Page 92 of Hold Me Instead
Zachary cleared his throat, overwhelmed by the affection he witnessed from his family within mere minutes of them all being together. He had to admit his mother was right—today was special.
***
“Vivi, it’s time to set up your pie!” Sandra called from the kitchen.
Vivi bolted off the couch from her spot next to Zachary and ran to help.
“You sure you don’t need help, honey?” Jeanie sat in the tan swivel arm chair next to Daniel’s while they all watched the parade, now dulled without Vivi’s commentary.
“We’re good, Mom!” Sandra called back.
Jeanie pushed her chair with extra emphasis while she muttered about children treating her like an old woman.
Zachary rolled his eyes. “She’s trying to do something nice for you, Mom. She and Jay have it covered.”
“You weren’t supposed to hear that,” Jeanie replied haughtily, straightening her plum cardigan over a floral blouse.
“Speaking of children knowing everything,” Daniel chimed in. He’d been quiet the whole time watching the parade, unless spoken to directly by his grandchildren. Now his gaze pierced Zachary. “How are things going at the clinic?”
“Everything’s fine. We’ve been able to maintain a full schedule, it’s almost like they didn’t miss a beat,” Zachary said.
Daniel gave a quick nod. “People have been receptive to you being there?”
“Much to Charlie’s chagrin, yes.” Zachary smiled, thinking of her throwing down the gauntlet in the beginning.
“I’ve always loved her,” Jeanie said.
Daniel grunted.
Zachary knew his dad loved her too. “She keeps things running smoothly, Dad. You’d be proud.”
Daniel looked away. “She’s fantastic. Perfect for the practice.”
Zachary cleared his throat. “I agree.”
“There’s something you need to know, though.” Daniel’s face was twisted with concern.
“No, not today,” Jeanie said urgently, her hand landing on his forearm.
“We’re approaching the end of the year, Jeanie. With Dr. Kamath’s orders, I need to make sure things are moving in the right direction.”
Zachary looked at his parents. “What’s going on?”
Daniel turned his gaze toward him. “The practice is in trouble.”
Zachary nodded slowly. “I found a few things I’d wanted to discuss with you.”
“There’s a lot of…debt. I had to take out another loan recently, and I’m behind on payments.”
“Wait, another loan? I didn’t come across any of that paperwork.”
“You wouldn’t. I’ve had the documents at the house.”
“How bad is it?”
“I can show you later.”
“Dad. What about your accountant? Hasn’t he been involved with this?”
