Page 87 of One Eye Open (The BlackWater)

“She has Motor Neurone Disease.” He stated. “My father told me last night. That’s what all this is about. She wants to tell everyone this afternoon.”

“I’m so sorry.” Maddie said.

“It’s okay. It’s not very advanced but I may need to spend more time here.” He replied.

“Do whatever you need Cole.” Maddie stated.

“Do you mind?” He asked her and she frowned.

“Mind what?” Maddie said confused.

“If we both spent more time here…” He said watching her face for her reaction.

“You want me to come here with you?” She said.

“It’ll only be weekends and not every one but yes, I want you here, with me.” He replied and she sighed looking around. In the grand scheme of things it was definitely not the worst place to be but it was also anything but relaxing too.

“What about your family? Will they always be here, like this?” She asked quietly.

“No. Day to day it’ll just be my parents and possibly Brandon or Charlotte. The rest of them only show up for birthdays and holidays or when they think there might be something they can benefit from.” He stated.

“Okay.” Maddie said nodding.

“Okay what?” He asked.

“If you need me here, if that’s what you need then fine. I can do it.” She said and his lips curled up at the edges a little.

“What?” She said.

“I didn’t think you would say yes.” He admitted.

“You thought I’d let you do this alone?” She said.

“No, I was just expecting more of a fight.” He admitted and she laughed.

“Maybe you are taming me Cole Black.” She teased and he laughed.

“I certainly hope so.” He said wrapping his arm around her and she tried to ignore the fact that pretty much his entire damn family were right behind them.

They walked backinto the house, Cole had called the walk short because Maddie had started limping despite her best efforts to hide it.

They’d kicked their boots off and Brandon muttered about needing a coffee before walking ahead to find Constance with Charles and Nicholas in tow as everyone else followed them.

“I think you should go back to crutches.” Cole said and Maddie rolled her eyes at him.

“It’s not that bad. I just need to rest it more.” She stated.

“When we get back to London I want you to see the consultant again.” He stated.

“Fine.” She said before her phone buzzed in her pocket.

She pulled it out frowning and held it for Cole to see as Max’s name flashed.

“I’m just going to take this. Go join the others I’ll be right with you.” She said and sighed before turning on his heel.

“Maximus?” She said jokingly as she picked up.

“How’s the shagathon?” He asked and she gasped. “It’s a joke Maddie.” He said before she could even reply.

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