“Yeah, it’s kind of weird.”
“Huh. Maybe she’s decided she wants a better life.”
Janelle sighed. “Perhaps. All I know is Dad seems pissed off by the changes in her. He’s twice as moody. Wouldn’t you think he’d be glad she’s getting her act together?”
“That is odd,” I muttered. “Maybe it’s simply that the dynamic has shifted, and he’s not comfortable with that yet.”
“Maybe.” She didn’t look convinced.
I cleared my throat. “So, back to your situation. Do you have anyone who would help you? I know youare financially set, but if you decide to keep the child, you’ll need emotional support.”
Her cheeks tinted pink. “I have Kobe.”
“Is that a good thing?”
“It is. He’s been wonderful. It’s like, he’s the Kobe I knew in the beginning. When he’s like he is now, I can’t remember why we ever broke up.”
“I’m glad, Janelle.” I really was happy for her. Kobe was definitely smitten with her, and she absolutely needed someone in her life who put her first. Hopefully, Kobe wouldn’t fall off the wagon and screw everything up again.
“Now that I don’t care what my parents think, I think Kobe feels happier. I used to let their toxic opinions taint how I saw Kobe.” She winced. “I’ve grown up a lot, Dr. Thornton.”
“You truly have.” I hesitated. “Does Kobe know you might be carrying Archie’s baby?”
The pink returned to her cheeks. “Yes. He says he’s fine with helping me raise Archie’s child. I… I was so scared to tell him, but he was so nice and loving about it.”
“That’s great.”
And surprising.
She gave an embarrassed laugh. “He’s being so perfect, and I’m not even sleeping with him yet.”
“Then it must be true love.” I smirked.
She grinned. “Right?”
“Well, let me draw some blood, and we’ll go from there.” I grabbed another pair of gloves and went to get things I’d need to take her blood. “If you are pregnant, you’re not very far along. You still have time to make your decision, Janelle.”
She allowed a sweet smile. “If I am pregnant, I think maybe I will keep the baby. After talking with you, I’m feeling more optimistic.”
I raised my brows. “Really?”
She laughed at my surprised expression. “Sure. I always feel better after talking to you, Dr. Thornton.”
“Uh… oh. Well, that’s certainly nice to hear.” I laughed self-consciously. It was so rare I got a compliment I felt a bit flustered.
“I need to be sure you stay in Rainy Dale. With this stupid recall election, I’m worried if Sheriff Callum doesn’t win, he’ll leave Rainy Dale. It might be too painful for him to stay. I get the feeling you’ll go wherever he goes.”
“He has to win,” I murmured.
“I agree. I’m definitely voting for Sheriff Callum, and I’ve convinced all my friends to do the same.” She scowled. “I’m going to do everything in my power to help him win. Including going head-to-head with my crazy, greedy parents.”
I couldn’t help smiling at her. “You’re a very determined young lady.”
“That I am.” She held out her arm. “Now, take my blood, Doc.”
I laughed and grabbed the needle. Somehow, I’d bumbled into an actual friendship with Janelle Raiden. In doing so, I’d accidentally gained a formidable ally. I hoped her backing was enough to tip the scales in Royce’s direction because she was right: wherever Royce went, I would go.
And, as shocking as it was, I didn’t actually want to leave Rainy Dale.
