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“I don’t know how else to keep her safe.”

She exhales and stands, walking around the desk to face me. “I’ve heard it theorized Alzheimer’s might be the brain’s way of forgetting memories too painful to recall.”

“Are you saying I’m at risk for developing Alzheimer’s?”

“I suppose if that theory is true, we’re all in danger of developing it.” Leaning against the desk, she crosses her arms. “What are you trying to forget, Grayson?”

I’m uncomfortable answering her, but she’s not letting me off the hook. The clock on her desk ticks louder. I look over her shoulder at the window, where the snowflakes drift past. My chest is tight with the answer, and when I glance up, her dark eyes are placid as a lake.

“I don’t know.” Clearing my throat, I shift in my seat. “Guilt? Depression?”

She nods. “Depression is anger turned inward. Who are you angry at?”

“Danny… myself.” For being so selfish.

She takes a small book from the pocket of her apron. It’s a leather-bound journal. “Start writing good things about yourself, about Danny, even if it’s only one thing. Try to do it every day.”

“What about my problem? The PTSD?”

Her lips press together and she walks around the desk again, pausing in front of her large window. “You have to bend with the ups and downs in life. God gives us partners to help us carry our burdens.” A few moments pass, and she returns to her chair. “If it were me, I would let Drew decide what she can and cannot handle. Remember the words of the lord, ‘Love covers a multitude of sins.’”

I’ve heard the words before, but I still have doubts. “And her father?”

“He has to conquer his own demons. You can’t do it for him.”

I open the cover of the journal and place the very important papers inside. “I should go and check on the estate.”

“I’m sure you’ll be very pleased.” She gives me a nod. “Just remember what you learned here. You can’t live without love.”

Chapter 31

Drew

They moved my father to a nursing home. His doctor said the damage wasn’t as extensive as she’d feared, but she hopes by keeping him in a controlled environment, they might be able to help him with his addiction.

Speaking of help, I had to return to work. After being out a week, I see that Ruby is right. While he’s still sure the government is wiretapping all our phones and the current president is channeling Richard Nixon, his friendship with Sylvia Green seems to have given him a focus for his life.

I look down at my past notes on the computer screen as he tells me about their exploits around town, and I can’t help a sad little smile. Lifting my pen, I write slowly. No longer an outsider.

While I wouldn’t characterize their relationship as anything more than friendly, I know they’ve developed a fondness for each other. Love is healing my client.

During my lunch hour, I walk down to the garage. I’ve driven past it several times, straining my eyes for any sign of Gray. He hasn’t come back since the night of our dinner.

Billy, however, has been keeping the place up and running, which gives me an idea. He’s talking to Remington Key when I tap lightly on the open door.

“Miss Drew.” Both men turn and walk to where I’m standing. Billy’s face is lined with concern. “You’re not having trouble with the Jag?”

“Oh, no.” Shaking my head, I smile up at them. “I was just… I just was wondering…” Shit. I’m going to look like a crazy stalker.

Or a dumped girlfriend who can’t take a hint.

Is that what I’ve become? My stomach cramps at the notion.

“Gray had to go back to Delaware.” Billy doesn’t need help reading my mind. “He said his aunt died.”

“He called you?” The thought of him calling Billy and ignoring me is even worse than not knowing anything.

“Not since he left. He didn’t even call really. He just sent me a text.”