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- Herausgeber: MC Two Press
- Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
- Sprache: Englisch
Enjoy this clean, small town romance by award winning and bestselling author, Lucinda Race.
The first time they met was fleeting, the second time restarted her heart...
Anna Price’s work at her family’s winery in a small town in upstate New York has her feeling as if she’s invisible. There has to be more to life than just developing wine. She’s jolted when her father suffers a heart attack, then gets a jolt of a different kind from the man taking care of him. Colin's the one man who made her believe in romance and love at first sight.
Colin Grant is a nurse practitioner specializing in the care of cardiac patients. He’d met Anna once before, but she was the girl who slipped away. But this time, it’s different. There’s no denying his attraction to the girl who has it all, brains and beauty, and has no idea how captivating she is.
After falling in love with Colin Anna’s offered an opportunity of a lifetime and she can’t say no. Colin’s job is caring for other people’s hearts and he’s determined not to have his own broken again. Absence doesn’t always make the heart grow fonder. But is it worth the risk for a lifetime of love?
Crush is the second novel in the Price Family Romance Series, although each book can be read as standalone. A sweet and clean romantic story with a guaranteed happily ever after. Happy reading!
Das E-Book können Sie in Legimi-Apps oder einer beliebigen App lesen, die das folgende Format unterstützen:
Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023
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CRUSH
A CLEAN SMALL TOWN STAR-CROSS LOVE ROMANCE
PRICE FAMILY ROMANCE
LUCINDA RACE
MC TWO PRESS
CONTENTS
Thank you
Inspiration
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter 29
Chapter 30
Chapter 31
Chapter 32
Chapter 33
Chapter 34
Chapter 35
Excerpt
A FREE Story For You
Sneak Peek
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Social Media
About Lucinda
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.
Copyright © 2021 Lucinda Race
All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce, distribute, or transmit in any form or by any means. For information regarding subsidiary rights, please contact the Author Lucinda Race.
Editing by Susan Helene Gottfried at West of Mars
Proofreader Kimberly Dawn
Cover design by Jade Webb www.meetcutecreative.com
Manufactured in the United States of America
First Edition May 2021
Print Edition ISBN978-1-954520-02-8
E-book Edition ISBN 978-1-954520-01-1
THANK YOU
Thank you for purchasing Crush. I hope you enjoy reading Anna and Colin’s story. I love writing characters who are a bit older and deserve a second chance at happiness. So, turn the page and fall in love in with the Price Family.
If you’d like to stay in touch, consider joining my Newsletter. I release it twice per month with tidbits, recipes and an occasional a special gift just for my readers.
https://lucindarace.com/newsletter/ and there is a free book when you join! Happy reading…
INSPIRATION
Wine is not just an object of pleasure, but an object of knowledge;
and the pleasure depends on the knowledge.
– Roger Scruton
1
QUICK NOTE: If you enjoy Crush, be sure to check out my offer for a FREE Price Family novella at the end. With that, happy reading!
Anna followed her sister Liza’s minivan to their parents’ house for the traditional Price family post-wedding brunch hosted by Mom and Dad. The April weather was perfect, warm enough to be outside and enjoy the day, but not too hot so people wanted to be in air conditioning. Today they were celebrating Anna’s younger sister Tessa and her new husband Max. Tomorrow they’d be off on their honeymoon.
This turtle pace caused her fingers to tap on the steering wheel. Her car was meant for hugging curves in the road like yoga pants to her backside. The candy-apple red Benz had been an impulse buy to ignite her fun side again and alleviate the humdrum of her life and career. How had she turned into some old lady by her late thirties?
The minivan slowed even further and turned up the long gravel driveway to their parents’ home. Daffodils and tulips lined the way, with deep purple pansies adding a splash of contrasting color peeking from under the evergreen and large maple trees.
Ahead of her, the circular driveway was filled with cars: her siblings and extended family, with a few others she didn’t recognize. More than likely rental cars from Tessa and Max’s out-of-town wedding guests. She parked so she could make a quick getaway, leaving the keys in the ignition before running up the front steps after Liza. Her nephews, Johnny and George, came flying through the door and into Liza’s open arms. Despite being six and seven and tall for their ages, she was still able to scoop them up and cover their faces with kisses. The boys looked like their uncles, but the freckles were from their dad. There was a time when Anna thought she’d have a couple of kids wanting to leap into her arms and the familiar pain of regret that she didn’t stung.
