by TC Rybicki
The Littlefields had all come together. Everyone was staying close by since the doctors warned Josie had a long recovery ahead. Most everyone stayed at the bed-and-breakfast now, but Sydney and Marlene always refused to go home more than a few hours. She barely ever left that hospital. I was determined to get her out of there, maybe take her to a decent place for dinner. I was pissed when I realized Dad had done the same for Marlene a couple of times.
I knocked on Josie’s door. I’d only been in a couple of times when she was sleeping, so she and I hadn’t officially talked. Sydney made a point to text to tell me her Gram wanted to speak to the man that kissed her back to life.
She was back. Even I was blushing at that thought.
“Come in, Mr. Ellsworth. It’s about time you came to check on me.”
Sydney corrected her. “Gram, Dane’s been here almost every day.”
“I know. I’m just teasing, but I’m surprised your Poppa beat you to it.”
“Dad’s been by?”
“Yes, he brought me a decent cup of coffee one morning even if it was decaf. He and I made peace. I told him never threaten my Sydney again, stay out your relationship and leave my home alone.”
“Gram. Mr. Ellsworth and I are fine now. You didn’t have to do that.”
“You look great Josie, honest. That day. Well, let’s just say I’ve never been more scared in my life.”
“You stayed calm though. Gram, Dane was amazing. His father too. They saved you.”
“I know, child. That’s why I’d like to speak to Dane in private if you wouldn’t mind.”
Sydney didn’t seem so sure. Josie and I had plenty of conversations without her. I gave her something to do. “Would you mind grabbing me a root beer and those crackers I like?”
“Why sure, Dane. I’ll run a nonsense errand for you, so you and my grandmother can talk about me behind my back.”
Josie might have raised her blood pressure when she clapped her hands at Sydney. “Everything’s not always about you. Now get.”
I laughed. It felt nice to laugh with Josie. Several days passed that I wasn’t sure this would ever be a possibility again.
“Okay, let’s talk about her before she gets back. I’m about to give Sydney some important news. She’s going to need support. I wanted to remind you not to give up on her. She’s convinced herself all this mess from the past will follow you both into the future and it’s sheer nonsense. I’m prepared to knock some sense into her, finally. I’ve been telling her since the beginning to build up that confidence because I knew what was coming. She’s not quite there. That’s where you come in. I doubted you at first, Dane. Cora told me you were worthy that I was wrong to compare you to Paul.”
“I appreciate that Josie, but right now Syd only wants to focus on you and I respect that. She’s keeping me at arm’s length and it bothered me at me at first, but I understand.”
“Well, don’t be so understanding that she slips through your fingers. I know what it’s like to get it right only to lose it.”
“Sydney says things with Roy are promising. He’s getting to know your kids again and visiting you often. Any chance you’ll let him stay on? Maybe you only lost it temporarily.”
“That ain’t up to me.”
“Of course, it is. You run The Groves.”
“Dane, these health improvements are temporary. My doctors don’t mince words. Maybe I make it home, maybe not, but nothing will be the same. I’m on borrowed time.”
I swallowed my next words. I wanted to accuse her of being grim when it wasn’t necessary, but Josie wasn’t dramatic like Sydney. She said what she meant, and I saw something in her eyes. She knew her time was limited. Sydney was going to be devastated. I hoped Josie made it home and we had longer with her than she predicted. She looked on the mend, but I remember hearing the doctors once. It was like Josie’s heart had a constant virus with the myocarditis.
Sydney busted in about that time. “My, my, isn’t it quiet in here? You two look guilty as hell. Well, you can forget it. I’m used to this foldout bed and I’m not going home until Gram comes with me. And no, I haven’t lost weight again. I mean, maybe five pounds, and I know I’m not working technically, but I’ll make it up. I swear, Gram so if you were twisting Dane’s arm to tell me what to do, that doesn’t work. Dane can’t tell me what to do.”
