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“Everyone. Is. Fine,” Cian repeats, slowly and firmly. “There was a car accident. Someone hit us at an intersection. It was justme and Scarlett. We did go to the hospital but were released after Scarlett’s arm was cast.”
“Her—” I cut myself off, not wanting to panic Ruby.
“She broke her arm. One of the bones in her forearm. It’s not a big deal, except that it’s her right arm, so she’s going to need some help for a while and won’t be able to work at the shop. But we’re heading home, and we’re still planning to go open the moms’ community in Omaha in two weeks.”
I blow out a breath.
He sounds fine. It’s a broken arm. Both Cian and I have had broken bones and we’re fine.
If this was more serious, Cian wouldn’t be the one calling me. And I’m sure Jonah and Iris will both be checking in with me soon.
Everyone. Is. Fine.
“Okay,” I say. “Ruby and I are in Louisiana, so, I’ll meet you in Emerald.”
“You’re in Louisiana?” he asks. “Are you in Autre?”
I can hear the smile in his voice.
“We are.”
“That’s great! Hey, you don’t have to rush back. We’re okay.”
Except that April and Elliot haven’t fully moved out, and…
Cian and Scarlett were in a car accident. And in the hospital. And I wasn’t there.
Suddenly, my stomach knots and my lungs refuse to inflate. Jesus. They were in acar accident. They could have been seriously injured. They could have…died.
I squeeze my eyes shut.
I absolutely cannot imagine a world that doesn’t have Cian O’Grady in it.
I hate even picturing Cian hurt or in pain.
I’ve seen him banged up and even with broken bones.
And I’ve fucking hated it.
Something worse is impossible to even conceive.
And while that was happening, I was thousands of miles away.
A part of my mind, the rational part, understands that I couldn’t have necessarily prevented the accident even if I’d been there. But my rational mind isn’t always in charge when it comes to the people I love.
I need to be therenow. I need to see for myself that they’re fine. And take care of whatever they need to have taken care of.
I respect that Cian is Scarlett’s husband now, but he’s not exactly an expert in caregiving. He’s been the recipient of most care. I just need to be sure everything really is okay.
It’s my bloody job.
“I’ll be there as soon as I can,” I tell him.
“Okay. We’re getting on the plane in about an hour.”
I do a quick calculation. “Okay. See you soon.”
We disconnect, and I meet Ruby’s gaze.