Taking Chances

By E.A. Weston

What do you do when the girl you love stops breathing in your arms?

When life kicks you while you are down?

You get up and fight, fight like hell!

After struggling to put their pasts behind them and take a chance on each other, Knox and Bailey begin to move forward in their relationship.

But the past always has a way of catching up with you.......

On a trip back home to Grove for spring break, that’s just what happens to Bailey. Her past catches up with her, the sender of the dead roses reveals himself while making good on his threats. Sending Knox Porter into a place he never thought to be again...sitting in a graveyard, this time with the still body of the love of his life in his arms.

Join Bailey, Knox, Max and Paige as their lives evolve and change through out this book. Each dealing with their own difficulties and each finding solutions that will, either bring them closer together or tear them apart.

• Language: English
• Publisher: E.A. Weston
• Release date: May 1, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310045110

E.A. Weston

Elizabeth was born and raised in Dublin Ireland but lives in Southern California.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Knox

---

Watching my brother lay in the hospital bed is torture and I wish I could help him in some way. The sound of the breathing machine and heart monitor are a constant reminder that he is not out of the woods yet. I can’t believe this happened; the night was going great. We rang in the New Year with our girls, which was a far better night than last year. Last year I was still a bit of a mess. Although Max was helping me, I didn’t want to celebrate anything, never mind a new year. I hadn’t thought I would have a happy new year back then.

I’m tired and pissed off - my best friend and only brother is laying there fighting for his life. I can hear Bailey shuffle around behind me, she is restless too, but won’t leave. Max’s hand is limp in mine, but I can’t let it go. I need him to know I am here beside him, waiting for him to wake up; we have so much to do still. I watch his face, looking for any sign of movement, but nothing happens. The sudden sound of Bailey’s gasp makes me turn to check on her. Following her line of sight, I see him and I can feel the blood drain from my face.

Hi, son, he says to me as if that will make it all better.

What are you doing here?

He nods towards Max.

I got a call from the hospital. I am here to be with my sons. He is still standing by the door, unmoving watching me with wary eyes.

Yeah well, maybe we don’t need you. I grind through my teeth.

Maybe. Maybe not but I am not leaving one of my sons to fight for his life alone, he says walking to the other side of the bed taking Max’s other hand.

I am still pissed off with him, but Max is his kid so I can’t do or say anything to stop him. Bailey walks over to me, looking a bit scared.

Hey, I think I will go let you get caught up. She nods towards my dad who notices her. I pull her out of the room, away from his fucking prying eyes.

Okay, darlin, I will let you know when I am home. I kiss her on the head hugging her for dear life.

I love you, Knox. Call me and I will come get you, okay? she says looking at me with concern.

Okay. I nod kissing her again.

She walks away slowly like it's too much effort to move her legs. I hope she will be okay to drive.

Turning, I go back to Max where my dad is still in the same position, staring down at my brother. I have questions for him, but I am too angry to ask them.

Knox, what happened? he asks as I stop at the other side of the bed,

I don’t know. I wasn’t there. I need to find Paige and ask her, she was with him. He looks over at me; it’s like looking at myself in twenty years.

Who is Paige and how can we find her? I want to know what happened to my son.

I throw myself into the chair letting out a breath.

Her parents came to take her home, but I will get Bailey to call her later. I am sure she is upset considering it happened in front of her, I say to him with a bit of attitude, fuck him coming in here like he never wrecked our lives.

We both sit in silence, listening to the machines and watching Max. He looks so pale and half of his head is shaved. It looks fucking ridiculous; I will have to show him when he wakes up. I don’t know how long I am sitting here watching Max when a nurse walks in.

Visiting time is over gentlemen, she announces as she messes with the machines.

What? I ask her, looking at her like she just spoke a foreign language to me. Time to go, she snaps at me.

Nice, I say standing up. You don’t need to be so rude about it, I snap at her,

It’s okay, we are leaving now. When can we come back? my dad asks her and she glares at me for a few minutes.

Visiting hours are between one – four pm.

Checking my watch, I see it’s only eight in the morning. I am not going to call Bailey back so soon, so I’ll have to find a cab. Stopping at the desk, I ask a nurse for the number of a cab company and watch as she rummages through a pile of crap on the desk. She keeps looking at me through her eyelashes and I let out a sigh. I have no interest in her or flirting with her. I just want to go home to sleep.

