Chapter 152

“The same. Let me know if you have any more questions.”

As the doctor rounded a corner, Patrick’s mother rose. “I’m Maureen,” she said. “And I want you to know, if Patrick doesn’t make it…”

I held my breath as she tried to steady hers and collect her thoughts. I held my breath the whole time, if that was possible, if I was breathing, half-expecting her to say, “It’s all your brother’s fault,” or to blame me for Patrick falling in love with a man when she very much wanted him to be with a woman. Maybe, she didn’t even believe we were in love.

“These past few months have been the happiest my son has ever had.”

Oh. She said something nice.

“My brother, too.” When Shelby stood, Maureen took her hand.

“I wish I had…I hope I do get to meet your brother, because he’s responsible for that.”

“See,” Jefferson said.

“We have to believe they’ll both be okay.” Shelby was tough. “And the next time we get together, the occasion will be happy, a wedding, right?”