“Hey, Mom, you’ll never guess what.” Johnny was first to wriggle from her arms. “Uncle Leo said we can spend the night at his house whenever we want.”
George interjected, “But we have to ask you first.”
“So, were you good for Mimi and Poppy?” She looked from one sweet face to the other.
They both nodded. “Yup.”
She ruffled their hair. “Good.”
In unison, they asked, “So when can we have another sleepover?”
“Tonight?” George asked.
Johnny looked up. “Please, Mom? We’ll be good.”
“It’s a school night and you know the rule. No sleepovers during the week, but I’ll talk to your uncle and we’ll plan something.”
Anna was silent while she watched the boys try and change Liza’s mind, to no avail. “Hey, boys, I’ll bet Mimi is waiting for us to get inside.”
“Come on, Johnny. Mimi will set up the sprinkler out back.”
As the boys raced away, Liza called after them, “No sprinklers. It’s too cold.”
Anna looked at Liza. “Really? You sound just like Mom.”
Liza placed a hand over her heart and chuckled. “Are you forgetting I am their mother?”
Anna opened the door and they stepped into the whirlwind of brunch where, as happy as she was for Tessa, she longed for someone special in her life.
The afternoon was the usual fun-filled chaos. Laughter filled the rooms, plates overflowed, and glasses were never empty for long. A party at the Price family home was not to be missed.
Anna noticed her dad sitting quietly, watching the kids play outside sans the sprinkler. She wandered over.
“Hey, Dad, whatcha doing out here?” She dropped next to him on the glider.
He looked up. “Just a little tired. I didn’t sleep well last night—a touch of heartburn.”
“Can I get you something? Antacid or glass of milk?”
He patted her hand. “I just needed some air. Nothing to worry about at all.”
“I don’t mind. How about I get a glass of water?”
“Stop fussing over me, Anna. I’m okay.”
His voice wavered, which did nothing to quiet her growing concern. Sam Price was a tower of strength. He rarely took a day off, let alone got sick—with the exception of a mild heart attack a few years ago.
They watched the grandkids playing.
“Ben isn’t one to be left behind by the bigger boys.”
Kate and Don’s three-year-old son was the spitting image of his mother, with striking green eyes and dark hair. He was tall, but his dimples were all Price.
“They look out for him though.” Anna pointed to George, who was racing with Johnny across the backyard. He turned back and saw Ben, who had stopped to try to tie his shoe. Instead of continuing to chase his brother, George turned to his cousin. He knelt down and tied Ben’s sneaker, then checked the other one. Then they both raced to join Johnny.
“He’s a good big brother. Do you ever wish you had a couple?”
“Maybe someday I will, but not yet.” The last thing she wanted her dad to know was that she wished she was in Tessa’s shoes, planning for a real future instead of being stuck—work, home, repeat.
He shifted in the seat and tapped the middle of his chest.
“Maybe I should have some milk. Would you mind getting me a glass?” He grasped her hand. “But don’t make this a big deal. I don’t want Tessa and Max to miss their flight out tonight.”
Leave it to Dad to downplay that he didn’t feel good. “I’ll be right back,” she said, jumping up and hurrying into the house. She went straight to the kitchen, smiling at Max’s sister Stella and trying to play it cool. She didn’t want to create a situation as she went to the refrigerator and got the carton of milk. Thankfully, most of the guests had gone and only family remained.
Her youngest brother Leo strolled over. “What’s going on?”
He knew of her aversion to milk.
Softly she said, “Dad’s not feeling well. Complaining of indigestion and asked for a glass.”
His brow shot up. “Is that all it is?”
“I’m not sure.” She put the carton away and picked up the glass. “Come with me and see for yourself.”
He took a cursory look around the room. “Let me get my cell.”
Mom had a thing when you came into a party at her house. All cell phones were put in a basket on the breakfast bar. Her theory was you came to socialize and you couldn’t if you were always looking at your phone.
“Meet you out back.”
“Try not to worry, sis; it’s probably nothing. Too much food, wine, and dancing yesterday.”
She tried to relax, but she wasn’t so sure. “I’m sure you’re right.”
Making a smooth exit without Mom asking questions, Anna stepped onto the back deck. Her eyes went directly to her father. He was still massaging his chest and shrugging his shoulder. His face was pale.
“Dad.” She dropped next to him. “Does your chest hurt?”
He ignored the question and held out his hand to take the glass of milk. He took a small sip and grimaced.
