Post by Shanna on Oct 4, 2015 14:59:10 GMT -5
“Okay, boys are ready to go.” Nick called walking stiffly down the stairs. Hearing the tightness in his voice she looked up and watched as he descended the last few steps to reach her. Seeing the look on her face and that she was giving him, he knew he better tell her,“My lower back is hurting.” He replied.
Stepping behind him she placed her hand flat against him, “Where?” When he showed her; she massaged his back. Leaning back against her she braced their weight letting her hand warm his back. “Better honey?” Sarah wanted to know. He didn’t say anything right away and she said his name again. Looking down he moved away. He clutched his stomach as to keep the nerves down. Running her hand over the back of his shoulder she stepped around to see him. She saw the beginning of dark circles around the edges of his eyes as well as him holding his stomach & spinning his wedding ring; Nick didn’t bother to hide his angry yet tear filled gaze from her.
“Damn… he whispered violently, I think this will be worse than we expect Sarah, something we’ve never had to face.” he opened his arms; she laid her head over his heart and he wrapped her in his arms breathing in the scent of her hair as she rubbed her hand over the back of his neck.
“I was helping the boys get dressed then finish packing their bags when I looked over and saw Billy’s little face then Jason’s and it hit me -- the worse I get I won’t be able to do the normal things I do with them like their baths, and reading them there bedtime stories and have my time with them.” He said whispered painfully as he shut his eyes, “I won’t be their dad.”
“Oh sweetie, you will always be the boys’ dad and true you won’t be able to do some things for them but you still can and will be able to do certain things we’ll just have to modify how you do them.” Sarah stated.
“Daddy!!” Billy and Jason shrieked as they ran downstairs. “What guys?” he replied turning. “We want hugs.” He laughed, “Okay lets’ go sit down.” Taking them by the hands they went to the couch. Sitting, he pulled them both on his lap the boys hugged him tightly; he turned to see her. She smiled softly then said, “Can you get them to the car while I go make sure they didn’t forget anything and get their stuff and lock up?”
He nodded as he hugged them tightly once more; and taking each by a hand they walked out. Sarah heard her men talking as they went to the car. Going upstairs she let her tears go as she thought to the moment before the boys interrupted. “How can I watch him get worse day after day… how can I do this?” she said out loud as she checked the boys’ bags. Carrying the bags down; she went to the couch; grabbed a pillow then walked out the door locking it. When she looked around Nick was standing there watching for her from the passenger door and she stared at him.
Held in his gaze he winked at her, “You ready Beautiful?” Sarah smiled wiping away her tears nodded and began walking toward him. “I can do this because I love him.” She realized. “We can do it together even though it won’t be easy at times,” she thought as she reached him. Nick saw the tracks her tears had left when she stood in front of him but didn’t say anything. He knew every difference about her and many times why. Dropping a light loving kiss on her lips he smiled then they got in the car and headed to Jeff’s to drop the boys off to stay the night since someone would be there while Jeff would be at Nate’s with them.
Pulling out of the driveway after leaving the boys, Nick saw the pillow between them and picked it up, “Why’d you bring this honey?” he wondered.
“For your back.” She replied absently casting a glance at him and saw him looking at her. “Thanks.”
With no words; Nick reached up,rubbed her cheek where the tears had been; she bit her lip; she knew that was his way of letting her know he’d seen the tears. Opening her hand he slid his hand in her palm and closed his fingers. Leaning up he turned on the radio and with the volume low the music surrounded them as they continued to drive toward her dad’s for this meeting that neither wanted to have. Both were lost in their own thoughts about the meeting & telling everyone they knew it would be hard to tell the family about this, “Maybe it won’t be as bad as I think.” Nick thought as they pulled in the parking lot.
Once they reached the door of the restaurant she clutched his hand; together they walked in and Nate waved at them as they headed to a table. Nick sat in the chair and flinched as he tried to get his back comfortable. Sarah leaned over and placed her hand around his shoulder and spoke into his ear. When he nodded she kissed his cheek; turned and walked out the door. Nate sat down beside him, “You make my daughter happy.”
“I love her Nate.” He replied as she came back in bringing the pillow with her.
“Hey Daddy… Here baby lean up a bit.” When he did Sarah placed the pillow against the back of the chair. Finally getting the pillow placed right Nick leaned back and placed his hands over hers that were wrapped around him. Tilting his head back she dropped an upside down kiss over his lips then gently bit his lip making him laugh.
