Chapter 27

“Is that so?” Rocco asked.

“We’ll see how it goes.”

A light snow was falling on Christmas Eve. A group of hospital staff members was caroling up and down the hallway. There had been no change in Ridley’s condition, and as Rocco took his turn at the bedside, he begged him to open his eyes. “It’s Christmas.” Rocco closed his and prayed. “Come on. Miracles happen on Christmas and I need one now.” He raised his head to the ceiling and asked again. “Bring him back to me.”

“Why aren’t you on your cruise?”

Rocco opened his eyes and looked down to meet Ridley’s beautiful green ones. “You’re awake.” He had to part some red hair to be certain.

“Ow.” Ridley had tried to move. “Why does my head hurt? Why aren’t you on your cruise?”

“How could I leave you? Don’t try to move, Rid.” Rocco pulled the covers up around him. “I love you.”

“You do?”

“Do you know what day it is?”

“You love me?”

Rocco took his hand. “For a while now. Completely. I should get the doctor.”