“I feel like I’m going to throw up.”
Leo overheard the statement and pulled out his phone. “I’m calling EMS.”
“Don’t overreact. It’s just a little stomach upset. Nothing more.” His usual commanding voice was replaced by one laced with apprehension. “Tell your mom before the sirens scare the heck out of her.”
She turned and waved a hand at George. “Can you come here a minute?”
He dashed over.
“Run inside and ask Mimi to come out here.”
“Sure thing.”
He zipped around the outdoor dining chairs and through the open door.
In less than a minute, Mom came rushing out. “Sam,” she cried and grabbed his hands, rubbing them as if to warm them. “What’s wrong?”
“Maybe I ate something that didn’t agree with me.” Beads of sweat appeared on his upper lip. “I’m sure I’ll be fine.”
Leo said, “Mom, an ambulance is on the way. Should I call Dad’s cardiologist?”
“Um, yeah. His number is on the fridge.” She continued to rub his hands between hers.
Anna looked up. “Go. Tell the others.”
Leo went inside. The time dragged and when she checked her watch, it had been only a minute which seemed like a lifetime.
Dad had his eyes closed and Mom held his hand, fighting back tears. Anna took the glass of milk and set it aside. She looked around, anxious to hear sirens. But nothing yet. Don rushed to her side.
“What’s wrong with Dad?”
She kept her eyes glued on Dad’s face. “I’m guessing a heart attack.”
“Should we help him inside?”
“Will you stop hovering.” Dad gave him a stern look but his voice wavered. They sat in silence, straining to hear the sounds of an ambulance. He rubbed the center of his chest and then massaged his left shoulder and down his arm, and his face grew pinched.
Time dragged. Finally, a faint wail of sirens could be heard in the distance. They grew closer.
Jack, her other brother, burst through the door. Two men in dark-blue jackets, white shirts, and matching pants were right behind him. Each one carried two cases and strode across the deck.
One dropped to kneel beside Sam. He took his wrist in his hand and studied his watch.
“Mr. Price, can you tell me how you’re feeling?”
Anna said, “He was complaining his chest ached and he was nauseous. He said it started last night.”
“Do you have a history of heart problems?” He handed Dad a small tablet of nitroglycerin and directed him to put it under his tongue.
“Yes.”
“How long have you been having symptoms?”
Dad looked at Mom. “I’m not sure. Since yesterday maybe.”
The EMS man strapped a blood pressure cuff to Dad’s arm and pumped it up. During this time, his partner wheeled out a chair.
“Mr. Price, we’re going to take you to the hospital. I’ll help you up and you’re going to sit on that chair. Once we get outside, we’ll get you into the ambulance and your family can follow us.”
Leo piped up. “I’ve called his cardiologist at Crescent Lake Memorial and he’ll meet us at the ER.”
Dad didn’t argue and allowed himself to be helped into the transport chair. He gave a weak smile to Mom. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. I’m breaking up the party.”
She smoothed a hand over his cheek and kissed his forehead. “Nothing to be sorry about, and we’ll be right behind you.”
She looked at Liza and Anna. “I have to put the food away before I go.”
Anna knew this was her mom’s way to regain her equilibrium. “Mom, I’ll clean up here and follow you in a few minutes. Don and Kate will drive you.”
Liza stepped forward. “I’ll keep the boys at my house.”
Mom looked around, dazed. “I need my purse and keys.”
Don took her elbow. “Come on, Mom.”
While this was going on, Dad was secured to the chair, which was wheeled into the house. They followed the EMS and Dad out the front door.
Stuffing the worry down, Anna rushed down the front steps to drop a kiss on Dad’s cheek.
“I’ll see you in a bit. I love you, Daddy.” She blinked back the tears that threatened to spill down her cheeks.
“Love you.” He was eased into the waiting ambulance. One man climbed in back with him and the other closed the doors, immediately striding toward the driver’s door.
Don pulled the car up and Anna rushed over to open the passenger door for Mom. Kate was sitting in the back.
“I’ll see you at the hospital.” She leaned down. “Call if anything happens.”
Don said, “Will do.”
Anna slammed the door. She watched, feeling helpless as both the ambulance with lights flashing and Don’s car raced down the driveway. Jack, Liza, and Leo were watching the ambulance, their faces blank.
She looked around the group. “Where’s Tessa and Max?”
Tessa ran down the steps. “Here. We’re headed to the hospital.”