“Hey sweetie, Nick, can I ask what this meeting’s about?” Nate said watching them. “I’d rather tell everyone at once… it would be easier.” His son-in-law replied. Everyone looked up, when they heard the door open, Nick’s face crumbled when he saw his mom,dad & brother walk in. Slipping out of the seat he went to them, “Mama, Dad, what are you doing here you weren’t due back from your trip for a few more days” He asked puzzled. “Hey Jack.” He responded as his brother hugged him. “Your sister told us after you talked to her and we left immediately & came straight here.” Your sister and Daniel had to stay in London for now but they asked us to give everyone their love." his mom Aubree said as she pulled him into a hug and he held on to her. His dad and brother both lay a hand on his shoulders to let him know he wasn’t alone.
After a few minutes Nick’s mom asked “Where’s Sarah?” Nick looked at his family, “she’s over there talking with her dad, come on.” He said turning to go back to his wife when he did he saw that Jeff had come in & was talking with Sarah & her dad. When Sarah saw her in-laws she hugged them & introduced Jeff. Her dad then went to get drinks for everyone. “Honey did you know they were coming?” Nick asked his wife quietly nodding toward his family when she wrapped her arms around him. Shaking her head no they continued talking.
Jeff was talking to Nick and Sarah as Lindsay, Kevin, Greg, Joanie walked in. When Joanie walked in Nate walked behind her, outside and put the closed sign up outside then came in closing the door behind her and went to the table where everyone was already sitting.
“Okay why are we all here?” Kevin wondered. Nick took a deep breath and just looked around the table starting with Joanie on his right and all around until he locked eyes with Sarah who was on his left. “Well there is something you all need to know.” Nick stated.
“Oh Sarah, you’re pregnant.” Kevin guessed. Both Sarah and Nick laughed and she shook her head as he continued, “No,she’s not I wish it were that great of news… I really do.”
“Ah hell….” Nick paused taking a breath & held up an index finger to show he needed a minute, Sarah could see the agony in his face, he tried again, “Starting a few weeks ago I started having some problems---.” “What do you mean Nick?” Lindsay asked. “Let him finish Lindsay.” Sarah requested. “—I went to get the mail one day; when I came back I was looking through it when Sarah saw me begin to fall—when I took a step to try and balance I fell, I couldn’t feel my feet and legs under me. It went away after a few minutes and I was okay but through the weeks the attacks happened again or I’d have a tingling sensation in my feet, my thighs, or my lower back or shoulders began to hurt. Everyone listened intently he continued to explain his symptoms & the tests.
“Nick what’s ---?”
Holding his hand up; he stopped Kevin, “Let me get this out.” Kevin nodded and leaned back, “We went to the hospital and after getting examined by Jeff he told me he was going to call a doctor in to consult. The new doctor examined me and admitted me night before last to run some tests, he ran a series of tests plus a spinal tap---.” Nick stopped when he heard Joanie gasps. Taking her hand he continued, “I met with the doctor this morning to get the results of the spinal tap and he told us that I have something called Guillian-Barre Syndrome.” Nick finished.
“What is it?” Nate asked. Nick looked over, “Can you explain?” Jeff nodded as he began to tell them what would be happening as a result of the syndrome. Jeff was still talking when all of a sudden Joanie yelled, “NO! NO!” and in haste to leave knocked over her chair as she ran out.
Greg stood and looked at them, “Go after her Greg and bring her back so I can talk to her.” Nick replied. He nodded as he ran out after her. When Jeff finished explaining everyone was silent. Sarah looked at Nick as she saw his eyes; she saw he was pale and it was all becoming real as he told them so taking his hand she stood up and continued
“We wanted all of you to know because you are all special to us as friends and family. This won’t be an easy thing to battle so we will need your support as Nick’s symptoms become worse ---.” Nate stood interrupting Sarah, “As I look around I think I can safely speak for everyone here, both of you have our support and love and we will help in any way you ask us too. Neither of you are alone through this.” He responded as Jack stood & going to his brother wrapped his arms around his shoulders & just stayed there. “Brothers” he said quietly in his ear. Nick smiled knowingly at their private signal.
“It won’t be easy Nate.” Nick said softly. “No it won’t be but both of you are fighters and you won’t let this beat you.” Sarah saw Jack nod, “You’re not alone little brother, we’ve all got you & Sarah & the boys.” Nick tried to smile.
