“And you have wonderful wives because of it. If it’s not worth fighting for, it’s not worth it.”
“She’s worth it,” Conrad says. The conviction in his voice brings tears to my eyes.
“Enough of that,” Lena says. I have a feeling she can sense I’m on the verge of tears. “Sawyer, how have you been feeling?”
Conrad stays seated on the floor next to me, just as his brothers do with their wives the remainder of the night. And when I announce I need to head home, he’s on his feet, helping me into my coat and walking me to the door.
“Shit, I didn’t know it was snowing. I’ll follow you home,” he says as we make our way outside.
“I know how to drive in the snow.”
“I know, but I’d feel better if I drove you.”
“I can handle it.”
“Will you at least call me and let me know you made it home safely?”
“I can do that.”
“Thank you.” He reaches for my door, pulling it open. “Drive safe.”
“Night,” I say, climbing behind the wheel. As I pull out of the driveway, I try not to let the disappointment take over that he didn’t kiss me goodbye. I need to get my head on straight. I have to decide once and for all how I’m going to handle him and this thing between us. If I’m not willing to give him… give us a chance, then I need to keep my distance for a while.
Before I know it, I’m pulling into the back lot of the bakery. Thankfully, it’s well lit, something our father insisted on when we moved here. Still, I pull my keys from the ignition and place my finger on my mace, just to be safe.
Once I’m inside with the door locked, I call Conrad like I promised. “I made it home,” I say as soon as he answers.
“Thank you.”
“Night, Con.”
“Night, baby.”
I head straight to my room to change and climb into bed. I have to be up early tomorrow, and I’m exhausted. Luckily, exhaustion takes over, and I fall fast asleep.
Chapter 22
Conrad
This is the fourth Monday since we’ve been back from the cabin that I’ve started my week by stopping at Warm Delights. I now have Gloria, McKenzie, and Aurora on my side, and Aspen, well, I can see it in her eyes that she’s warming up to the idea of us. I can feel it.
Today is also the third Monday in a row that I’ve delivered flowers on my own. Sure, there’s something to be said for the florist delivering them, but then they’re the ones who get to see her smile and the way her eyes light up. I’m a selfish bastard when it comes to Aspen Steele, and I want it all. So I’ve arranged for early pick up of a different bouquet for the past three weeks, and it’s been more than worth it.
The bell chimes, alerting the staff that they have a customer. McKenzie is behind the counter this morning, and she smiles brightly. “Morning, Conrad.”
“McKenzie.” I nod. “She in the back?”
“Not today. She’s actually upstairs. She’s not feeling well.”
My steps falter. The thought of her not feeling well twists something inside me. “Thanks.” I push through the swinging kitchen door to find my brother and his wife's lips locked. Normally I would come off with a smart-aleck comment, but today, I have bigger issues. “Aspen’s sick?” I ask as they pull apart.
“Yeah. She was up all night with a head cold. She couldn’t sleep because she couldn’t breathe and she was coughing her head off. I had to force her to take the day off.”
“Why didn’t you call me?” I ask.
“Because she’s a grown woman who can take care of herself.”
“But what if she needs something?” She shouldn’t be alone if she’s sick.
“She’s fine, and I’m right downstairs if she needs something.”
“I’m going up,” I tell her. I don’t ask or wait for permission. My feet take the stairs two at a time until I reach their apartment door. Trying the handle, I find it unlocked, so I let myself in. As quiet as I can, I make my way to her bedroom and push open the door. She’s in bed with a mound of pillows propping up her head. Stepping into the room, I set her flowers down on top of her dresser and smile when I see the other two sitting there as well.
I can see it in her eyes that my efforts are having an impact on her.
Kneeling beside the bed, I gently take her hand in mine, bringing it to my lips. Her eyes flutter open, and she gives me a small smile. “What are you doing here?” she asks, her voice gravelly.
“Aurora told me you were sick.”
“Ugh,” she groans. “Just kill me now.” She pulls her hand from mine. “I don’t want you to get it.” She coughs.
Reaching up, I take it back. “I don’t care. Can I get you anything?” I search her face, looking for I’m not really sure what. I can tell her throat is sore, and from the cough and stuffy nose, I’m sure she’s miserable.
“Looks like you already brought the patient flowers.”
“Of course, I did. Are you hungry?”
“No.” Another cough.
I don’t know what to do for her. I’m racking my brain when I get an idea. Pulling my phone out of my pocket, I swipe at the screen, and dial my mom. “Hey, Mom. Aspen isn’t feeling well. What should I do for her?” I say as soon as she answers.
“Good morning to you too.” She laughs. “What are her symptoms?”
“Baby, what are your symptoms?” Her eyes soften at my term of endearment. She rattles off that she has a stuffy nose, sinus pressure, a cough, and a sore throat. “You hear all that?” I ask my mom.
“Yes. Has she taken anything?”
“Have you taken anything?” I feel like an ass. I should have already asked her that.
“Nyquil.”
I repeat her reply to my mom. “That’s good. She’s going to need something for the daytime too. Dayquil will work. Make sure she’s drinking and staying hydrated, and it will help to put a vaporizer in her room, to help moisten the air. That will help with the chest congestion and her cough.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
“You’re welcome, dear. Let me know if I can do anything.”
“Will do. Love you.” I end the call, sliding the phone back into my pocket. “I’m going to run out and get you some more medicine and a vaporizer.”
“You d-don’t have to do that,” she says over another cough.
“Hey.” I stand and lean over her. “I’m taking care of you.” Closing the distance, I press my lips to her forehead. “I’ll be back. Is there anything else you’d like to have?”
“Cough drops.”
“Done. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Closing her bedroom door behind me, I head back downstairs to the bakery. Grant is still there, talking to his wife. “Hey, I’m not going to be in today. I’m heading to get a vaporizer and some other stuff Mom suggested for Aspen. I’ll call Layla on my way and tell her to cancel my day.”
“I’m here, Conrad. You don’t have to miss work,” Aurora assures me.