Page 18 of Saving Soul

With an abrupt nod, she turned her back and unzipped her suitcase.

My brow rose as Nora linked her arm with mine and guided me into the hall. “Mrs. Fredrich is very old school,” she whispered once we were out of earshot. “So, best keep your interaction to a minimum.”

“Great. Another person to avoid this weekend.”

“It’s a big house. You’ll be fine.” Nora poked her head into Liam’s room. “Liam’s still asleep, so can you tell him to behave while I’m gone? He always stirs her up.”

“I will, but I think he likes causing trouble.”

“That he does.” She shook her head with a chuckle. “His body may be failing him, but his mind is as sharp as a tack.”

“I’ve noticed.” Liam and I shared an instant connection the day we met, making me feel like I’d known him my entire life—or perhaps in a different one.

“You try and enjoy yourself this weekend, Missy. You’re off the clock, remember?”

I gave her a half smile. “Yeah, we’ll see.”

“At least go for a swim. You’ve been eyeing that swimming pool all week.”

“I’ll definitely try.” I was desperate to get into the water again.

“Well, Tico is going to take off without me if I don’t leave now,” she said, squeezing my arm before dragging her suitcase down the hall. “I’ll see you Monday.”

After saying goodbye to Nora, I returned to Liam’s room. “Oh, you’re awake now.”

Liam’s drawn face brightened. “I must’ve sensed you coming.”

“Would you like me to tell your grandson you’re awake? He arrived a short time ago.”

“No, no.” Liam shook his head with a sleepy smile. “He’ll come when he’s ready.”

“Oh, okay.” I moved closer. “Did you have a nice rest? Perhaps our stroll through the gardens was too much for you this morning.”

“Nonsense. The fresh air makes me feel more alive.”

I adjusted his pillows as he sat up. “I know I don’t officially work weekends, but if you ever want to go for a walk or have me read to you, I’d be happy to, anytime.”

“You’re a sweet girl, Cassidy, but you’re young. You should be out enjoying yourself.”

“I plan to go to the beach tomorrow,” I said, completely aware of how lame I sounded. I had no intention of wasting a single cent shopping or socializing while I was staying in the Hamptons. I was here with the sole purpose of saving enough money to move back to LA and start a new life with Finn.

“Good. Max will arrange for my driver to take you.”

“Thank you, Li—” My mouth snapped shut when the weekend nurse trooped into the room and whipped Liam’s chart off the end of his bed.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Harlow.” She barely glanced my way. “It’s time for your medication.” She held out his tablets in a tiny paper cup along with a glass of water.

“Lovely to see you, too, Mrs. Fredrich.” He unwillingly took them from her hands and did as told.

She watched his mouth until she was convinced he’d swallowed them.

“I’d like you to meet Cassidy Ryan, my end-of-life doula.”

She lifted her gaze to mine but didn’t smile. “Pleased to meet you, Cassidy,” she uttered before dropping her eyes back to the chart. “I’ll let your family know you’re awake.” With the pivot of her foot, she marched out of the room.

I stared at the empty door. “Wow. She really is serious.”

“I’ll wear her down.”