I reached for Josie’s hand and squeezed. “She doesn’t suspect a thing.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Oh, I don’t know. Josie said she’s not so sure you deserve these lifesaving lips anymore. She and I were talking about running away together. That’s why we wanted to get rid of you, Syd. No one’s talking about where you sleep or how much you’re not eating.”
“You, stupid jerk. You’re not good enough for my Gram.”
I leaned in and kissed Josie’s forehead. It was hard to keep up the ruse that we were only kidding around in here. She was still in a delicate condition, and I was worried I might not see her again. “She’s right Josie, and I’m no match for Roy. He’d fight me for you, I’m sure.”
“Shut that crazy talk. That man couldn’t fight himself out of a wet paper bag, and he and I aren’t like that anymore. He’s my children’s father and my friend. Thanks for bringing him back to us. I doubt I would have made contact if you hadn’t brought up that title business and it would have been my biggest regret.”
I’m glad my discovery helped. “Regrets are a terrible thing. Isn’t that right, Sydney?”
Our eyes connected. It was the longest she’d looked at me since the night I stayed in the motel with her. Sydney looked back and forth between Josie and me. She slightly nodded her head. “I’ll call you later.”
“I hope so. I’m always available for you… for both of you.”
I shut the door, but heard Josie say one more thing, “Don’t you dare mess up and lose that man. He’s irreplaceable.”
“I mean it, child. You don’t want to lose Dane Ellsworth.”
“Gram. You had me convinced you were practical. Do you secretly read tawdry romance novels? It’s not the right time for Dane and I. Too much has happened. I’m not trying to lose him, but I am tapped out, and our families’ skeletons each have extra skeletons in their closets. Maybe we were doomed since the first day.”
“Doomed? Horseshit. I know what you’re thinking. And there’s no such things as curses.”
“Are you sure? Because the Ellsworth/Littlefield combination appears cursed to me. That is why I would prefer to end things on a peaceful note with Dane. I want to remember him fondly not with hatred, and right now, he and I are still friends. I can’t live in a world where Dane hates me.”
“I never hated Shep.”
“Well, Irene hated you and Mom, and look what that did.”
“For the last time, separate yourself from all our past mistakes before it’s too late.”
“I think it already is. Besides, Dane expected everything from me even from the very beginning. I think it’s the age difference. I have plenty of growing up to do.”
“Nonsense, you’re more mature than you give yourself credit for and I’ve never seen two people more suited or in love than you and Dane.”
“Marlene and Paul were pretty epic lovers.”
“Nope, not the same. I witnessed both relationships first hand. Look, I tire easily so before I run out of steam, I have some important things to share. There’s one thing I need you to understand. The true reason the other relationships failed is as plain as the nose on your face. All that had to happen, or you and Dane wouldn’t be here. You two are the ones meant to be. I know this.”
“How do you know?”
“The Lord spoke to me.”
“Seriously, Gram? You don’t believe in curses, but God took time out of his busy schedule to tell you about Dane and me?”
“You’re skating close to the edge of blasphemy.”
“I’m sorry. You know I don’t mean disrespect. So, what was it
, a near-death experience or a dream?”
“It ain’t explained in words, but I know this, and I have never been much on fluff and romance, so the answer is heck no about the romance novels. I prefer a good mystery or thriller. I loved once and lost. My heart hardened, and I poured what was left of me into my work which was only second to my children. Once they were grown, it was all work. When you moved in the first week of summer, I took stock in my life, and I remembered there are more important things than business. You were good for this old woman. I need you to know that.”
“Oh Gram, that’s so touching. I thought I was on your nerves more than anything, but you’ve taught me so much. I’m forever grateful. Before we get stuck on my love life, I’m thrilled you and Grandfather seem happy now. Maybe he’ll stay. Mom’s begging him.”
“I’m happy he and I made peace, and he is with the children. Hopefully, he’ll be a comfort.”
“Comfort?”
“Sydney. Are you going to promise me you’ll consider the words I said about you and Dane?”
“Yes, of course, I will. I’m not going to lie and say I’m not in love with him. But I’m more concerned with you. Love is on the back-burner.”
