Page 87 of A Change Of Heart
"Keep us posted because even if Gabrielle has his best interests at heart, the nursing staff will try to get rid of him as soon as they can."Jason spoke calmly."Don't lose hope.If they do release him, which is in their rights, he could still go about this the proper way.They could skip the testing to see if he's a match and start from there."
Heulyn sighed."That would take time that we don't have.Nicole is weaker by the day."
"Yes, but the doctors would realize this and speed up the process, we hope.Just keep the faith and be strong for her, she'll need it."
"I know, Jason.When I got home last night, she cried in my arms, but they were tears of joy and hope.Together, all of us will make this happen."
***
"Okay, now that we’reofficially off for the whole day what should we do?"Stephanie walked her fingers up his arm with a naughty grin.
"Woman.You are insatiable.Not that I'm complaining."
"You forget.I lived like a nun for the past eleven years."She nibbled his shoulder and he turned giving her a kiss.A thorough one that curled her toes.
"How about if we go out for breakfast and then take a long walk somewhere?I'm stuck inside days at a time, and the sky looks clear.Let's take advantage of it."
"Perfect."Jason gave her a hug."I don't get out all that often either.”
They took a shower together, with no monkey business, just a few unintentional meetings of their body parts.They dressed, her in her scratchy Christmas sweater and Jason in an undershirt, followed by a soft cashmere pullover.When she couldn't stop touching it, he took it off and gave it to her.She dumped the ugly top in the trash and chose one of his warm, cozy sweatshirts, a royal blue for him to wear over his tee.
“Let’s try new things today,” Steph suggested.
“Sure.Where do you want to start?”
"Breakfast?And we have to order something we've never had before."
They had their breakfast at a dine-in restaurant and after staring at the menu for some time, they each found a dish they'd never tried.Jason chose a spinach and mushroom quiche, and Stephanie had an enormous plate of French toast loaded with strawberries and blueberries, syrup, and whipped cream.
Eating half, she pushed the plate over to Jason.They used to share meals all the time, partially because they didn't have much money, but also because they enjoyed it.
Bite by bite, and much laughter mixed with a healthy dose of desire, they were done with breakfast, and on to making plans for the rest of the day.
When they reached her car, Jason grabbed her hand and spun her around, ending up chest to chest.He gave her a light kiss then asked, "So, something outdoors.Any suggestions?"
"I've got an idea.I really haven't explored Albany much.Can you think of anything special to show me?A park, a lake, a zoo?"
"I know a place that has all three.It's Albany's Central Park. I've heard of it, but haven't been there myself.Not much fun going there alone."
"Sounds wonderful.I'd love it!"
"Then off we go, young lady.To another great adventure and another first.”
“I like being around you, Jason Monroe.Like we were years ago."
They had driven out of the parking lot and were on their way to the park when Heulyn called again.
Jason sighed."Hope it's just good news."
Stephanie slowed the car down and turned off the radio.
“Hello, Heu What's up?”Jason smiled at her and reached out his hand.She took it, hoping they could have this one day together.
"You need to get here fast.Henry's barricaded himself in his room and won't let anyone in.The security guards are here, the medical staff.All hell's breaking loose."
Jason moaned.Then he cursed."We need to turn around.Henry's created chaos at the hospital and might be arrested."
"Oh crap!What has he done now?"Stephanie pulled the car to the side of the road and spun the wheels in the snow, eager to get back quick.They made it in less than thirty minutes and left the car with valet.When Jason had the ticket they raced inside and up to the sixth floor.
