Page 59 of Jaime
“Sorry,” I found myself muttering.
“Don’t be sorry,” Magda said genuinely. “A lot of people panic when it comes to driving.”
I managed to get to my feet, but my whole body was shaking.
“I should be able to do this,” I found myself saying.
“Some people never do,” she said. “There’s nothing wrong with that.”
I swallowed.
“Can I reschedule?” I asked.
She smiled kindly.
“If that’s what you would like, I’m happy to keep trying with you.”
I nodded, shakily and pushed off the car.
Mr. Woo immediately came to help me. He was a lot quieter than his wife, and I was surprised by how insistent he was in walking me to my door. His wife followed, hurrying to open the door for us.
By the time I was inside and found Naomi bouncing Evie in her arms in the living room, I felt more humiliated than I could ever remember being.
“What happened?” she asked, her eyes wide, flying between us all.
“He had a panic attack,” Mrs. Woo said.
“I’m going to lie down,” I interrupted.
She nodded, still watching me with her eyes practically bugging out.
“Sure, take your time,” she said, instantly more gentle after Mrs. Woo’s words.
I made it to my bed, collapsing onto it. With the door closed, I could still hear their voices, talking quietly, but not the words they were saying.
I waited until the living room was silent again, too afraid to show my face after what had happened.
When nearly an hour had passed, I finally forced myself up. I was still a little light-headed, but Naomi had originally agreed to babysit for half an hour and guilt was gnawing at me.
“Hey, how are you feeling?” she asked the moment I entered.
I shrugged dejectedly and she grimaced.
“I hope you don’t mind that I ordered us Thai food for lunch.”
I blinked, surprised.
“You didn’t need to do that.”
“Don’t worry, it’s on Ethan. I have a business expense card,” she said, winking playfully.
I shook my head, an amused smile touching my lips as I sank down next to her on the couch. Evie was fast asleep in her bouncer on the cushion between us. I reached out, touching her little hand. Even in sleep, she gripped onto my finger tightly, soothing me.
“I can’t seem to do anything without Ethan,” I found myself muttering.
Naomi watched me with worried eyes.
“He seems to want to help,” she said gently.
