Page 9 of Bridge to Home

“That’s a bunch of baloney. Where is he right now?”

Harlow looked away. “I’m not sure.”

“Seriously, where is he?”

“Probably moving out.”

“Moving out?” Eryn gasped. “He’s abandoning you?”

“I’m joking. He…he’ll be home, although not directly involved in caring for me.” Harlow leaned back and closed her eyes. Her head throbbed. Her eyes hurt. Her jaw hurt. Eryn had nailed it. Shewasthe epitome of a hot mess. “It’s probably better for him not to be around. He’s not the nurturing type.”

“We’re going to get you the best care possible,” Eryn promised. “A therapist who will get you back on your feet so you can divorce that piece of garbage.”

“I know you’re upset. I’m not too happy about how he plans to handle my accident either, but I’m not divorcing my husband.” Harlow lifted her head. “You don’t understand Robert. He needs time to process what happened. He’ll come around.”

Eryn arched her eyebrow. “When? After you’re back on your feet and inking new billion dollar deals to keep him in Rolexes and designer duds?”

“You make him sound like a terrible person. He has his good qualities.”

“Such as?”

“He knows how to wheel and deal. Robert has excellent taste. We’ve made some sound financial investments thanks to him.”

“That’s all fine and dandy. I want to hear about the important qualities, the qualities that actually matter.”

Harlow grew quiet. Her friend was right. Deep down, she knew her husband was shallow. As shallow as a mud puddle, but they also shared some great memories. Skiing the Swiss Alps. Cruising the French Riviera. Exploring the Giza pyramids. So many wonderful memories and trips, enjoying each other’s company. Partners in business and in life.

“My head hurts,” Harlow finally whispered, unable to bear the thought of a man she loved, and who she thought loved her, abandoning her when she needed him most.

“I’m sorry.” Eryn pressed a light hand to her friend’s bruised arm. “You know me. I barrel in like a bulldozer on rocket fuel. I’m going to run down and grab a latte. Will they let me bring you something? Maybe a grilled cheese and some chicken noodle soup?”

Harlow offered her a shaky smile. “I’m not hungry, but I think I will take another nap.”

Eryn gave her a gentle hug and whispered in her ear, “I love you, my friend.”

Harlow’s lower lip trembled. “I love you too. Thank you for flying to California.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way. Get some rest. I’ll be here when you wake up.”

“Thanks, Eryn.” Her friend had barely made it to the door when Harlow closed her eyes again. Sleep. A blissful escape, where her body didn’t hurt…and her heart wasn’t breaking over her absent husband.

*****

Harlow had no idea how long she’d napped. When she opened her eyes, Eryn was by her bedside, cell phone in hand, and a serious expression on her face as she tapped the screen. “Are you writing a press release for me?”

Eryn promptly set the phone in her lap. “I can if you want me to.”

“Thanks. I might take you up on it.”

“You had a nice nap.”

“How long was I out?”

Her friend glanced at her watch. “An hour and forty-seven minutes.”

“Is that all?” Harlow grinned. “I feel much more rested.”

“Actually, your color looks better.” Eryn explained the doctor had come by, along with the nurse. She glanced over her shoulder and lowered her voice. “You have your own nurse. I think her name is Melanie. I secretly nicknamed her Mellowly.”

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