“Well, I am going to need your word you’ll give him your attention and time. He is going to be a source of support.”
“Okay Gram, I’m not forgetting about Dane. But come on, you need to focus on your recovery.” Two words stood out: support and comfort.
“Honey, I’m so thankful for these extra days. Make no mistake, I ain’t giving up, but you’ve listened to the doctors’ report. My body spends more time fighting itself than healing. Let’s be practical.”
“You’re a miracle. One doctor said so.”
Gram took my hand. “There’s nothing wrong with hope, but I need to get my affairs in order. I’ve spoken to Mark, RJ, and Marlene. They’re all in agreement. The Groves is yours and rightly so. No one else cares about it as much as you and me.”
For a second, her statement didn’t even register. “What?”
“No one expects you to know everything right away. I only ask that you keep my staff, maybe give the Romero girl a promotion so she doesn’t wear herself out in that bar at night. Also, your cousin Julian said he might like to stay on through a season and get in touch with his roots. Don’t think I’m not being fair to the rest of the family. I’ve made wise investments. Everyone will have a decent inheritance.”
“Gram stop this. I mean, I’d be honored one day to run the place, but not now. I’m not ready, and you’re still here. Stop talking like you’re dying.”
“I am.”
“No, you’re not.”
“We’re all dying, but some faster than others. It’s up to us to make the best of the time we have whether it’s eighty years or eight minutes. Sitting here passing my life’s work to you is a great way to spend my time since I’m trapped in this bed.”
I couldn’t let her continue. I leaned over my grandmother, so my cheek was pressed against her opposite one. Josie Littlefield would never back down from a challenge so what was this? She was better each day. I would never accept these were her last days. I wanted years more. If she expected me to run her business and the bed-and-breakfast, I was going to have to insist she get well. Gram’s faith was strong. If God talked to her about my boyfriend, then she needed to send up extra prayers to stay with her family. We all needed her.
She rubbed her hand over my hair several passes. “I’m not giving up. I’d love to hold a great-grandchild, sit on the porch swing with my daughter once more, visit my son’s final resting place, or watch a sunset with my entire family around me, but Sydney I was dead on the bedroom floor a week ago. I was given this gift of a little extra time. I’ve never been one to ask for more than I deserve.”
“I love The Groves. It will continue to thrive. That’s my promise.” I knew I’d never be as good as Gram, but I’d never stop trying. I’d been telling myself each day, she was getting better, but now that I was so close, I stared into her faded blue eyes. I saw myself, my actual reflection, also our similarities, and maybe some of our differences. Then I saw something else- Gram was tired, so tired despite being in bed for days.
My phone buzzed from my pocket, and I was relieved for a distraction. If I kept looking at her, I was going to break down, and Gram wouldn’t like that.
I held the phone up to pass on Dane’s message. “Hey, Dane’s coming back with some food. He said he saw what dinner was when he was leaving, and you deserve better than that.”
“Tell him to bring us some enchiladas.”
“Oh, my goodness. I’ll have to check with the nurses first. You might not be ready for all that.”
Dane spoke up. “Tell her one enchilada dinner coming up.”
Dane breezed in half an hour later with his hands full and two nurses on his heels. I didn’t know why they needed to follow him so close. “Is there a problem? My Gram would really like some regular food tonight.”
“Of course not, hun. We were just curious. Dane has the entire floor drooling.”
Did he now? I was immediately annoyed and why did they call him Dane like he was on a first name basis with these bubblehead masochists in scrubs. I frowned. Dane flashed his wicked grin, and his dimple appeared. No, that’s my dimple and wasn’t meant to be shared with people that didn’t matter. Those two nurses couldn’t take their eyes off it. They stood there giggling to each other.
“Is there something else? Does Gram need her vitals checked?”
“No, the med-aide will be in an hour. Mrs. Littlefield, there’s a little ruckus out there now that everyone knows who has the key to Dane’s heart. We’re so jealous.”