Anna threw a frantic look at the kitchen.
Stella ushered the three young boys into the family room. She tilted her head to the door and said, “Go. I’ll watch the kids, clean up the kitchen, and take care of the house. We’re family now.”
“Thanks, Stella.” Anna looked at her siblings. “Let’s go.”
2
Anna paced the long, overly bright hallway; the polished linoleum floor and dull-colored walls were so sterile, along with the antiseptic smell that filled her sensitive nose. It was like this the last time he was in the hospital; that smell made her pulse race, and not in a good way. Her sneakers squeaked as she turned to pace the length again. She couldn’t spend another minute sitting and waiting for news about Dad.
Just yesterday, he had been smiling and dancing at Tessa’s wedding. Now he was in the cardiac unit, lying in a bed, hooked up to machines monitoring his every vital function. Mom was by his side, waiting for the doctor to tell them the results. The rest of the family was sitting in the waiting room just outside the ICU. How they could just sit there and wait was beyond her. Instead, she walked the halls.
A handsome man who looked very familiar approached her. He had been Dad’s nurse after his heart attack a few years ago. He was dressed in green scrubs, was tall, and walked with quiet confidence. She couldn’t help but notice his sculpted biceps under his shirtsleeves. A stethoscope was around his neck and a pen and pad poked from the pocket of his shirt.
“Anna?”
“Yes.” His voice put her at ease instantly. It was like a good pinot noir, smooth.
“I’m Colin Grant, your father’s nurse practitioner.”
She stuck out her hand. “I remember you were his nurse when Dad was in the hospital a few years ago.” As they connected, a spark gave her heart a jolt.
A smile of recognition flashed over his face. “I remember you too.”
She could feel her face flush, as she had definitely remembered how he had made her feel the first time they met. “How’s my dad?”
“He’s a lucky guy. But he will need a coronary bypass and vein graft. Which means we’ll take a healthy vein and bypass the blocked artery.”
“Do my parents know?” She glanced down the hall toward the elevator.
“Yes. Dr. Thomas is with them now, and the rest of the family has been updated too. One of your brothers said you were walking the halls and they’d fill you in when you returned but I’m glad I bumped into you.” He gave her an understanding smile.
Her eyes slipped to the floor as she exhaled. “I’m not good at just hanging around.” She met his kind eyes. “NP? I thought it was RN?”
“Good memory. The first time we met, I was a registered nurse, in school to become a nurse practitioner. My specialty is still cardiac patients. I work with Dr. Thomas and people like your dad. I’ll be a part of his care team as he prepares for surgery, and afterward, he’ll need to make a few lifestyle changes.”
She listened intently. “I’ll do whatever is needed to help him recover.” Her throat constricted. “Is he going to be okay? I mean, is the surgery risky?” She didn’t want to put into words and ask if her father could die. It was as if that would tempt fate.
“All surgery has risks, but it is absolutely necessary for your father to live a long and healthy life.”
“Is he comfortable now?” Absentmindedly, she toyed with the end of her ponytail.
“He’s resting, and the surgery will be scheduled for tomorrow morning.”
“Why not now? If he needs it, shouldn’t it be done right away?” The sense of panic was rising again in her stomach.
“We’ll monitor him overnight, but it’s important to get his blood pressure stable, and he’s a bit dehydrated. Waiting won’t pose any additional risk for him and in the cardiac unit, he’ll be closely monitored.”
He touched her shoulder. It was a comforting gesture that quieted the fear clutching her heart.
“Can I see him now or should I wait with the family?”
“Come on. I’ll take you to him and if you have any more questions, I’ll be around.”
“Thanks for talking with me.” She gave him a strained smile. “You’re very kind. I’m sure it’s just part of the job, but I appreciate it. Well, maybe it’s just who you are. Not all medical professionals are as nice.” She clamped her mouth closed and glanced at him. “I have a bad habit of rambling when I’m worried or nervous.”
He gave her a reassuring smile, and his hazel eyes were kind. “My sister Marie is a lot like that, so I’m used to it.”
She could feel her cheeks grow warm and was at a loss for words.
A set of heavy glass doors whooshed open as they walked into the cardiac unit. Her father was in a bed at the end by the window. A few other beds were occupied by people of various ages. Anna was surprised; she thought only older people had heart attacks. But this wasn’t the heart attack wing. It was for all types of heart issues.
Walking softly to not disturb anyone, she approached Dad. Mom was by his side. Colin fell behind as she walked the rest of the way alone.
