Two hours later, James had finished his IV drip and looked much better-more alert, more himself.

The doctor recommended that he stay at the hospital for observation, but James wouldn't hear of it.

In the end, the doctor wrote him a prescription and told him to stick to light, easily digestible meals for the next few days.

While Briony was waiting at the pharmacy, her phone buzzed. Stewart was calling her.

Three calls came in a row. She didn't answer any of them.

Finally, Stewart sent a text.

**[Irwin misses you.]**

Staring at the message, Briony hesitated for a moment. Then she sighed and called back.

The line was picked up almost instantly, and Irwin's excited little voice piped up, "Mom!"

Briony's voice softened. "Irwin, have you been good?"

"I have! But Mom, you haven't called me in days!" Irwin complained. "You promised—even when you traveled for work, you'd always call or video chat with

me!"

been really busy

be like this! Even when your work was crazy, you never forgot about

head

I'm sorry. I love you just as much as ever. I just really haven't had a free moment to call or video chat, that's

but he still comes to the hospital every day to be with me. Mom, isn't your job as important as Dad's? How come you're too busy for

pressed her lips together, brow

was just a child and didn't understand, but his words still stung.

life had been chaos. She was running herself ragged and even fell ill a few times, so she had to leave Irwin with

but he'd always promised her he'd be good, that he'd listen to his grandmother, and that she should rest

Irwin

a little hurt. "Are

snapping back to the moment with a weary sigh. “Be good, okay? I'll bring you a

presents!" Irwin grumbled. "I just miss your cooking! I haven't had your food

get back, I'll make you all your favorite

have to make a lot!" Irwin insisted. "I want your slow-cooked pork and your teriyaki chicken

"Deal."

are

a moment. "About

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