“Well, don’t hold a grudge for me. That’s my granddaughter over there, and she’s the only one with the keys.”
I busied myself with the bags to sort out the food in hopes I disappeared into the ugly tan walls, but that was impossible. I’d never wear tan. I could sense these bitches looking me over. What the hell was their deal? I’d met a hundred nurses this week and barely remembered any by name, but these random ninnies acted like Dane was their buddy. That’s it. They were getting the back off my man glare from me. I twisted around with my resting bitch face primed and ready.
Dane didn’t give me the satisfaction because he stepped in front of me. “Thanks, Kelly, Marin. Sorry, I didn’t know you two were on tonight or I’d brought extra.”
“Rain check?”
“Sure.”
I was ready to say something about their unprofessionalism when Dane touched my mouth with his finger. “Not the time for a rude assessment about their appearance.”
“I wasn’t going to say anything about that wretched hair clip, orange eyeshadow or the other one’s tight bun that makes her look like a ballerina reject. I was just going to ask if I could have a nice dinner in peace with my Gram.”
Dane brushed my hair behind my ear which I hated, and he knew it. “Sure, you were. Do you really want to insult the people taking care of Josie? Ignore them, please.”
Gram cleared her throat. “They’re right about one thing. These smell scrumptious. Chicken enchiladas always hits the spot. Have a seat you two. Dig in because it’s no fun eating alone.”
I’d lost my appetite. It was an emotional hour and I had so much pent of frustration, I could scream at the top of my lungs. I stayed quiet but needed to be normal for my Gram.
“I got you and Josie chicken, but I have the beef if you want to sample some.”
“No thanks, chicken’s fine.”
“Did you and Josie have a nice afternoon?”
I couldn’t say it out loud. Yes and no. All moments spent with Gram were precious but hearing her insist they were also coming to an end crushed me inside. I didn’t want it to be true, but Gram always insisted I be more realistic. I needed to step up if she put all her faith and trust in my new abilities. I softly sighed. Dane nodded just enough as if to say he knew. “So, I’m sure Gram would love
to hear a funny story. How did you become the cardiac care floor’s unofficial mascot? ‘Oh, Dane. We’re drooling… over you, no silly me, I meant your food.’”
Gram put her fork down to take a sip of water. “Dane doesn’t have to say a thing, you’re making me laugh plenty, Sydney. Such a jealous hoot, isn’t she Dane?”
“I’m not jealous.”
“Of course not.” Dane dug into his food and exchanged a few looks with Gram. “Because Sydney and I are just friends now, so we’re free to see other people.”
“Wait a damn minute. Nothing’s finalized. You’re supposed to be giving me time while I focus on Gram. I never told you to pick up nurses for your hidden fantasies.”
“Oh, well, I interpreted it as a break. My bad, but the nurse fantasy has always been a good one.”
“What did you do bad?”
“Nothing. Eat your food. You wouldn’t want it to get cold.”
“Answer the question. Why are you on a first name basis with the nurses?”
“Maybe because I’ve been here for days on end, and most of the time the family was with Josie, so I roamed the halls. You know I don’t do well sitting still and I’m friendly, Sydney. That’s why you and I hit it off. Remember?”
“No, it’s not, and we didn’t exactly hit it off.”
I was tempted to stand up to knock that smirk off his face. Gram pretended to ignore us, but she was hanging on every word.
He was having a little too much fun provoking me, and it was a nice reminder of a simpler time. Gram suggested Dane take me on a walk for some fresh air. “Are you kidding me right now? You were never subtle that’s for sure.”
“A walk sounds lovely, doesn’t it, princess?”
“Then take one. I can’t leave Gram.”
“Yes, you can. It was my idea. I need some peace and quiet for my food to digest.”
“It’s time to get you settled down for the night and visiting hours are over Dane.”
“Sure. I’m not one to break the rules. I enjoyed the company as always Josie. Sleep well.”
“Not in this place. They poke and prod me every few hours. Sydney gets woken up too. Look at her. She’s exhausted. I sure wish you’d take her home tonight.”
