Page 107 of The Two Last Moments

When I walk into the kitchen, Aiden, Mateo, and Quinn are chatting quietly with their heads together. The two men look up, and Quinn dashes over to me. She’s got her arms open, and I sink immediately into her embrace. I could get used to all these hugs.

“How’d it go?” she asks.

“Pretty well, actually. No,reallywell.”

I’m so relieved that the whole story tumbles out of me. I couldn’t hold it back if I tried.

I’ve heard so many versions of my history. From Kathy Sullivan, from Cam. A twisted interpretation from Zander. Each one had shades of the truth. But I’m sure that what Travis just told me was accurate, at least as far as he knows. It felt like a key sliding into a lock. Not opening up my real memories, because it seems nothing is ever going to do that. But it still felt right. Travis’s story explained so much.

Of courseI responded to Danny the way I did. I saw his eyes, heard the kindness in his voice, and I knew to trust him. I was already primed to consider Danny a friend, someone I knew instinctually would help me.

None of that explains why I love him. That’s everything to do with the man he is. But if I hadn’t already felt that bond with his uncle, then I never would’ve taken the chance of getting close to him. Letting him into my heart.

Aiden crosses his arms, leaning against the kitchen counter. “So it worked out. Cool.”

Quinn snorts, and Matteo shakes his head. “Nah, that won’t cut it. We’re going to need a group hug for this one.” They wrap me up in their arms, Aiden finally joining after Quinn bugs him.

“Is Danny still in with his uncle?” Quinn asks when we break apart.

“Yeah, I’m hoping they can work things out. We’ll see.”

I slide onto a barstool, feeling exhaustion creep up. I’m shocked to realize that the windows are dark, and it’s nearly dinnertime. This has been a long, trying day, but it’s ending in a great place.

Quinn and Aiden are finishing up the last few dishes. Matteo pulls up the stool next to me. “I was just in to see how Nina’s doing. She’s resting, and Ryan just got back on shift. Starla’s still here too. You guys are lucky to have so much help.”

“Definitely. I think that’s because of Danny’s father.” I know Danny doesn’t have an easy relationship with his dad, but at least he’s providing for Nina.

Matteo rubs a hand over his beard. “Ryan was asking about you, though. Sounded like he was anxious to talk to you.”

“Tome? Why?”

“Don’t know. It was odd, if I’m being honest. Has he been a nurse for Nina for very long?”

“A few weeks, I think. He got added to the schedule after I arrived.” My cheeks warm. “I thought it was because Danny was so busy with me that he didn’t have as much time for Nina.”

“Could be. I got a vibe that he might have a thing for you. Or at least, more interest than I would be comfortable with, in Danny’s place.”

“I…don’t think so.” But then I remember Ryan giving me some assessing looks, asking me about myself before. I’m sure it’s nothing but friendly curiosity.

“Maybe I’m wrong,” Matteo says. “Angela always claims I’m overprotective.” He grins. “Speaking of my lovely lady and mother of my child, I need to get home to her. You guys good here? I don’t want to interrupt Danny’s heart-to-heart with his uncle.”

“We’re good, yes. Thank you so much for everything.”

I give Matteo another hug. Aiden and Quinn offer to stay the night if we need, but I tell them to head home. I’m sure Travis will be staying here tonight, and if all goes well, there might be some emotional family time ahead with Nina.

After last goodbyes and seeing our friends out, I head toward the living room. Danny and Travis are just emerging. Both are smiling, which I take as a positive sign.

How’d it go?I try to ask Danny with my eyes.

“I’m going to take Travis to see Nina.” Danny reaches for my hand and tangles our fingers together. “Thanks for telling me what I needed to hear. I love you, babe.”

“Love you, too.” We sneak a kiss, and I see Travis grinning at us over Danny’s shoulder.

I walk with them to Nina’s room. She’s awake, and Starla’s reading to her. Danny goes inside, while Travis and I hang back.

“Hey, how you feeling?” Danny asks his grandmother. “Someone’s here to see you.”

Travis tenses up beside me. “What if she doesn’t want to see me?” he whispers. He reaches for my hand and squeezes.

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