Do you need a ride back to Georges? I hear from behind me,

Nope, I’ll get there myself. Still looking at the rummaging nurse, I swear she is just fucking around.

Knox, I haven’t seen you in over a year. I’d like if we could talk, he says stepping beside me.

I don’t think we have all that much to say to each other. Jesus, she is taking forever You know, forget it, I say to the nurse, walking away from the desk and through the doors.

Knox, wait, please.

I am exhausted and don’t need this shit right now,

Fine, take me home, I say, following him to his car. I sit in silence as he drives. I just want to rewind time, to go back to last night and ask my brother if he wanted a ride to Paige’s place.

Do you mind if we stop for coffee? he asks and I shrug because I really don’t give a shit right now.

He stops at a Cafe in downtown, which is actually across from Mortenson Engineering. Looking at the building shining in the morning sunlight reminds me of Bailey, my beautiful sunshine. The only good thing about today is that I know this year will have her in it, and hopefully many more. We walk into the Café, which surprisingly is nearly full. I find a table by the window and sit browsing the menu.

Can I take your order? I hear a chipper voice ask and, looking up I see none other than Red. Well well, I thought you were above manual labor? I ask, cocking my eyebrow at her.

Fuck you, what do you want? she sneers at me, holding her pen and notepad.

My dad is watching us with a smirk. I’ll have a coffee and the breakfast special, he announces, handing her the menu.

I purposely make her wait a few more minutes. I’ll have the same. I hand her my menu and she huffs.

Yeah you could have said that five minutes ago, asshole. She snaps the menu from me, walking away. What an evil piece of work.

My dad looks at me, laughing. He looks older, with more lines around his eyes and some gray at his temples.

Didn’t work out, huh? he asks.

Rolling my eyes I shake my head. No way, she wishes. My girlfriend punched her in the face and she is still mad I guess. He just laughs some more.

A few minutes of silence pass when a different waitress brings our coffees. Food will be a few more minutes, she says then walks away.

So how is school?

Really he is going to start with that,

Good, with the exception of a bad penny turning back up. I stir my coffee, watching him, but he looks like he doesn’t know anything.

What bad penny?

I snort; I can’t believe this guy.

Lindsey, the bad fucking penny.

He looks uncomfortable for a minute but recovers. I imagine she is, he says drinking his coffee.

Red brings our food over, dropping mine down so some of my eggs spill off the plate.

What the heck is wrong with you, Red? I ask and she places my dad’s plate down nicely.

I don’t know, asshole. What is wrong with me? she barks at me.

You have a bad attitude and I didn’t hit you, I say grabbing the ketchup.

No but your crazy girlfriend did and she stole my best friend too. So excuse me if I don’t fucking like any of you. She turns to walk away, but I grab her wrist.

Red, Bailey didn’t steal Paige away from you. Maybe if you treated her better, you’d still be friends. I tell her and she pulls her arm from my grasp.

Yeah right, as if that blow-in can be a better friend than me. Who is going to be here when she leaves and Paige is all alone?

I don’t get this chick; she is weird Max, I answer and she glares at me then walks away.

Is everything okay with her? my dad asks, watching us spar again.

I don’t know, she is fucking weird.

He doesn’t say anything more as we eat. I can feel my eyes closing and can barely finish my food.

Let’s get you home, he says, paying the check. Standing up, I get a head rush and have to wait for my eyes to adjust. You okay, son?

Fine! And don’t call me that, I say to him, walking towards the door.

You are still my son, Knox. As much as you hate me, you will always be my son. Climbing into his car, I ignore him. Otherwise, I won’t be able to stop myself from beating his ass again. He drives me to Uncle George’s house, pulling up outside and kills the engine.

Knox, do you want me to come get you, later on, my way to the hospital?

Why are you here, dad? If Max wasn’t laying in that hospital, would you have even turned up?

He looks through the window watching the trees sway in the breeze.

I have come here plenty of times over the last few months, but George told me to leave, said you didn’t want to see me, he says leaning his elbow on the window.

He never told us you came by, but he was probably right. I don’t think either of us would have wanted to see you, I say and he nods

What about now? he asks looking at me.

I don’t know, the jury is still out Opening the door I climb out.

I’ll get to the hospital myself later. I will have to go up the hill tonight anyway. He nods as I close the door and walk away.

He stays in the driveway for a few minutes before pulling away. I let the curtain drop as he pulls onto the street, grabbing my phone, I text Bailey.

