La Novels
Chapter 43
43 When In Rome (Winona)
"So, you think we can go home by her birthday in three weeks?" I ask Dr. Green because I don't want to do anything that might set Abby's recovery back. "I wanted to throw her a little party."
"The defect in the heart wall is okay for now. As she grows, and her heart grows, it will need constant adjustments. Hopefully we can get her to a point where there will be no further deterioration meaning a heart transplant won't be needed." "I understand."
"This is going to mean operations and adjustments for much of her childhood. I think a birthday party 'might be just the thing to keep her spirits up. Don't overdo it though. She needs a lot of peace and quiet.
But don't keep her cooped up inside. Get her out in the fresh air and sun as much as possible. Let her be a
kid."
"I certainly will. Thank you, Doctor Green. I owe her life to you."
"I'm just part of it. She's a lucky kid to have such a dedicated support system."
With that happy news, he leaves.
"Hey. I just saw the doctor leaving. How is she?" Phillip whispers from beside me now.
"What are you doing here?"This text is property of Nô/velD/rama.Org.
some/
"Lunch break. It's been impossible to concentrate knowing Abby's surgery was on. I've delegated some tasks to the trainees and taken a couple of hours off."
"You're so thoughtful. She's ok. She's going to be able to have a little party at our townhouse."
"That's great news."
I sigh and hug him. "It's going to be a long road ahead, but we'll get there."
He kisses me on top of the head. "We will indeed."
The nursing staff come in to do her vitals and make sure her meds are doing their job.
"Let's leave them to it. Come on." I say to Phillip, and we walk out to the kitchen.
"I'll make coffee," he says. "There's some very strong rumors around the office this morning."
I'm not sure I'm ready for the pettiness but I guess it's a break from life and death situations. "I'm sure don't want to know but tell me anyway."
"Apparently, Jayden and Ashlyn were married Saturday afternoon."
"Really? Wow. Good for them. The words come out but I'm not sure how this actually makes me feel. I mean, it makes sense because they're having a baby.
We still have to set a date. Maybe we should just go get it done too."
I look at Phillip carefully. I'm not sure if that's what he wants or if he thinks it might be what I want. "I'm int
43 When in Rome 42 When in
no rush. I'd like to have a proper wedding. With Abby as our flower girl, surrounded by those we love. It doesn't have to be big."
"That sounds perfect."
"What about your family? Do you have a best man in mind?"
Phillip had never talked much about his family.
"Not really. I haven't spoken to my family for a few years. I was adopted. I mean, don't get me wrong, I had the best family upbringing ever. But it just finding out everything you thought was true about you was a lie really rattled me." "Oh my god, Phillip. Why didn't you say something sooner? Here's me with all my shit and you're going through this all alone."
He hands me a coffee. "I'm not alone. I have you and Abby."
"Perhaps it's time to mend some bridges."
"You could be right. First, let's get Abby home and stronger and then we'll talk about our wedding attendants and guest list."
"Do you know who your biological parents are?"
He shakes his head. But he avoids eye contact. I mean it's his business.
"No wonder you have such an understanding of my situation. You didn't hesitate to be a father to Abby. You've experienced it first-hand."
"I just wish I'd known sooner. I get that things happen but not telling me really made it so much harder later."
"I think that's why I'm ready to tell Abby she does have a dad. Even though Judy is ridiculous, she is still her grandmother. Maybe now they are married, Judy can stop this obsession with getting me out of his life and just enjoy being a grandmother." "You know, you always see good in everyone. Even those who did you so wrong."
"Everyone deserves a chance to be happy."
"Winona, no matter what happens. Just know I always truly loved you and Abby. You have to know that."
I look at him. What a strange thing to say. I guess the thought of contacting his family again has him spooked. Families always had stuff you never want anyone to know. "One thing I could never doubt is your love for us, Phillip."
He looks visibly relieved, and I've never had a moment where I'd question why he's so worried, till now.
"Phillip, if there's anything you need to tell me. Now is the time. If you've changed your mind about getting married, that's fine. It won't change anything between us. I proposed because I wanted you to know and be secure that my feelings for you are real." "No, I'm okay. We're okay."
"I just don't want you ditching me at the altar or anything."
43 When in Rome
My cell phone buzzes in my pocket. I pulled it out. It's Lisa texting.
L: You'll never believe this!
W: Jayden and Ashlyn got married?
L: Damn, you know, How?
W: P
W: Phillip overheard office gossip
L: Judy was her witness
W: She finally got what she wanted
L: You ok?
W: Better than ok. Maybe I can live my life now!
L: Sweet. How's Ab?
W: Fragile but getting stronger
I look at Phillip and smile and nod my head. He's offering to make me a sandwich. He has all the stuff out
on the counter.
Life could be so much worse right now. I think it's time we share a bedroom when we get back home.
I glance back at my phone
L: Lance stayed over 2 nights in a row
I send her a line of WOW emojis
When in Rome, do as the Romans do, I guess. Move the fuck on.
44 Doing The Right Thing
44 Doing The Right Thing