Over Nate’s shoulder, Nick saw Greg standing by the counter with a silent Joanie. Everyone knew who was there without having to be told. Sarah’s dad took the lead and went to his son -in – law and with a squeeze on the shoulder left them; everyone followed him and talked to them for a bit and each left except Kevin and Lindsay. Jeff walked up to them, “You guys did really good I’ll kiss the boys for you.” He stated then left as well.
Greg walked Joanie over; sat her down in front of her uncle then went to Nate who was at the counter. Sarah squeezed his hand, “I’ll be with daddy if you need me.” He nodded never taking his eyes away from Joanie. At the counter Sarah, Nate and Kevin went into the kitchen to tell Greg the rest.
Taking her hands he held them in his as he watched her eyes fill with tears. With a soft kiss on her hand Nick sat up, “Greg?” he called. When he appeared he walked over, “Yeah?” “Stay with us please.” Nick asked. “Are you sure?” Greg wondered. Her uncle nodded, “She needs you right now.” He watched as his friend grabbed a chair; brought it over and sat down beside Joanie and placed a hand at her back, “I’m right here.” Greg said softly.
Nick squeezed her hands, “I need to talk to you about this, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you early when I saw you but I needed to wait and tell everyone at one.” She stared at him, “But you’re sick –.” She whispered. “Yes sweetie I’m sick, let me explain what is going to happen okay?” When she nodded Nick began to explain what she hadn’t heard. Joanie began crying as she listened; when he finished she said the only thing that was on her mind, “You are going to die … die and leave me.”
“Oh Joanie look at me… I’m not going to die--.” “But Jeff said--.” Nick interrupted, “I know what he said, I’m going to fight so hard and beat this. Beside I have so much to live for… I have Sarah who I love so much, I have the boys, I have my family & Sarah’s; and the friends that Sarah and I have plus Greg here may hit me if I go anywhere. When Greg stared at him Nick grinned. “He’s right Joanie Nick can’t leave or I’d never forgive him.” Greg stated as he rubbed her back.
Squeezing her hand Nick continued, “I can’t let that happen can I?” She shook her head. “I’m not going to leave my family & friends, so unless you tell me to go away you’ll be stuck with me cutie.” He looked at them both, “Greg you know what’s going on now as well so I will say there will be times I’m going to need your help.” “My help?” Greg wondered. Nick nodded, “Yes, yours and everyone’s help, this won’t be an easy disease to fight and I will have days were it will be bad and it won’t be easy on us but to know our family supports us will help.”
“You know you’ve got my help Nick whatever you need.” Greg stated. “I know I do and I appreciate it. Now tell me what you did today?” Nick asked.
“Well before coming back here we went for a walk in the park and we ended up in a play ground where I pushed Joanie on the swings and I made her laugh and smile.”
Nick grinned knowing Greg had done what he’d asked.
From the kitchen Sarah watched the scenes between them unfold and tears flooded her eyes. “He loves her so much even when she doesn’t understand,” she said to herself as she continued to watch his reactions as they talked. Seeing him move his back she walked over.
“Can I join this party?” She asked grinning. “Get over here." He replied pulling her down to sit in his lap. “Oh seriously, Nick please!!” Greg whined making a horrible face. Sarah playfully hit at Greg as Nick laughed. Sarah kissed his cheek then whispered in his ear, “You back’s really hurting isn’t it?” then she looked at him. He nodded as he threaded his fingers through hers.
“Okay, sweetie, I’m tired, and I’m sure you’re getting that way. I’m ready to go, are you?,” she asked, getting up from Nick’s lap. When he tried to stand he couldn’t since his back was getting stiff. Joanie put her arm around him on one side to help him and Sarah.
“I’ll be back in a minute Greg.” she replied, he nodded then grabbed the pillow and went out with them and watched them walk to the car. Reaching the car Greg threw the pillow in the front seat then went to wait by the bench for Joanie.
Nick turned to face Joanie and hugged her to him kissing her hair. She hugged him back tightly then looked up in his eyes. Smiling, he softly replied, “I love you cutie very much…I’m not going to leave you.” Joanie & Greg watched as they left.
Back inside, everyone stood around the counter in silence thinking about what they’d heard tonight. Greg stood behind Joanie with his arms around her while Lindsay stood between Nate and her dad and she had a hand on Kevin’s shoulder.