Me: just home Darlin going to bed now. Love you.

Bailey: Ok babe I will come over later, what time?

Me: Going to see Max at one.

Bailey: Ok I will pick you up at 12.30 xxx

Me: ok xxx

Putting my phone on the pillow beside me, I close my eyes.

---

Bailey

---

I didn’t get much sleep and it’s noon when I get out of the shower. I have texted Paige, but she hasn’t replied at all. I look like hell. Dabbing some concealer under my eyes doesn’t really help, but at least, I don’t look like death warmed up anymore. I pull on my jacket as I walk into the kitchen.

Morning, sweetheart, late night? dad asks me.

I grab my dad’s travel cup from the cupboard filling it with coffee.

Oh, dad, it is a horrible start to the New Year, I sigh.

Already? It is only twelve hours in.

Yeah and about three hours in, someone ran over Max with their car. Now he is in a coma, I say, trying not to cry and ruin my bad eye cover up.

Jesus, Bailey, you should have called me. Is he going to be okay?

I shrug. I hope so, Dad, I really hope so. I am going to get Knox now, then go back to the hospital with him.

My dad stands up hugging me. I’m sorry, sweetheart, I hope he is okay.

I nod. Okay, I have to go.

Driving to Knox’s, takes me longer than usual because they have the hill down to one lane. Come on! I shout to the other, cars checking the time. As soon as I can go, I step on it, making it to his house just before one o’clock. Crap, he will be pissed. I just beep and wait for him. After about five minutes, I get out and ring the bell, no answer. He left, Shit. Taking out my phone, I call him,

Hello, he answers groggily.

Hi, babe, I am outside.

I hear him moving around. Shit I was asleep, look up, he says.

I step off the porch and look up. He opens his window, dropping his keys.

I’m jumping in the shower, he says out the window.

Letting myself in, I walk up the stairs and lay on his bed. His tux is draped over the chair at the desk with dirt on the knees from the road. I roll off the bed, deciding to get him something to wear. I grab a pair of faded jeans and a long sleeve shirt from the drawer just as he walks in.

Hey, Darlin’. He kisses me while drying his hair.

I can’t help myself; I have to touch his body, running my fingers from his chest to the towel line. I smile at him and he pulls me close, kissing me.

Later, Darlin’, he says against my lips.

I know I just wanted to touch you. I wink at him and pull off his towel.

Pervert. He shakes his head, smiling at me.

Handing him his clothes, I sit on the bed watching him dress.

So how was the encounter? I ask while he pulls on his boots.

Okay, I guess. I still want to hit him all over again but Max is his son, so I can’t do shit about him being here. He stands up to fix his hair and grabs his phone from the pillow.

Ready, darlin’? I jump off the bed linking his fingers with mine.

We reach the hospital by one thirty and his father is already there sitting with Max when we walk into the room.

He looks up at us. Hi.

Knox nods and I give a weak smile because I am not sure if I should say hello; I don’t want to betray Knox. Knox sits beside Max while I stand behind his chair and his dad looks at me.

Would you like to sit? he asks, standing up.

I wave my hand. No thank you, Mr. Porter, I say in reply.

Knox takes my hand, sitting me on his lap. Sorry, Darlin’, I wasn’t thinking. He wraps his arms around me, holding me close.

I look at Max lying there I can’t even fathom it. He looks like a little boy but with tattoos. No one says anything until the doctor comes in about an hour later.

Mr. Porter? he shakes their dad’s hand then Knox’s.

Max is looking better, but I want him to remain in the coma until all the swelling goes down. I will be moving him to a private room tomorrow, and he will have to go through a lot of physical therapy when the casts come off. His pelvis will take the longest to heal so he will be here a while.

We all stare at him, then Mr. Porter asks, How long is a while? the Doctor flicks through some papers.

A couple of months, depending on how he is in physical therapy.

Knox’s dad rakes his fingers through his hair, so now I know where they get that gesture from.

Okay, thank you, Doctor.

We all stare at Max, who will have a rough road ahead of him. I feel Knox shake and when I turn to look at him, I see tears rolling down his cheeks.

Babe, he will be fine; he has us, I whisper, wiping his tears with my hand.

He takes a shuddering breath. I hope so Bailey, he croaks and my heart hurts for him so much as I pull him onto my, chest giving what comfort I can.

I am more tired than I thought, and keep yawning.

You can go home, Bailey, if you’re tired, Knox says, cupping my cheek.

