Page 82 of Love's Cure

“Right,” said Emmett. “I just want to help you and see you happy, Mom. The first step is getting and keeping sober.”

Natalie nodded and let out a long sigh. “I’ve known for some time that things would have to change. I just couldn’t face what it would mean.” She turned to Crystal. “I’ve underestimated you. It took guts to come here and tell your story after all the disrespect and hostility I’ve shown you.”

“I’ve been ashamed of my past,” said Crystal. “But it’s all part of how the disease can affect everyone.”

“But you’ve risen above it,” said Natalie. “I admire you for that.” She turned to Emmett and her shoulders slumped. “Help me get ready, and we’ll go.”

“While you do that, I’ll stay with Eloise,” said Crystal.

She left Natalie’s room and went to find Eloise. “Mind if I wait here while Natalie gets ready to leave?”

“Not at all. I couldn’t help overhearing some things. What’s going on?”

Crystal filled her in.

“I’m glad Nat will get some help. Her drinking has continued to worsen. When I heard about last night, I knew it was time for her to get help. Emmett, bless his heart, is the only one who could convince her of it. And now, he has you to help, too.”

“How long has she been staying here?” Crystal asked.

“Five days and counting,” said Eloise. “It was getting more and more difficult to be with her. Natalie’s already had a couple of Bloody Marys this morning.”

“I understand. If she’ll work the program, she can get better. I hope she’ll decide to do it. The first step is having her talk to the staff at the rehab center.”

“Natalie is lucky to have a son like Emmett. And they’re both lucky to have you in their lives. I had no idea Emmett was engaged.”

Crystal held up her bare left hand. “We’re not engaged. We’re just getting serious enough to consider it. I want to be sure not to pressure Emmett. He’s busy getting a new medical practice going.”

“I know you’re from Lilac Lake. What do you do there?” asked Eloise.

“I own the Lilac Lake Café,” Crystal said proudly, realizing again how far she’d come from the little girl who’d always felt as if the world was on her shoulders. If GG and others in the community hadn’t helped her, where would she be?

That thought stayed with her as Crystal waved goodbye to Emmett and Natalie at Jerry and Lance’s house. Emotionally exhausted, she went inside and lay down on her bed.

Her thoughts whirled. It had taken a crisis for Emmett and her to be able to define their true feelings for one another. She let her mind float back to the moment Emmett had said he was in love with her. They were such sweet words.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

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