“Itisgood news,” he agrees. “They started weaning her off the medicine on Tuesday, and she opened her eyes yesterday. She hasn’t said much, but she’s shown signs that she knows who she is and recognizes her family. They’re still monitoring her of course, but so far, all signs are looking good. They imagine she’ll have to go through quite a bit of physical and occupational therapy and possibly speech therapy.”
“Oh, thank god. I’m sure Rosie is just beside herself with joy. If you talk to them,” I say, swallowing thickly, “will you please tell them how glad I am?”
“Aye, ‘course I will,” he says genuinely. “Listen, I won’t keep you, but I wanted to relay the information and see if you’d like to meet us at O’Nelly’s tomorrow night. I know Friday nights are crazy, but Layla and the girls will be there. And Paddy’s been asking about you.”
I flinch. I miss Paddy like crazy, but I’ve been avoiding anything and anyone that reminds me of Eamon. O’Nelly’s being the biggest.
“I don’t know, Teag. I’ll think about it, okay?”
“Sure. I understand,” he says compassionately, “but, Norah, lass? I really think you ought to join us. It will do you good.”
I’m not used to Teagan being so forthright, especially with me. He’s always kept things lighthearted. “Uh…okay. I’ll stop by for a bit. Just long enough to say hi to everyone,” I concede.
“Atta girl! You’ll make Paddy’s night! The old codger has been downright cranky lately.”
I chuckle, picturing Paddy as anything but jovial. “Well, that’s unacceptable. Can’t have him grumpy.”
“Too right,” Teagan says. “Alright, I’ll talk to you later, Norah.”
I end the call, feeling confused about the whole conversation. I text Layla.
Norah:Hey, Teagan just called me with an update on Caity. She’s awake. He also said you’re all getting together at O’Nelly’s tomorrow night?
Layla:Oh, thank God! How is she doing? Yes, just a few drinks at the pub. Nothing big. We miss you.
Norah:I didn’t get a lot of details, but her memory seems to be okay. Which ishuge. I told him I’d be there for a bit, but I don’t know if I’ll keep my word or not. I miss you girls and Paddy, but I’m not sure if I’m ready to go back there yet.
Layla:I get it. But just…try? For me?
Norah:I’ll try.
I sit, staring out the window for a long time, debating on if I should reach out to Eamon. Just to see how Caity is doing. But even bringing his name up in a blank message has my heart cracking. I eventually decide against it. Hopefully, Teagan will have more information tomorrow.
* * *
Friday arrives with dark skies and steady rain. My mood matches the weather. I spent a couple of hours working on sketches and compiling a list of supplies for the spring production. Once I’m satisfied that I’m off to a good start, I set my sketchpad aside and reach for my coffee. Curling up in my chair, I stare out the window and watch the rain pour down, wrap both hands around my mug, and wage war with my thoughts. I told Teagan and Layla I’d be at O’Nelly’s tonight, but I just don’t think I can do it. The thought of getting dressed and interacting with everyone exhausts me down to my bones. I want nothing more than to hide in my house and do nothing. Decision made, I text the group.
Norah:Hey, girls, I’m not feeling up to coming out tonight. I’m sorry. Rain check?
Amelia:What?! No way! Just come for a little bit! One drink!
Myra:Norie, I’m all for a good pity party, but you NEED to join us!
Norah:Girls, you know I love you, but I don’t think I can do it.
Myra:If you don’t come willingly, I will drag my pregnant ass to your house and get you.
Amelia:Same! Just not the pregnant part!
Norah:You two are impossible. Can we do it another time? Please?
I don’t get a response after that, which doesn’t bode well. If they are serious about coming to get me, I’m just going to have to put my foot down. I’m not going out tonight, and that’s final. Feeling proud of my resolve, Ireward myself with a long, hot bath followed by an Outlander marathon.
The rain finally lets up, and I’m in the middle of watching Claire and Jamie’s wedding when my front door bursts open, and a pregnant Myra and not-pregnant Amelia saunter in.
“Get up! Get dressed! You’re coming with us!”
I groan and throw the blanket I was snuggled under over my head. Clearly, my prayers of my friendsnotcoming for me are going unanswered. “Go away,” I mutter.