No, I am fine. I am waiting for you. You are staying with me tonight.

He smirks at me. Am I now?

I nod in answer, yawning again. I am going to try Paige again. I’ll pick up some cafeteria sludge on my way back. kissing him quickly, I get up to leave. Mr. Porter, would you like a coffee? I ask as Knox shoots me a look.

Yes please, he answers, taking out his wallet.

I’ve got it. I wave, walking away.

Once I am outside, the cold air wakes me up like a slap on the face. I swipe my phone and call Paige. Finally, she answers

Hello, she says, sounding terrible.

Hi, Paige, how are you?

I hear her sniffle. Okay. Jesus, she sounds far from okay.

Do you want me to come over? I ask, hoping she is okay.

No I am at my parent’s house, the police have just left. They wanted another statement. She sniffles again,

Paige, if you need me I am here, okay? Don’t go through this alone.

I know, Bailey thanks. How is Max?

Now it’s my turn to sigh. He is in a coma, has broken legs and pelvis and swelling on the brain.

I hear her sob. It’s my fault, Bailey, it’s all my fault.

Oh my god, what is she saying?

No, Paige, it’s not. It was an accident.

She is crying harder now. No it’s my fault, she says before hanging up.

I don’t know what to think, she sounds in a bad way. I stay outside for another ten minutes just to people watch before heading to the cafeteria. The coffee is not actually that bad, and I sip on mine as I walk back into Max’s room with two more cups. Knox and his father are sitting silently, both watching Max as the ventilator swooshes.

Coffee’s here, I say, putting the cups on the bed tray. They both turn their wary faces towards me. I spoke to Paige, I announce, and Knox’s dad stands quickly.

What did she say? Does she have information?

I shake my head. No, she said the police came and took another statement from her, but that was it, I lie.

He is standing, looking at me like I have just fed him a load of bull.

Did she say anything else? Is she coming here to see him? To even let us know what’s going on? He holds his arms out from his sides looking at me for answers I don’t have, then Knox gets up to stand in front of me.

Don’t interrogate my girlfriend. She wasn’t fucking there, she was with me.

Mr. Porter sighs, I am sorry, forgive me. I am just trying to find out what happened. Je looks at me apologetically.

I understand, I say still, hiding half behind Knox.

Knox turns to me. Thanks for calling her, Darlin’. Is she okay?

I shake my head. No, she is in bits. She said she is staying with her parents for now. Knox smooth’s my ponytail while drinking his coffee looking at me. You okay? I whisper, he nods then rolls his eyes.

Chapter 2

3weeks later

Max

---

My head feels like it’s trapped below a ton of bricks. I can’t move my body and I don’t know where the hell I am. All I can remember is Paige crying, standing in front of me as she told me her news. I was holding her hand as we crossed the street to campus.

You okay, angel? You’ve been acting weird for a while now. Are you looking to get rid of me already? I teased her.

What! No, Max, I don’t want to get rid of you but you might want out, she said, looking sad.

Hey, what is it, Paige? Tell me, I asked, stopping in the middle of the road; there are no cars around tonight anyway.

Paige has her head down looking at her feet and I can hear her sniffle. She is starting to worry me now. Maybe her ex is back in the picture.

Lifting her chin I make her look at me. Tell me please, I plead wiping away her tears.

I’m late, she whispers.

Late for what, angel? It’s three in the morning. I smile, but she shakes her head as more tears run down her face.

No, Max, I’m late, as in late late.

I have no idea what this chick is talking about; she is not making any sense. Taking off my jacket, I wrap it around her.

Paige, late? I question.

She takes a deep breath. My period is late, she says and looks at me.

My heart stops in my chest, fuck! How the fuck is that possible.

Are you sure? We were careful all the time.

I am stunned I can’t believe this. My whole future is down the drain now; no business with Knox, who is going to fucking kill me.

I am going to the doctor tomorrow to get a blood test but yes, I am sure.

She snaps me out of my own insane ramblings. I can see she is scared and I am not helping matters, so I take her in my arms.

I will go with you. We will be okay. If we are pregnant, we will have a few decisions to make, but we will be okay.

I kiss her head trying to comfort her as much as myself, what the fuck did I do?

Max! Paige shouts, pulling away from me.