On the way home, Nick turned to look at her from the passage seat, “There is one more person I have to tell honey.” Sarah glanced at him. This was the hardest for him to say, “I need to tell Josh.”
Stepping behind him she placed her hand flat against him, “Where?” When he showed her; she massaged his back. Leaning back against her she braced their weight letting her hand warm his back. “Better honey?” Sarah wanted to know. He didn’t say anything right away and she said his name again. Looking down he moved away. He clutched his stomach as to keep the nerves down. Running her hand over the back of his shoulder she stepped around to see him. She saw the beginning of dark circles around the edges of his eyes as well as him holding his stomach & spinning his wedding ring; Nick didn’t bother to hide his angry yet tear filled gaze from her.
“Damn… he whispered violently, I think this will be worse than we expect Sarah, something we’ve never had to face.” he opened his arms; she laid her head over his heart and he wrapped her in his arms breathing in the scent of her hair as she rubbed her hand over the back of his neck.
“I was helping the boys get dressed then finish packing their bags when I looked over and saw Billy’s little face then Jason’s and it hit me -- the worse I get I won’t be able to do the normal things I do with them like their baths, and reading them there bedtime stories and have my time with them.” He said whispered painfully as he shut his eyes, “I won’t be their dad.”
“Oh sweetie, you will always be the boys’ dad and true you won’t be able to do some things for them but you still can and will be able to do certain things we’ll just have to modify how you do them.” Sarah stated.
“Daddy!!” Billy and Jason shrieked as they ran downstairs. “What guys?” he replied turning. “We want hugs.” He laughed, “Okay lets’ go sit down.” Taking them by the hands they went to the couch. Sitting, he pulled them both on his lap the boys hugged him tightly; he turned to see her. She smiled softly then said, “Can you get them to the car while I go make sure they didn’t forget anything and get their stuff and lock up?”
He nodded as he hugged them tightly once more; and taking each by a hand they walked out. Sarah heard her men talking as they went to the car. Going upstairs she let her tears go as she thought to the moment before the boys interrupted. “How can I watch him get worse day after day… how can I do this?” she said out loud as she checked the boys’ bags. Carrying the bags down; she went to the couch; grabbed a pillow then walked out the door locking it. When she looked around Nick was standing there watching for her from the passenger door and she stared at him.
Held in his gaze he winked at her, “You ready Beautiful?” Sarah smiled wiping away her tears nodded and began walking toward him. “I can do this because I love him.” She realized. “We can do it together even though it won’t be easy at times,” she thought as she reached him. Nick saw the tracks her tears had left when she stood in front of him but didn’t say anything. He knew every difference about her and many times why. Dropping a light loving kiss on her lips he smiled then they got in the car and headed to Jeff’s to drop the boys off to stay the night since someone would be there while Jeff would be at Nate’s with them.
Pulling out of the driveway after leaving the boys, Nick saw the pillow between them and picked it up, “Why’d you bring this honey?” he wondered.
“For your back.” She replied absently casting a glance at him and saw him looking at her. “Thanks.”
With no words; Nick reached up,rubbed her cheek where the tears had been; she bit her lip; she knew that was his way of letting her know he’d seen the tears. Opening her hand he slid his hand in her palm and closed his fingers. Leaning up he turned on the radio and with the volume low the music surrounded them as they continued to drive toward her dad’s for this meeting that neither wanted to have. Both were lost in their own thoughts about the meeting & telling everyone they knew it would be hard to tell the family about this, “Maybe it won’t be as bad as I think.” Nick thought as they pulled in the parking lot.
Once they reached the door of the restaurant she clutched his hand; together they walked in and Nate waved at them as they headed to a table. Nick sat in the chair and flinched as he tried to get his back comfortable. Sarah leaned over and placed her hand around his shoulder and spoke into his ear. When he nodded she kissed his cheek; turned and walked out the door. Nate sat down beside him, “You make my daughter happy.”
“I love her Nate.” He replied as she came back in bringing the pillow with her.
“Hey Daddy… Here baby lean up a bit.” When he did Sarah placed the pillow against the back of the chair. Finally getting the pillow placed right Nick leaned back and placed his hands over hers that were wrapped around him. Tilting his head back she dropped an upside down kiss over his lips then gently bit his lip making him laugh.
