Page 29 of Crow's Haven
His eyes search mine for a beat. Whatever he’s looking for, he must find because he gives a slow nod, accepting what little I’m willing to say.
“You did a good job with Scout’s arm. You’ve done that before, haven’t you?”
I look at him, really look. But then I decide I can’t. I want to be the one who stays, and I’m worried that once the truth is out, then I’ll have to leave these boys just like their mother.
Glancing down at Chase, I ignore his question and say, “This is where I’m supposed to be.” Once Chase settles down in my arms again, I explain, “Being with Crow and his boys is a genuine pleasure. That’s the job I want right now.”
Patch studies me for a moment, then gives a small, approving nod. “Caretaking looks good on you. But if you do want a job in the medical field, the offer is still open.”
Before I can respond, Scout breaks away from the group and comes running towards us, holding out his arm.
“You brought the saw, right?” he asks excitedly.
Patch lifts a brow. “Do you want me to bring the saw?”
Scout hesitates, eyes narrowing. “Yes. Cut the cast off, not my arm.”
Crow steps out from the grass at just the right moment, wiping his face on his t-shirt. “Relax, buddy. No saws today. We’re going old-school.”
I let Chase slide off my lap and follow him as Crow waves Scout towards one of the picnic benches. Patch sets his bag on the table and rolls up his sleeves then begins to cut away the bandage tape with a pair of surgical shears. I hover a few steps back with Chase, who climbs onto the bench beside me, eyes wide.
“Is it gonna bleed?” he whispers.
“No, Chase. It’s just a cast. His arm’s all better now.”
“Can I touch it when it’s off?” His voice is curious and full of wonder.
“You have to ask your brother about that,” I tell him gently.
Scout fidgets as the cast peels away, clearly expecting more drama. When the final piece cracks free, he stares down at his skinny, pale arm like he doesn’t quite recognize it.
Patch pokes gently along the bone. “Is there any tenderness where I pressed?”
Scout shakes his head.
“Wiggle your fingers for me.”
Scout happily complies, his smile growing wider.
“Good boy,” Crow coos, clapping his son’s shoulder, proudly. “Told you that you were healing like a champ.”
Scout flexes his fingers, then grins and immediately starts looking for a stick to test his strength on. Chase follows him, trailing just a few steps behind, peppering him with questions about what the inside of the cast smelled like.
Patch tucks his tools away with practiced ease and glances over at me.
“You ever change your mind about working for me, just call.”
“You tryin’ to poach our Ladybug?” Crow jokes.
Patch just grins.
I smile at him. “Thanks, but that part of my life’s on hold for the time being.”
Patch shrugs and hoists his bag back onto his shoulder and tips his head towards the boys.
“They’re lucky to have you,” he says.
I watch the twins chasing each other through the shadows. They are so energetic and full of life; it makes me smile. “I’m lucky to have them,” I tell him.