I turn to see two bright lights heading for us. I push Paige as hard as I can to move her just as the car hits me. I feel the bones in my legs crunch before the pain paralyzes me. I feel my body float into the air; it all happens in slow motion - The stars, the pain as I bounce off the window, the stars again then the road and blackness…

---

Opening my eyes hurts; it’s like they are glued together. I try to lift my hand, but it’s too heavy. I can hear beeping and figure it must be my phone. I manage to crack open one eye only to be hit with a bright light - what the fuck, Knox? I am going to kick his ass for messing with me. I know I drank last night but Jesus, not that much. I try my eyes again even though I know the light is waiting for me. Opening them I call out to Knox; he is fucking dead when I find out what he has done to me.

I guess Bailey did bring my old brother back; the one who likes to play practical jokes on people.

Knox, motherfucker! I see his face appear above me. What did you do to me? I croak out.

Hey don’t talk, bro. Just wait a sec, he says and takes off.

Don’t talk! What the hell is doing now? I am getting really pissed and I try to sit up but pain radiates through my body, causing me to scream out. I can just about see Knox through my tears when he is back by my side, looking worried.

What is going on, Knox?

I feel his hand in mine so I squeeze it and he lifts my hand to his chest. Max, you are in the hospital. Take it easy the doctor is on the way.

I shake my head. No, Knox. Paige, is she okay? I can only manage a whisper

Yeah bro, she is okay. Just hang on a minute.

I can see a doctor and a nurse come in. The nurse is pushing Knox away from me, but I grip his hand.

Knox, Knox, I call.

It’s okay, Max. I’m here; they are just going to check you, okay?

He lets my hand go and I can feel my panic rising. No, Knox, not okay, I say as the nurse finally moves him away.

The doctor shines a light in my eyes, making me flinch while the nurse is poking and prodding me.

Get away from me! I shout at her, trying to get up.

Knox is beside me again. Calm down, Max, he says, holding my shoulders.

I don’t know what the fuck is going on here, but I grab his arms, holding on to him like he is a life raft and beg him with my eyes not to leave me.

I’ve got you, bro, I’ve got you, he says with tears in his eyes.

You’re scaring me, Knox. I can’t feel my legs, I whisper as my own tears fall.

He leans down wrapping his arms around me. It’s okay, Max. We will get through this together, okay?

What the fuck is he saying here? Are my legs gone? Can I not walk?

Max I am Doctor Murphy. The doctor speaks and I look over I see him and see him watching my brother and me. I just nod, refusing to let go of Knox like a two-year-old with his mama. You were in an accident on New Years Eve, do you remember?

I nod as Knox lifts himself up, still maintaining a firm grip on my hand.

Well you got some serious injuries and we had to put you in a medical coma for the past three weeks.

Three weeks? What? I look around in confusion.

Knox, what the hell? No that was last night, I say but Knox shakes his head.

You had swelling on the brain so we had to make sure it came down by itself before waking you up. You have two broken legs and a broken pelvis, Dr. Murphy says and he is not making this any better.

Will I walk? I ask, squeezing Knox’s hand.

Yes with some therapy, but it will be a rough road, the doctor answers; I just nod.

Okay, can I talk to my brother now? I ask and both Dr. Murphy and the nurse leave.

Jesus, Max, I thought I’d never hear your asshole voice again. Knox grabs me, hugging me.

I know bro, I say and he pulls back wiping his eyes on his arm.

What happened? Do you remember?

I nod, looking at him. Where’s Paige? Is she okay?

Knox sits on the bed beside me. She is with her parents. I haven’t seen her, she doesn’t come to classes anymore.

I cover my face with my hands trying to hold it together. I fucked up, Knox. I really fucked up.

He takes my hands away. What do you mean? he asks, holding a straw for me. I sip the water, which is nasty and warm.

She told me that night she might be pregnant, I say looking at him, waiting for an explosion to come but it doesn’t.

Is she for sure or just late?

I don’t know what the hell to think. She said late, but she also said she was sure.

Knox runs his hand through his hair. Well no one has seen her in weeks so we need to find out if she is or not, he says and I can see the disappointment in his eyes.

I’m sorry, Knox. I was careful, I swear. I know I fucked everything up now.

He pats my cheek. Don’t worry about it. Our plans are still in place; they just might take a little longer. I know he is trying to be positive, but I don’t see it working at all.

Hey, can I have my phone?

Knox frowns. It got smashed. I’ll get you a new one.

My heart sinks. That was a new one. Jesus, can this shit get any worse? I groan.