Mom was holding Dad’s hand. He was resting with his eyes closed.
She whispered, “Hi, Mom.”
“Anna. I wondered where you had gone off to.” Her brow was furrowed with worry lines. “Your dad was concerned.”
“I didn’t mean to upset anyone. I went for a walk, as the sitting around was driving me nuts.” She looked over her shoulder. Her eyes sought his. “Colin found me and gave me the update on Dad’s condition and told me that he has to have surgery tomorrow.” She eased her mom into a chair. “How are you doing?”
“I’ll be fine. It’s just—” Tears welled up in her mom’s eyes and trailed down her cheeks. “I never dreamed we’d be back in the hospital, waiting for surgery. I really did think that we had his heart condition under control. He’s been exercising and watching what he eats. Mostly.”
“I’m sure there are cases when things like this happen. But he’s in good hands with Dr. Thomas and Colin. We’ll be bringing him home very soon.”
Dad’s eyes fluttered and he gave her a tiny smile. “Love your optimism, Anna. You’ve always been my glass is three-quarters full kind of girl.”
She placed a hand on the blankets. “Hey, Dad. How are you feeling?”
His voice was weak. “Guess it wasn’t indigestion.”
“You were lucky. You ignored the symptoms you were having for too long.”
Mom looked between Anna and Dad. “What are you talking about?”
“Do you want to tell her or should I?”
He gave a half shrug and looked out the window. “You can.”
She turned her gaze to Mom. “Apparently, he was having symptoms yesterday during the wedding.”
“Sam.”
Anna could hear the anguish in Mom’s voice.
“Why didn’t you say anything?”
“I couldn’t ruin Tessa’s wedding. And saying I wasn’t feeling well would have put the kibosh on the happy day.”
“How do you think Tessa would have felt if you had dropped dead on the dance floor?” Mom’s tone ratcheted up with each word.
“Sherry, shush. There are people trying to rest, and your tone can be grating.”
Mom pushed the metal chair back. The legs screeched against the linoleum floor. Through clenched teeth, she said, “I can’t believe you would risk your health. Yes, it was our daughter’s wedding day but really, Sam…” Tears coursed down her cheeks. With a hitch in her voice, she continued. “You could have said something when we got home last night.”
“You were exhausted and we had brunch today. I figured I’d wait until tomorrow and call the doctor.”
Anna could see why her dad had waited, but his logic was messed up. Mom was right. Things could have turned out very differently.
“Guys, let’s just take a deep breath. Dad’s in the hospital and on the mend.”
Mom moved to stand next to the window. She dried her eyes and Dad snorted. “Easy for you to say. I’m the one who goes under the knife tomorrow, and it sounds like they’re going to crack open my chest. That’s a long recovery.”
Anna moved closer to the edge of the bed. “You’re going to do everything the doctor says.”
He grumbled, “At least I can count on you and your brothers to keep the winery buzzing. Spring is not the best time to be sick.”
“Don’t give CLW another thought.” Her heart flipped. So much for making changes to her life or career. She could never leave the winery if something happened to her dad. “Does this mean you’re going to move into full retirement mode and stop going into the office five days a week?”
“For the time being, it seems I won’t have a choice.”
“Good.” Anna stood up. “I’m going to find the family and then, Mom, do you want me to drive you home?”
“No, I’ll stay here tonight.” Sam held out his hand to her. Mom moved to the bed and took it. She visibly softened as she smiled. “I know what you’re going to say.”
“You do, do you?” Dad squeezed her hand and winked at Anna.
“You’re sending me home to get a good night’s sleep.”
With a soft chuckle, he said, “See, Anna, what forty years of marriage does to a person? We can read the other’s mind.” His eyes softened. “Drive Mom home, okay?’
“I’ll wait outside. Take your time.” She leaned over Dad and kissed his cheek. Somehow, he seemed more fragile than he had sitting on the back deck just a few hours ago. She guessed it was the machinery beeping and the IV attached to his arm. “I’ll check in later.”
She turned to give them some privacy.
He called to her, “Love you, kid.”
She turned and looked over her shoulder. “I love you too, Dad.” She blinked away the tears. He was the strong and silent type when it came to expressing his feelings. Tears blurred her vision and she walked into Colin.
He reached out and grasped her arms. “Hey, are you okay?”
She nodded and wiped the dampness from her cheeks with the palms of her hands.
