Page 203 of Remorseless

“Dr. Morly thinks he’s suffering migraines,” Meggie said. “He doesn’t know if it’s a combination of the drugs and subsequent overdose or stress. Christopher invited him out today and CJ accepted. I…that was…I can’t…hearing my son overdosed…that moment was horrific.”

“Receiving that phone call from Roxy was horrific,” the doctor agreed. “She was inconsolable. Knox took the phone and told me what happened.”

Meggie shuddered. “I almost lost my potato. I don’t know how I would’ve gotten over his death.” She sighed. “But this isn’t about me. It wouldn’t have been about me. Losing CJ would’ve destroyed Christopher. Our other children. CJ survived. I must carry on, so my family can get back to normal. It’s not about me. It’s about CJ. What he needs. Wants. I’ve resigned myself that he’ll probably drop out of high school…” She shrugged, pretending everything was okay.

As long as he was alive, it was. Nothing else mattered.

“I didn’t give birth to him and his near death has affected me, Meggie. I don’t know how many times in the past days I’ve discussed the dangers of drugs with my kids. I check in with Roxy five times a day, asking about CJ. But you’re wrong, sweetheart. It’s as much about him as it is about your husband and other children. As it is aboutyou.”

“But—”

“The first thing I need you to do is stop minimizing your own feelings and importance. The veil of trust has been removed from CJ. He’ll be more cautious. As his mother, grieve for his lost innocence but rejoice that he’s alive. Regarding Jo, if you want to keep her, spend time with her every day. On your own. Drown out the noise. Pay attention toher. If that doesn’t work, we’ll get you into counseling.”

That might help her entire family. “Tabitha thinks I need alone time in a secluded cabin.”

“I don’t likeher, but I like her idea. You taking care of you, and thinking through everything. Take time to meditate and relax.”

“I’d want Christopher with me. I’m angry with him right now, although I’m sure we’ll make up on Valentine’s. He always makes it really special. However, I think if he and I have some time to ourselves, we can get back on track. I can’t focus on me, until I attend tous.”

“That should be the other way around.”

“I know. But I love him so much. He’s floundering because I am. I’m wavering because he is.”

“Jo is still weeks away from her release date. Take your husband to that secluded cabin. When you come back, let’s talk about therapy.”

“I like that plan.”

“Now about your hysterectomy. For now, I’ve sent the prescription for your pills in to your pharmacist. Rebel wants to start out with shots. Mattie wants the implant. Roxy talked to Kendall to make sure she was okay with that. After, she signed the consent forms since they are minors. We thought you were busy scheduling the surgery.”

Meggie didn’t answer.

“Rebel is quite excited about her first date.”

“I’m excited for her. I’m going to visit Jo for a bit, while Roxy takes the girls to lunch, then we’re going shopping.”

“She said on the day of, you two have planned a spa day?”

“A mother-daughter day,” Meggie confirmed. “Just the two of us this time.”

“You sound as excited as she is.”

“I am. I didn’t get to experience a date with a high school crush and all that entails. If I had, I would’ve had to sneak to do it.”

When Jordan stood, she started to rise as well, but the doctor shook her head.

“Wait here.”

Two minutes after Jordan left her office, Roxy walked in. She wore a sequined maxi shirtdress with a high split, stunning even in her fifties. Her layered haircut showcased her fine bone structure.

She stared at Meggie with warm brown eyes, then came to her, squeezed her shoulder and sat in the same chair Jordan originally used.

“Hey, sugar.”

“Hey.”

“Talk to me.”

“I’m taking care of CJ.”