Yeah, bro, it sure can. Knox sounds wary so I look at him with raised eyebrows. Okay, do you want the bad news or the fucking bad news?

Awe, Knox, what now? I don’t know how much more bad news I can take.

Well, let’s start with the bad news. He claps my shoulder.

Okay, so the bad news is your brand new $500 phone is gone, your girl may be with child and you only have half your hair.

I am listening to him rattle on until I hear the last part and my hands fly to head, feeling my hair.

What the fuck, Knox! I shout and he laughs at me, taking a picture with his phone and turns it so I can see myself.

I look like shit. I have half a shaved head; the remains of two black eyes and my lips are cracked and dry. Handing Knox his phone back, I sigh.

Bring me a razor bro please. He nods, smiling at me. And what is the fucking bad news? I ask, not really wanting to hear any more.

He lets out a long breath. Dad is here. He has been since New Year’s Eve. I am stunned, my mouth gaping like a fish as I look at my brother. He nods.

So how many stitches did you give him this time? And why is he not in the bed next to me?

Knox laughs, making me laugh which hurts like a mother.

Owe don’t make me laugh, I say through my teeth.

Sorry, bro. No, I honestly couldn’t be bothered. I just wanted to make sure you were okay.

Are you sure, Knox? I know we didn’t leave on good terms with him.

He looks at the wall for a long time before answering.

Yeah, I don’t want to hear what he has to say about that day; I just want to move on with my life. I have you and Bailey and that’s all I need. He shrugs, messing with the zipper on his hoodie.

Okay if you are good with, that then so am I, I say to him, knowing he is not good at all.

We talk about everything and nothing for about an hour before my dad walks through the door. Seeing him brings mixed emotions. I am happy to see him because he is my dad and it’s been a long time but on the other hand, the day we left flashes through my mind, making me hate him all over again on behalf of my brother. He notices I am awake and rushes over to my side.

Son, how are you feeling? Do you need a doctor? he asks touching my forehead.

No, Dad, I am fine. Knox already got me a doctor when I first woke up.

My father looks at Knox. Why didn’t you call me when he woke up?

Knox has his back to him and I can see the tension in his jaw. He gets off the bed he turns. I don’t have your number.

My dad looks at him. It has never changed; it’s still the same.

Knox shrugs, grabbing my hand. I’ll see you later, bro. I’m glad you’re awake. He says and I pull him down to me, hugging him.

Okay, bring me something to fix my hair and I need a phone, I say, letting him up.

He ruffles my half hair. Okay, see you tomorrow.

Before he leaves, my dad reaches into his wallet, taking out some cash. Here Knox, get your brother a phone, he says, holding out the cash but Knox refuses it, so I take it from my dad and push it into my brother’s hand. I know he can’t afford to buy me a new phone.

I want the same model or a better one if it’s out. I smile.

Knox shakes his head. I’ll get you a dinosaur. He laughs, walking out of the room.

My dad sits down beside the bed. How are you feeling?

Like I got hit by a car, I say and he laughs at me.

Yeah I guess you would. I am happy you’re awake.

I nod laying my head on the pillow,

So how did you know I was here? I ask, turning my head a little.

The hospital called me; I am down as your emergency contact on your insurance, he replies, leaning back in his chair and I watch as he puts his ankle over his other knee.

Really I thought I had Knox, I say and he looks at me.

You do but I am a secondary and they didn’t know which of you it was.

Sorry, that must have been a shit phone call to get.

He snorts. Yeah, I just hope it never happens again.

I can see the stress on his face as he looks at the heart monitor. So what’s the deal with you and Knox? I ask him.

What do you mean?

Dad, come on; it’s been forever and you haven’t even bothered to contact either of us.

What the fuck does he think I mean? I am laying here in a bed where I can’t move and he is starting this shit with me.

I have told your brother this. I did come see you, but George kept turning me away on more than one occasion.

I am not sure if I believe him, but I can see my uncle doing something like that.

My eyes are getting heavy now. I’m tired, I say closing my eyes

Chapter 3

Iwake to a noisy nurse fixing my bed and rattling around the room. Morning handsome, she says when she sees me open my eyes.

Morning, what time is it? I ask closing, my eyes again and I can hear her chuckle.

Well sugar, it’s about that time, she answers cryptically.

What time would that be? I ask this crazy nurse.

It’s time for your sponge bath, sugar.

My eyes fly open, looking around and see that she has pulled over all the curtains.

