Page 69 of Wild Card
“And so handsome.”
“Yeah, handsome… he’s HOT, Grandma, you can say it.”
She smiles wide, smoothing some lotion on my face. “You’re already glowing brighter.”
I get up slowly, thankful no dizziness hits. My color isn’t normal, but it’s much better and the blotching has subsided.
She hands me my toothbrush and stands close as I brush my teeth, making sure I stay steady. “All good.” I give her a thumbs up. “Did you happen to grab any mascara?”
“Bex probably did.” She rummages through the bag and hands over a tube.
“Bex packed my bag?”
“Talon left your place in a rush, and we all wanted to come to the hospital. Chase called her to close up your house. She thought to pack the bag. The only reason she isn’t here now is because she went to get Wyatt. None of us wanted to leave.”
Bex went to get Wyatt? There are so many questions in this fact, but I don’t pry.
“Your nurse wants you to put this on.”
I cringe at the dingy hospital gown she’s holding.
“Yeah, I didn’t think so either. Bex brought you these.” She holds up a short pajama set. “Not sure this is appropriate, but it’s our only choice.”
“It’ll have to do.” I wait for her to leave but she just turns her back.
When I’m changed, she opens the door and Talon is in my space instantly. He carries me back to the bed, tucking me in.
“I’ll go find the men. Take care of her, Talon.”
“Always, Rosie.”
Her gaze turns thoughtful and she shoots him a soft grin.
“Rosie? You know my grandma’s nickname?”
“We had time to get to know each other.”
“How long was I asleep?”
“A while.” His eyes roam over me, his hand caressing my cheek. “How do you feel?”
“Better? Drained, but refreshed—if that makes sense.”
“Your throat?”
“Sore, but bearable.”
“Why don’t you take a break from talking?”
“Thank you,” I mouth.
“You do know the words.” His teasing doesn’t quite reach his eyes.
I edge over, motioning for him to sit. He leans on his side, his thumb running across the edge of my mouth. Slowly, he leans in and sweeps his lips over mine, careful of my cut.
“Time is up, Willow. I met with Abe today and he released me on your recommendation. What happened to you is a reminder that life is fragile and unpredictable. You can fight all you want, but I’m done waiting.”
It’s insane how his abrupt statement sends a swarm of flutters raving around my stomach. The intensity in his gaze travels through me, and I grip his wrist, locking our eyes.