“Your father is in good hands so there is no need to worry, and you can call anytime, twenty-four seven, and check on him.” He reached into his chest pocket and pulled out a slip of paper. “Here’s the number for the unit.”
Without looking at it, she tucked it into the pocket of her capris. “Thanks.” She nodded toward the door. “I need to find my family.”
“I saw them in the cafeteria a few minutes ago.” He pointed to the elevator. “Go to the first floor and turn right. Walk to the end of the hall.”
“Colin?”
“Yes, Anna?”
The way he said her name made her believe he cared about her dad and her. “My father’s going to be okay, right?”
“We’ll do our very best, but in my experience, he’s an excellent candidate to make a full recovery.”
She dropped her head, hoping he was right and they wouldn’t lose Dad. “I’m scared.”
“That is completely understandable.” He reached in his pocket and withdrew another slip of paper. “This is a bit unorthodox, but here’s my number. If you need to talk, give me a call. Anytime.”
She extended her hand. He clasped it. The warmth went up her arm and wrapped around her. Surprised, she gasped and stared into his eyes. Time seemed to stand still.
“Anna.” The sound of Mom’s voice broke the trance Colin’s eyes seemed to have trapped her in.
“Um, Mom, are you ready to leave?”
Distracted, she fumbled with her handbag. “No, but Dad wants me to go home so I’m going to let him rest.”
“You can come back anytime you’d like, Mrs. Price.”
“You’ll call if anything changes, won’t you?”
Colin’s attention was focused on Mom. “Of course.” He then looked at Anna as he spoke to her mom. “If you need to come back later, the front door will be locked. Use the ER entrance and tell them your husband is in ICU.”
“We will.” Anna slipped her arm through the crook of Mom’s. “Let’s go round up the troops and head home. I’m sure the little guys are anxious to see you.” She gave Colin a smile of thanks and steered Mom in the direction of the elevator.
Colin watched Anna and her mother get on the elevator. He remembered her vividly. She had been sitting at the foot of her father’s bed, surrounded by her entire family. He had wanted to ask her out on the spot, but that would have been totally unprofessional. After all, her father had had a heart attack and his nurse was going to hit on her? But time hadn’t dimmed his attraction to her. How could he have held the torch for her this entire time? It wasn’t like he had seen her around the area. He had been immersed in school and work, and Anna, well, she lived the glamorous life on a winery.
The elevator doors slid open and a nurse pushed an occupied bed into the hall. He stepped out of the way to let them pass. Time to get back to work. He walked through the unit doors and followed the nurse pushing the bed. A new patient would hopefully keep him distracted from the tall, beautiful brunette with the soft, chocolate-brown eyes.
3
The sun was just painting the sky from dark grayish purple to magenta, and clouds of peach drifted across the brightening blue sky. The hues of early morning gave Anna hope for the day ahead. She was behind the wheel with Mom in the passenger seat, her head turned to the horizon. Nothing bad could happen after such a glorious start. Could it?
“How did you sleep last night?”
Mom didn’t look at her. “I didn’t.”
Anna’s hands tightened on the steering wheel. “You should have called. I would have come over.”
“You needed to rest. It’s going to be a long day for all of us.”
“Did you check on Dad during the night?”
“I called every hour.”
The first night had to be the hardest on the spouse. Anna was worried that Mom was holding all her emotions in check.
“He was resting comfortably, so that’s all that mattered.” For the first time, Mom’s voice cracked. She patted the bag in her lap. “I brought his reading glasses and that mystery book he started.”
Anna wasn’t about to tell Mom he probably wouldn’t be up to reading anytime soon. If it made her feel better, it was worth bringing it to the hospital. “Did you bring a sweater and something for you to read to keep your mind occupied while Dad’s in surgery?”
“I can read his book but I don’t expect I’ll be able to concentrate on anything until it’s over and I know he’s okay.” Her hands tightened on the bag’s strap. “I’m scared.”
Anna slowed the car and pulled over. She put the car in park and faced her mom. “We’re all frightened, but we have each other to lean on, and Dad has all of us. Together, we can get through anything.” She pulled her mom’s cold, clammy hand away from the strap she was clutching. “Mom, you can count on me.”
“I know.” Her eyes were bright but she didn’t shed a tear. “We should get to the hospital. I need to see your father before they take him down at seven.”
She gave Mom’s hand one final squeeze and turned her attention back to the road. They drove the remainder of the trip in silence, mother and daughter each lost in their own thoughts and fears.
