Page 84

“Climb up on the bed and give Grandpa a big kiss. Right here.” He pointed to his cheek. “That’s the best medicine of all.”

Cassie did just that and his dad closed his eyes, absorbing all her love. Then she climbed down, and grabbed on to his hand.

“Don’t you worry about me,” he told her straight out. “I’m not going to miss a one of your baseball games.”

Cassie chuckled a bit.

“Cass, how about you keep Grandpa company while I talk to Taylor outside,” he said.

“Okay, Daddy.”

Taylor rose from her chair. “Joe, it’s good to see you feeling better.”

“Your visit had a lot to do with it. I appreciate it.”

“Of course. You just get better now. I know Cassie will watch over you carefully.” She bent to kiss his cheek. The old man blushed and Coop had to admit, Taylor sure had a way about her.

“Okay, enough of that,” Coop said.

“My son’s jealous.”

“I doubt that,” she said, smiling.

“Don’t doubt it, Taylor. It’s a fact.”

“Glad to see you’ve got your ego back, Dad.”

“Never lost it.” He winked at Taylor.

Coop shook his head. Then he put his hand to Taylor’s back and led her out of the room. Once they were in the hallway, Coop stopped to face her. “Thanks for this, Taylor. I appreciate your help with my dad. Sorry I didn’t get over to fix that pipe for you.”

“You had more important things to do. I’ll call a plumber.”

He nodded. “You’re good in a crisis.”

“I am?”

“Yeah, you kept me calm, and—”

“Held your hand.”

“You did that too and kept my mind off, well, certain things.”

“Don’t forget the muffins I baked. I mean, as long as you’re complimenting me, might as well get it all in.”

“Right, you make a mean banana muffin, lady.”

“I know.”

“I, uh, took your advice about telling Cassie the truth. She was upset, but it was the right thing to do.”

“She would’ve known if you tried to cover it up anyway. She’s a smart girl. And I’m sure you’re both relieved it wasn’t anything real serious.”

“Yep, that’d be right.” Coop sighed and rubbed the back of his neck, thinking. This is where it got real sticky. He had to say goodbye to Taylor. She’d be leaving soon anyway. “So when do you go back to New York?” he asked.

She blinked, and color drained from her face. “What?”

“You know, that dream job you were offered. You are taking it, aren’t you?”