Eh, that’s okay. I can get my brother to fix me up later, I say slightly petrified.

She lets out a hearty laugh. Don’t you worry, sugar. You isn’t got nothin I ain’t already seen, she says pulling away my blankets.

I look down for the first time, noticing I have scaffolding around my lower stomach and hips.

What’s that for? I ask her and she looks at me for a minute before answering.

That baby is so you don’t move and hurt yourself more. When your body is ready to walk again, then it will come off.

I am slightly confused by what she has said but, even more afraid as she pulls my hospital gown up. Jesus, I can’t feel anything down there so I hope my junk is behaving. I watch as she takes the sponge out of the water and starts washing me down like I am a Buick. She looks over at me smiling, holy Jesus, please don’t be hard please, don’t be hard, I chant to myself. This nurse is about as old as Peggy. I am sure she does not want to see me in my morning glory.

She pulls down my gown thankfully, and then nods at me.

You should, at least, buy me dinner before you salute me, sugar. She chuckles as I feel my face go on fire.

Well, at least, I know I still work. She moves around to the other side, starting with my right arm.

So how long have you worked here? I ask her, trying to be polite, but she laughs again.

Twenty years and loving every minute. I can see the happiness written all over her face as she continues to wash my arms and chest. Who’s that sugar? she asks, pointing to my chest.

Oh my mom, she passed a few years ago.

She pats my tattoo. Sorry to hear that.

When she is done with my chest, she wipes my face.

I need to do your back, but it will hurt a bit to sit up okay sugar? she asks and I nod as she puts her arm across my chest then leavers me forward.

Jesus, I say through clenched teeth.

Okay hold on, baby, almost done, she says working quickly and then lays me down. I can feel the sweat on my brow and I’m breathing hard. It’s okay, I got you, the nurse says as she wipes my face again.

Can I ask your name?

She smiles at me. Well, sugar, I think I might be a bit old for you. She winks, making me smile. It’s May, sugar.

I lift up my hand. Hi, May I’m Max, nice to meet you. She slaps my hand away hugging me.

Now don’t you worry, nurse May will take good care of you, Max. She is quite the lady, nurse May.

Thank you, I say and she smiles as she pulls back the curtains.

Any boy who puts his Mama’s name on his body can’t be that bad. She winks as she leaves the room.

My whole lower stomach is killing me from that little movement and fear is beginning to set in. What if I can’t walk again? What if things are worse than I thought? I close my eyes, praying that I will walk again as I let sleep take me. I feel someone touching my hand rubbing my knuckles and I know it’s a woman because the hands are small. Opening my eyes, I see Bailey sitting in the chair reading while holding my hand

Hey sis, I croak and her head springs up.

Max! She jumps up, hugging me. Oh thank god, I missed you. I hug her back the best I can before she stands up and she is smiling at me Hey, I have a few presents for you. She pulls her backpack up onto the chair and begins looking through it. First she takes out a new phone. Ta da, she sings, handing it to me. Then she whips out a hair clippers and waves it at me and finally she takes out a box, putting it behind her back.

What’s that? I nod to her.

How much do you love me? she asks smiling.

How can I answer that without getting my ass kicked by Knox? I respond and she laughs.

It’s okay, I won’t tell him, she says laughing.

I love you like the sister I never had.

She rolls her eyes at me. Pussy, she calls me, making me laugh.

Shit Bailey, don’t make me laugh, I say, holding my stomach.

Okay, calm down, Evil Knievel. She holds out the box, which is full of steam.

Taking it, I open the lid to find a huge slice of Knox’s lasagna. Okay, I love you. It’s official, if you weren’t my brother’s girl, I’d kiss you right now.

Bailey laughs and reaches into her bag, bringing out a fork then leans over kissing my cheek. I am glad you’re okay, Max, really.

Thanks, sis, I say, digging into my food.

When I am done eating, she closes the door and curtains.

What are you doing? I ask and she smiles her evil villain smile at me, waving the clippers.

I am cutting your hair.

I hold up my hands. No way, Bailey. I’ll wait for Knox. There is no way I am letting that crazy chick near me with a razor.

Don’t be a baby, Max. I used to do this all the time, she says looking serious.

Really? I ask, thinking that it would be okay.

Ha! Hell no, what do you think I am, she says, turning on the clippers.

Oh, what the hell, I nod and she gets to work. About five minutes later she takes a picture with her phone and shows it to me. It looks good.

