Page 85 of Maverick

Rationally, I'm aware that I chose this, but today, feeling awful and grumpy, it sucks.

When the alarm blares, I force my heavy eyelids open. Every movement is a struggle as I drag myself out of bed and pull on clothes. My arms feel like they're made of lead. If anything, I feel worse than this morning.

I shuffle towards the front door, ready to head back to the rescue, when I'm startled by a hand on my arm. Maverick's there, way earlier than I expected. And Nan's right beside him, concern etched on her face. I didn't hear them coming.

"Honey, you look awful," Nan says, moving towards me.

I hold up a hand, backing away. "No, stay back. I can't risk you getting sick."

Maverick steps forward, his brow furrowed. "What's going on, Cady?"

"Nan's immune system," I rasp, my throat on fire. "The chemo and radiation... she's vulnerable. She can't get sick."

Understanding dawns in Maverick's eyes. He nods, then says firmly, "I get it. But there's no way you're going to the rescue like this."

"I have to," I argue weakly. "The animals-"

Before I can finish, Maverick scoops me up in his arms. I'm too weak to put up much of a fight as he carries me back to bed. God, if only I felt better, I could appreciate this.

Well, okay, I appreciate it now. But if I were feeling better, I would wind my arms around his neck, and pull his lips down to mine.

I’m breathing hard when he sets me down, but thankfully he isn’t.So strong. I try to get up again, but he gently pushes me back with a hand planted in the middle of my chest.

Apparently, my hormones aren’t as sick as the rest of me, because they stand up and start urging Mav to slide his hand a little over, until I can feel his hand on my breast.

"You're not going anywhere," he says, his voice gentle but brooking no argument. "It's not safe for you or the animals. I'll handle things at the rescue."

"But-" I start to protest, but exhaustion is already pulling me under. My eyelids grow heavy, and I can feel myself drifting off even as I try to argue.

28

MAVERICK

Ican't breathe. The walls are closing in. Cadence's pale face flashes before my eyes, morphing into my mother's gaunt features. My heart races, pounding against my ribcage like it's trying to escape.

A firm grip on my arm yanks me out of Cadence's room. Nan's weathered face comes into focus, her eyes sharp with concern.

"Breathe, boy. What's got you so spooked?"

"It's so stupid. It's nothing. She'll be fine, right? Right?"

Nan's expression softens. She guides me to the couch, her hand a steady pressure on my back. "Cadence is strong, Maverick. It's likely just a nasty cold."

I nod, not trusting my voice. Nan continues, her tone gentle but firm. "She's got you looking out for her. And plenty of help on speed dial."

The knot in my chest loosens slightly. Nan's right. We have resources, doctors on speed dial. This isn't the same. My mom wasn't actually sick. Not like Cadence. But the last time I got to see her face, lying on that hospital bed, flashes through my mind.

"Right now," Nan says, "what's eating at her most is worry for those dogs. You want to help? Make sure her rescue babies are taken care of."

Of course. The rescue. Cadence would drag herself there over hot coals if that's what it took to take care of them. I stand, purpose flooding through me.

"I'll handle the rescue. Everything. She doesn't have to worry a bit."

She pats my cheek, a glimmer of approval in her eyes. "That's the ticket, son. Now go on. Get to it."

I pull out my phone, already dialing as I head for the door. Time to rally the troops and make sure Cadence doesn't have a thing to think about except getting better. Nick picks up on the second ring.

"Hey, man. I need you at the rescue ASAP. Cadence is sick, and the dogs need feeding."

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