“Hey sweetie, Nick, can I ask what this meeting’s about?” Nate said watching them. “I’d rather tell everyone at once… it would be easier.” His son-in-law replied. Everyone looked up, when they heard the door open, Nick’s face crumbled when he saw his mom,dad & brother walk in. Slipping out of the seat he went to them, “Mama, Dad, what are you doing here you weren’t due back from your trip for a few more days” He asked puzzled. “Hey Jack.” He responded as his brother hugged him. “Your sister told us after you talked to her and we left immediately & came straight here.” Your sister and Daniel had to stay in London for now but they asked us to give everyone their love." his mom Aubree said as she pulled him into a hug and he held on to her. His dad and brother both lay a hand on his shoulders to let him know he wasn’t alone.
After a few minutes Nick’s mom asked “Where’s Sarah?” Nick looked at his family, “she’s over there talking with her dad, come on.” He said turning to go back to his wife when he did he saw that Jeff had come in & was talking with Sarah & her dad. When Sarah saw her in-laws she hugged them & introduced Jeff. Her dad then went to get drinks for everyone. “Honey did you know they were coming?” Nick asked his wife quietly nodding toward his family when she wrapped her arms around him. Shaking her head no they continued talking.
Jeff was talking to Nick and Sarah as Lindsay, Kevin, Greg, Joanie walked in. When Joanie walked in Nate walked behind her, outside and put the closed sign up outside then came in closing the door behind her and went to the table where everyone was already sitting.
“Okay why are we all here?” Kevin wondered. Nick took a deep breath and just looked around the table starting with Joanie on his right and all around until he locked eyes with Sarah who was on his left. “Well there is something you all need to know.” Nick stated.
“Oh Sarah, you’re pregnant.” Kevin guessed. Both Sarah and Nick laughed and she shook her head as he continued, “No,she’s not I wish it were that great of news… I really do.”
“Ah hell….” Nick paused taking a breath & held up an index finger to show he needed a minute, Sarah could see the agony in his face, he tried again, “Starting a few weeks ago I started having some problems---.” “What do you mean Nick?” Lindsay asked. “Let him finish Lindsay.” Sarah requested. “—I went to get the mail one day; when I came back I was looking through it when Sarah saw me begin to fall—when I took a step to try and balance I fell, I couldn’t feel my feet and legs under me. It went away after a few minutes and I was okay but through the weeks the attacks happened again or I’d have a tingling sensation in my feet, my thighs, or my lower back or shoulders began to hurt. Everyone listened intently he continued to explain his symptoms & the tests.
“Nick what’s ---?”
Holding his hand up; he stopped Kevin, “Let me get this out.” Kevin nodded and leaned back, “We went to the hospital and after getting examined by Jeff he told me he was going to call a doctor in to consult. The new doctor examined me and admitted me night before last to run some tests, he ran a series of tests plus a spinal tap---.” Nick stopped when he heard Joanie gasps. Taking her hand he continued, “I met with the doctor this morning to get the results of the spinal tap and he told us that I have something called Guillian-Barre Syndrome.” Nick finished.
“What is it?” Nate asked. Nick looked over, “Can you explain?” Jeff nodded as he began to tell them what would be happening as a result of the syndrome. Jeff was still talking when all of a sudden Joanie yelled, “NO! NO!” and in haste to leave knocked over her chair as she ran out.
Greg stood and looked at them, “Go after her Greg and bring her back so I can talk to her.” Nick replied. He nodded as he ran out after her. When Jeff finished explaining everyone was silent. Sarah looked at Nick as she saw his eyes; she saw he was pale and it was all becoming real as he told them so taking his hand she stood up and continued
“We wanted all of you to know because you are all special to us as friends and family. This won’t be an easy thing to battle so we will need your support as Nick’s symptoms become worse ---.” Nate stood interrupting Sarah, “As I look around I think I can safely speak for everyone here, both of you have our support and love and we will help in any way you ask us too. Neither of you are alone through this.” He responded as Jack stood & going to his brother wrapped his arms around his shoulders & just stayed there. “Brothers” he said quietly in his ear. Nick smiled knowingly at their private signal.
“It won’t be easy Nate.” Nick said softly. “No it won’t be but both of you are fighters and you won’t let this beat you.” Sarah saw Jack nod, “You’re not alone little brother, we’ve all got you & Sarah & the boys.” Nick tried to smile.
