock. “I’d better go check on your mom. She probably misses you already.”

Tori looked back at the room. “Maybe I should go talk to her. Maybe she’ll listen to me.”

Suzy looked at her. “What’s your name?”

“Tori.”

Suzy put her arm around the woman’s shoulders. “Tori, you’ve done all you can do today. Going back in there right now will only make all of you feel worse. I mean it when I say give her a chance to miss you, to look forward to seeing you again.”

Will nodded. “We’ll be back tomorrow.”

“Perfect.” Suzy peered into Tori’s face. “This isn’t a sprint, but a marathon. You’re going to need all the rest you can get, so enjoy your evening. Go home. Watch some TV. Read a book. Go to bed early. And don’t worry about your mom. She’s in good hands.”

Tori turned into Suzy and hugged her again. “Thanks.”

Will took Tori from Suzy’s arms and helped his sister leave the nursing home. She took a few steps and looked back. Walked a few more, and glanced behind her a second time. When they reached his truck, she opened the passenger side door but stared back at the home. “Are we doing the right thing?”

“You heard Suzy. And I don’t think she would steer us wrong.”

Tori climbed into the pickup truck and fastened her seat belt. “I know you’re right. But I hate leaving her like this.”

“We’ll be back tomorrow. And the next day. And the next.” He started the engine then turned to her. “Suzy said her attitude will improve in a few days.”

“Suzy, huh?” Tori wiped the corners of her eyes, then blew her nose. “You two seemed awfully cozy.”

“We talked when we got the pie and coffee.” He shrugged. “I wouldn’t exactly call it cozy. But she did help explain things.”

“Well, I like her.” She grabbed a new tissue. “She seems so nice.”

She did. And not like the flighty woman he’d met only days ago. “She’s good at her job. And you can see that she’s good with people.”

“I feel better knowing that she’s watching out for mom.”

“I do too.” Despite her house and the disaster in the yard, she appeared competent. Friendly. And he wouldn’t have to worry about his mom.

At least not about the nursing care she was receiving.

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