Don, Tessa, and Jack’s cars were already in the visitor lot when Anna parked. Liza had to get the boys off to school, and Leo had volunteered to stop over and help. The boys had been off the wall last night once they learned their grandfather had to stay in the hospital and have surgery. Liza was sure it had a lot to do with losing their dad, and Leo was ready to lend a guiding hand. Once the boys were on the bus, they’d join the family.
Mom sat still as a statue after the car was turned off. “I don’t want to go inside.”
“Why not?” Just minutes ago, Mom had wanted to get to the hospital and now she didn’t want to get out of the car.
“If we don’t, the clock won’t start ticking down to when he goes into surgery.”
“You need to look at it another way. Once Dad’s out of surgery, he’ll be on the road to a full recovery. Surgery is the first step.”
A sob escaped her. “I couldn’t bear it if anything happened to him.”
“He has good doctors and Dad is too stubborn to give up.” Anna’s heart broke a little. She knew her parents loved each other, but this was the first time she had seen her mother so vulnerable.
Mom tapped her temple. “I know that here but”—she tapped the middle of her chest—“in here, I’m terrified.”
Anna placed her hand over Mom’s. “You’re not alone. You have all of your children to lean on today—and for all the days ahead.”
“I’m ready.” Her voice was shaky but Mom got out of the car, still clutching her bag as if it were her lifeline.
Anna hit the lock button on her car and walked with her mom, arm in arm, across the lot and through the main doors. She gave Mom’s arm a squeeze. “He’s going to be just fine.”
Mom gave Anna a tentative smile as they waited for the elevator. They rode to the fourth floor in silence. Once they stepped off, they discovered the waiting area directly across the hall. Just as Anna suspected, Don, Kate, and Jack were waiting inside. Tessa and Max came from the opposite direction, juggling cardboard trays of what Anna hoped was strong coffee. Other than wine, her family had coffee flowing through their veins.
“Has anyone been in to see your father yet?” Mom asked.
“We were waiting for you.” Don leaned in and brushed his lips against her cheek. “How are you doing?”
“I’m okay.” She hesitated and then walked into the critical care unit and paused at the desk while she spoke with a nurse before making her way to Dad’s bedside.
Anna could see through the glass walls that there was a different nurse standing next to Dad’s hospital bed. She seemed to be taking his vital signs. The family went into the waiting room and sat down.
Tessa leaned forward and massaged her temples. Max slid his arm around her shoulders. Not speaking to anyone, she said, “I feel awful. If it hadn’t been for the wedding, Dad would have gotten to the doctor sooner.”
Anna’s head swiveled in her direction. “I think it’s just the opposite. Dad was having symptoms and he was ignoring them. If we hadn’t had brunch, more than likely he would have just kept ignoring them, had a heart attack, and who knows if he would have been driving his car, wandering in the vineyard, or what. He might have collapsed without anyone around.”
Jack added, “Anna’s right. Dad’s a stubborn guy. We have no idea how long he was having issues before the wedding.”
Tessa shook her head. “No. But.”
“No buts.” Mom strode into the room. “Each of you need to go spend a minute or two with Dad before they take him to surgery.” She pointed to Don and Kate. “We’ll go in order of age.”
Anna couldn’t help but chuckle a little. “You’re always going to organize us by birth order, aren’t you, Mom?”
She gave Anna the first real smile of the day. “Mothers have been using that particular method for generations. It works, so why change?”
Don and Kate left the waiting area, hand in hand. Anna could only guess what they were thinking. She felt the weight of the world on her shoulders.
“Will Liza and Leo arrive in time to see Dad?”
Max held up his phone. “I got a text from my sister. She’s going over to Liza’s to get the boys on the bus, so Leo and Liza should be here shortly.”
Tessa clasped his hand. “That’s really nice of her.”
He kissed the back of her hand. “We’re family, remember?”
Tessa rested her head on his shoulder. Anna felt the old familiar longing of wanting that too. Someone to lean on in the tough days and have fun with on the good ones.
Colin poked his head around the corner. “Good morning.”
Anna stood up and crossed the small space to him.
“Hi. Have you seen my dad yet?”
“No. I was walking in and saw you sitting here, so I wanted to check in. Make sure you’re holding up okay.” His gaze swept the room. “All of you.” But his eyes came back to rest on her.
Mom looked from Colin to Anna and then back to Colin. “That is very kind of you.”