Over Nate’s shoulder, Nick saw Greg standing by the counter with a silent Joanie. Everyone knew who was there without having to be told. Sarah’s dad took the lead and went to his son -in – law and with a squeeze on the shoulder left them; everyone followed him and talked to them for a bit and each left except Kevin and Lindsay. Jeff walked up to them, “You guys did really good I’ll kiss the boys for you.” He stated then left as well.
Greg walked Joanie over; sat her down in front of her uncle then went to Nate who was at the counter. Sarah squeezed his hand, “I’ll be with daddy if you need me.” He nodded never taking his eyes away from Joanie. At the counter Sarah, Nate and Kevin went into the kitchen to tell Greg the rest.
Taking her hands he held them in his as he watched her eyes fill with tears. With a soft kiss on her hand Nick sat up, “Greg?” he called. When he appeared he walked over, “Yeah?” “Stay with us please.” Nick asked. “Are you sure?” Greg wondered. Her uncle nodded, “She needs you right now.” He watched as his friend grabbed a chair; brought it over and sat down beside Joanie and placed a hand at her back, “I’m right here.” Greg said softly.
Nick squeezed her hands, “I need to talk to you about this, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you early when I saw you but I needed to wait and tell everyone at one.” She stared at him, “But you’re sick –.” She whispered. “Yes sweetie I’m sick, let me explain what is going to happen okay?” When she nodded Nick began to explain what she hadn’t heard. Joanie began crying as she listened; when he finished she said the only thing that was on her mind, “You are going to die … die and leave me.”
“Oh Joanie look at me… I’m not going to die--.” “But Jeff said--.” Nick interrupted, “I know what he said, I’m going to fight so hard and beat this. Beside I have so much to live for… I have Sarah who I love so much, I have the boys, I have my family & Sarah’s; and the friends that Sarah and I have plus Greg here may hit me if I go anywhere. When Greg stared at him Nick grinned. “He’s right Joanie Nick can’t leave or I’d never forgive him.” Greg stated as he rubbed her back.
Squeezing her hand Nick continued, “I can’t let that happen can I?” She shook her head. “I’m not going to leave my family & friends, so unless you tell me to go away you’ll be stuck with me cutie.” He looked at them both, “Greg you know what’s going on now as well so I will say there will be times I’m going to need your help.” “My help?” Greg wondered. Nick nodded, “Yes, yours and everyone’s help, this won’t be an easy disease to fight and I will have days were it will be bad and it won’t be easy on us but to know our family supports us will help.”
“You know you’ve got my help Nick whatever you need.” Greg stated. “I know I do and I appreciate it. Now tell me what you did today?” Nick asked.
“Well before coming back here we went for a walk in the park and we ended up in a play ground where I pushed Joanie on the swings and I made her laugh and smile.”
Nick grinned knowing Greg had done what he’d asked.
From the kitchen Sarah watched the scenes between them unfold and tears flooded her eyes. “He loves her so much even when she doesn’t understand,” she said to herself as she continued to watch his reactions as they talked. Seeing him move his back she walked over.
“Can I join this party?” She asked grinning. “Get over here." He replied pulling her down to sit in his lap. “Oh seriously, Nick please!!” Greg whined making a horrible face. Sarah playfully hit at Greg as Nick laughed. Sarah kissed his cheek then whispered in his ear, “You back’s really hurting isn’t it?” then she looked at him. He nodded as he threaded his fingers through hers.
“Okay, sweetie, I’m tired, and I’m sure you’re getting that way. I’m ready to go, are you?,” she asked, getting up from Nick’s lap. When he tried to stand he couldn’t since his back was getting stiff. Joanie put her arm around him on one side to help him and Sarah.
“I’ll be back in a minute Greg.” she replied, he nodded then grabbed the pillow and went out with them and watched them walk to the car. Reaching the car Greg threw the pillow in the front seat then went to wait by the bench for Joanie.
Nick turned to face Joanie and hugged her to him kissing her hair. She hugged him back tightly then looked up in his eyes. Smiling, he softly replied, “I love you cutie very much…I’m not going to leave you.” Joanie & Greg watched as they left.
Back inside, everyone stood around the counter in silence thinking about what they’d heard tonight. Greg stood behind Joanie with his arms around her while Lindsay stood between Nate and her dad and she had a hand on Kevin’s shoulder.
On the way home, Nick turned to look at her from the passage seat, “There is one more person I have to tell honey.” Sarah glanced at him. This was the hardest for him to say, “I need to tell Josh.”