Thanks, sis.

I rub my head; it feels weird not having hair.

You look badass, Bailey tells me.

Thanks, I yawn as she packs up her stuff.

Okay hot stuff, I will see you tomorrow, she says, hugging me again.

Hey Bailey, what day is it? I ask and she laughs.

It’s Thursday, Max. Knox is covering all your shifts at the bar and your uncle is making waves about some shit so I am heading that way now.

Okay sis, I’ll see you tomorrow.

She waves then leaves me alone. I pick up my new phone and swipe the screen to see Knox has all my info on it already.

Love you, bro, I say to the phone. I scroll through my contacts and press Paige, listening to it ring.

Hello she answers and, man, she sounds like shit.

Hey, angel. Is all I can get out before I hear her crying.

Max? Is that really you? she sobs down the phone.

Yeah angel, it’s me. Can you come visit me? I miss you.

She is quiet for a long time and I have to take the phone away from my ear to make sure the call is still connected.

Paige, you there? I ask listening closely.

Yeah I’m here. I will come by in a little while.

I am about to ask her when, but she hangs up on me.

Bailey

---

I walk into George’s bar at eight o’clock,

Hey, babe. I wave to Knox, who is looking bored.

Ugh! Thank god, now I have someone to talk too, he says, grabbing me around the waist.

Talk, huh? I ask, pressing my lips to his and he smiles.

Yep talk. He kisses me again, slowly tasting my mouth with his tongue.

Mmm, you’re beautiful, Darlin’, he says, smiling at me and his emerald eyes are shining in the amazing way that they do.

I love you, I say pressing myself into him.

Naughty, naughty Darlin. He pushes his hips into me, letting me feel his arousal. We are in our own world when we hear a cough. I pull away and he adjusts himself. Turning to the bar, we see his father sitting on a stool.

What do you want? Knox asks not too nicely.

A beer.

Knox pulls one from the fridge, handing it to him then goes about making me a Jack and Coke.

Here darlin’. He winks, setting it in front of me.

I take a sip, as Knox’s father looks at me.

That’s an unusual drink for a girl, he says, watching me.

I am an unusual girl, I answer opening, my textbook.

Knox squeezes my hand. Do you want to study in the back darlin’?

I shake my head no, smiling at him.

What are you studying? Mr. Porter asks.

I am not sure if I should be conversing with him, but I reply, Forensic computers.

He nods. That sounds interesting.

Knox is boiling. Will you leave my girlfriend alone? Don’t you think fucking one was enough?

I am only talking to the girl, Knox, nothing more, his dad says, holding up his hands.

Knox takes out his phone, punching out a text, but he stays close to me until his dad leaves.

Good night Knox, young lady. He nods to us, walking out of the bar.

Darlin’, I am closing early. I just text George and he said it’s okay.

I smile at him Sounds good, babe. More time together.

He looks at me curiously. What do you mean?

I smile at him. Well, I will tell you when I get back from my pizza run. I step behind the bar, kissing him.

Hurry back, I miss you already, he says, slapping my ass as I leave.

Walking out of the bar I am met with a cold wind that makes me shiver; I should have brought a jacket. I run across the road towards Pizza Mia.

Bailey, I hear from behind me and spin around to see Mr. Porter.

Can I help you? I ask, backing up as he nears me.

I just want to talk for a minute, he says reaching my side.

I am going for food. I start walking away,

I just want to know how my son is. He won’t talk to me at all. He won’t even give me a chance to explain.

I stop walking Look, Mr. Porter, Knox told me what happened with Lindsey and I don’t want to get in the middle of it. She already tried splitting Knox and me up. She is a viper and one day I will kick her ass, so you tell her to stay the fuck away from my boyfriend, I snap at him.

I am so sick of her interfering in my life. She was all over Knox when she heard about Max. She couldn’t keep her evil nose out of our business.

I haven’t seen her since that night, he says, looking sick. I didn’t know she was still here.

I shrug. I need to go, I tell him, walking away from him. By the time I get back to the bar Knox is pacing.

Bailey what took you so long? He grabs my hands, inspecting every inch of me with his eyes.

Knox, I am fine. Chill out, I tell him and he relaxes and begins kissing me.

Here have your pizza. I hand him the box, as I sit down on the stool. Why doesn’t George just close on Thursday’s?

Knox shrugs. I don’t know. Max is on Thursday anyway, so I am used to it.

What time are we leaving? I ask