Anna stuck her hands in the pockets of her lightweight sweatshirt. “Will you be in surgery with Dad?”
With a shake of his head, he said, “No. I’m not a part of the surgery team, but I’ll check on him before he goes down and I’ll be here when he comes up from recovery.”
“I see.” She looked at the floor, disappointed, and realized she’d feel better if Colin was with him.
“I can check in with the operating room if you’d like while he’s down there.”
She brightened. “You can do that?”
“You can relax. I’ll be here all day and you still have my number, right?”
Anna nodded, oblivious that her family was listening intently to this conversation. “I do.”
“If you can’t find me, just call. If I don’t answer, leave a message and I’ll find you. I’m assuming you’re going to be here for the day?”
“Until Dad is back and resting comfortably, you won’t be able to pry me out of here.” She gave a half smile.
“You’re welcome to stay. The surgery will last around five hours, and then he’ll be in recovery while he comes out of anesthesia. Then he’ll be in ICU for a least twenty-four hours so we can monitor him. After that, he should be able to be moved to a regular room for another five to six days before discharge.”
“Will you be handling his case even after he’s moved to a regular room?” She chewed the corner of her lip and glanced in Dad’s direction. She only wanted the best for him, and having Colin around bolstered her confidence that Dad was getting the best care possible.
He gave her a reassuring smile. “Yes. I’m not restricted to the ICU, so I’m part of his care team while he’s in the hospital, which means you can’t get rid of me that easily.”
“Anna, it’s your turn to see Dad.”
“Oh.” She tossed a look to Tessa as she rushed from the room. Over her shoulder, she said, “I’ll be right out.”
Liza and Leo stepped from the elevator as she hurried by.
“Hey, Anna, where’s Mom?”
She jerked a thumb at the waiting room. “In there.”
Colin walked next to her as she made her way to her dad. Her heart was heavy in her chest and her footsteps became lead weights as she approached him. Despite what was ahead of him, Dad greeted her with a tired smile.
“Anna.”
“Hey, Dad.”
He gave Colin a quizzical look. “Do I have to go down already?”
“No, Sam. I just came in with your daughter.”
She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. “I love you, Dad, and I’ll see you in a little while.” She blinked away the tears that formed before she walked out of the unit. She was overwhelmed. Despite what she had said to her mom earlier, this was very serious.
4
The digital numbers on Anna’s watch clicked in triple slow motion. Dad had been taken into surgery six hours ago. Colin walked into the waiting room and Anna got to her feet so quickly, the chair crashed against the wall.
“What’s going on? It’s been hours since you’ve given us an update.” She could hear the accusatory tone in her voice. Like Colin was the reason things had taken so long.
“I’m sorry. I got called away for an emergency.” Colin sat next to Mom. “Mrs. Price, I’ve just come up from the recovery room, where your husband is resting comfortably. Dr. Thomas was called into an emergency and asked for me to let you know the surgery was more complicated than he had anticipated but feels confident your husband will have a complete recovery. He’ll be up to see you as soon as he can, but he didn’t want you to have to wait unnecessarily for an update.”
Mom clutched the front of her sweater. “When can I see him?”
“He’ll be brought up in about an hour. Once his nurses get him settled, you can see him for a few minutes.”
Anna watched as he looked around at the rest of the family, who were uncharacteristically silent.
“Does anyone have any specific questions?”
She asked, “Can we see him tonight or would it be better to wait until tomorrow?”
“I’ll defer to your mother. He will be sleeping, so if you want to see him, you can, but he more than likely won’t know you’re there.”
Anna knelt next to Mom. “I’ll wait to take you home.”
She shook her head. “I’m not leaving. You can all go home and I’ll call if there are any changes.”
Anna swiveled toward Colin. “Do you think we should stay?”
“Honestly, there won’t be much you can do tonight, so getting a good night’s rest is the best thing you can do for your parents.”
“What about Mom?”
“I’ll find a sleep chair to put next to your dad’s bed.” Colin looked at Mom. “You’d rest better in your own bed. ICU is pretty noisy.”
She shook her head and rose to her feet, her lips in a thin, determined line. “I’m not going anywhere until I know Sam is out of danger.”
Anna gave Colin an apologetic smile. “She’s hardheaded.”
He seemed to have to tear his eyes away from Anna—or was that her wishful thinking?—and said, “I understand. Mrs. Price, let me check with the recovery room and see if they’re still on schedule.”
