Page 9 of Always Mine

“Twice a day for a while to clean and dress it.”

“How long is recuperation?”

“I’m not sure. I’ll need sponge baths for several days. Not taking a shower will kill me.”

“Aw…”

“Unless you want to give me the baths.”

“Diego,” she said, trying to sound stern. “I’ll leave if you keep talking like that.”

“Okay. My stitches will dissolve on their own. I’ll need ice frequently.”

“How long before you’ll have use of your arm?”

“I have no idea. A PT is coming in today to talk to me about that. Now, can we change the subject from me?”

“Tell me about the girls. I met them here a few days ago, but we didn’t have a chance to talk.”

“Would you hand me that glass first so I can have a sip of water.”

“Sure.” Though she didn’t want to be that close to him. But she moved in. She heard the background noise of a hospital: phones ringing, PA announcements, people hurrying past, but Diego’s closeness encompassed her.

When he finished, he said, “Thanks.” Their hands brushed and Annie felt it in her toes. But she got out, “The girls?”

“Sofia left the classroom and became an administrator. Now, she’s a principal at our old high school.”

“I heard that.”

“Sara’s a stay-at-home mom. She loves it but they worry about money. And Elena’s started a daycare. She’s perfect for it.”

“All very successful. I’m glad.”

“Now tell me about yours.”

Annie filled him in on her big family—her dad’s retirement, her three brothers and two sisters.

“I always loved your big family.” A cute smile broached his face. “All boisterous and messy. It was great.”

“They loved you, too.” He held her gaze. “Ialways loved you.”

She stood. “Okay, if you can’t refrain from romantic stuff, I’m leaving.”

Managing to grab her hand, he said, “Please. Don’t leave me alone now. Like I told you, you’re keeping the nightmares away.”

She sat and sighed. “You’re incorrigible.”

“So you always said.”

Annie stayed until he fell asleep. She’d just gotten to the door when she heard behind her, “No, no, it can’t be. Stop, stop.” She turned. His head jerked wildly, and his features contorted. He kicked his legs.

Rushing back to the bed, she leaned over. “Diego, wake up.”

He mumbled in Spanish but didn’t come to.

She shook him this time. Nothing. She tried putting her head on his chest. “It’s me, Annie. I’m here. Please wake up.”

That did the trick. He roused. She drew back. His eyes were wide and fearful.

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