Return to Me: Part 2

By A.M. Church

Kyle had the perfect life, or so she thought. She lived in southern California with her handsome and loving husband who competed for and won her heart back in college. Now, years later, after building a successful life, the next logical step was to start a family. That was until everything they loved and worked for is turned upside down.

After opening her heart, Kyle now faces her biggest battle, trying to save the life of the man she loves. Their story was just beginning when the carpet was pulled from beneath them both.

While the love of her life fights his battle, Kyle is torn between supporting his fight and finding solace in an unlikely person...the other man who walked away all those years ago. His return offers friendship and support, but is there something more? Will she be willing to accept his help and ultimately forgive him from walking away? Will she still have feelings for him?

Kyle’s journey of life and love continues as she discovers a deeper level of loving and sexual exploration she never expected.

Note: This book is the second part of a two-part series. It is recommended to read Return to Me – Part 1 first.

• Language: English
• Publisher: A.M. Church
• Release date: Apr 2, 2017
• ISBN: 9780995282322

A.M. Church

AM Church lives in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia with her husband. When she isn’t writing novels, she works as a Training and Procedures Specialist, another passion of hers. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, as well as travelling. She loves to travel to Temecula and Palm Springs, California often.

Book preview

Chapter 1

4 months later

As time and the illness progressed, it was evident the cancer had metastasized to his other organs. Craig had been given four to six months to live. How could a doctor put a time limit on one’s life?

Although she had resisted, she agreed with his request to move him into the living room as he was becoming weaker and weaker with every passing day. With his friends stopping by, it was easier for him to remain in the living room, rather than moving back and forth from their bedroom. She was being selfish as she wasn’t ready to sleep alone, but she acquiesced for him.

He tried to comfort her by telling her she would sleep better without him. He had been wrong, she missed him terribly in the middle of the night. She had always slept better with his body next to hers.

Craig’s younger brother Chad returned from his missionary work overseas, to help out where he could, but most importantly spend time with his big brother. It had been 18 months since he had seen Craig and the rapid deterioration of his once strong older brother had been shocking. Once the initial shock had worn off Chad had quickly stepped in to help Kyle with Craig’s care and to spend as much quality time with his only brother. Kyle leaned against the doorway, watching the brothers together; it was obvious they had a special bond. It was heartbreaking knowing their time together would soon be ending.

Her cell phone rang startling her. She moved to the kitchen to give the brothers more privacy. Hello?

Hello Kyle. A familiar voice from her past was on the other end of the line.

Jared, is that you? She knew it was him immediately.

Sweetness, how’s it going? Jared’s voice sounded sympathetic telling her that he must have heard the news about Craig’s condition. After the wedding they had promised to stay in touch but neither had reached out until today. She assumed a mutual friend had shared the news of Craig’s recent diagnosis.

Kyle’s independence was always at the forefront. For the most part, she had kept herself together for Craig’s sake as well for as his family, especially Chad. Having had a special connection to Jared and hearing the concern in his voice allowed her to momentarily breakdown for the first time in several weeks. She was embarrassed, but it was also cathartic to let it out while Chad was busy with Craig.

Jared thanks for calling. You’ve heard, I assume? We are hanging in there, as best we can. Do you know Chad, Craig’s little brother? He is here visiting right now. Kyle couldn’t stop babbling. She paused to take a breath and continue, I’m sorry Jared how are you?

I’m fine. I was calling to check in on you. I’m glad Chad is there with Craig and I know he has lots of friends and family supporting him. I’m calling to lend my support to you. Can I do anything for you?

No, I don’t need anything other than a speedy cure for cancer, but thanks for asking, Jared, Kyle said as her voice gave way to her defeat.

If I could give that to you, you know I would. Kyle knew he meant it.

How long is Chad visiting for? Jared asked her.

He is staying over the next few weeks at least. He hasn’t decided on when he will go back to Asia. I guess it depends on… Kyle stopped herself from completing her thought.

I think I know the answer, but I’m going to ask anyways, how is he really?

He’s going downhill rapidly, Jared. He was hanging in there until a month ago and then all of a sudden he started slipping away, she said as she began to sob again.

Kyle, do you think you could get away for a bit? I know my idea will seem selfish to you for even considering it, but with Chad here, you could probably use a break. Jared paused allowing the suggestion to sink in before continuing, How about I take you out for a coffee or drink tonight if you feel comfortable stepping away?

Besides his family, Jared had never truly cared for anyone as he had for Kyle. He realized she would have no awareness of this as their college relationship had been cut short when he had pushed her way. The fierce attraction and protectiveness he felt towards her had scared him and along with his inability to remain committed to one person had been the reasons he walked away from her in college. The overwhelming feeling of protectiveness was still apparent even after all this time.

Jared, I shouldn’t really. What if Craig needs me or what if Chad doesn’t know what to do? Kyle hadn’t taken a moment for herself in the last two months other than running errands and only when she felt comfortable leaving Craig by himself or with a family member.

"Is there a coffee shop or bar close to your house?

Yes, there’s a bar in the hotel just down the road, Kyle responded.

How long does it take to drive from your house to the hotel?

About seven minutes, I think, she said contemplating the route between her house and the hotel.

I promise to have you home in four minutes if you need to get back in a hurry. You need this break and Craig would be the first to suggest it, especially as Chad is staying here with him.

Oh, I don’t know… She started to respond before pausing. Was she actually considering his invitation? Neither of them spoke, the phone line was quiet, only the sound of Kyle’s breathing could be heard as she pondered his invitation. She began again, I probably wouldn’t be good company tonight. It is very sweet of you to ask me though. I really appreciate the thought, Jared, she replied.

You’ve always been perfect company and even if you aren’t under these trying circumstances, that’s okay too. How about this, I’ll swing by at 7 to pick you up. I don’t want you driving tonight and I promise to get you home quickly if either Chad or Craig call, sound okay?

Kyle sat quietly considering her options. Sorry Jared, I was just trying to decide if I could actually do this. I’ll have to ask the guys and make sure they are up to it. I’m not sure I would be comfortable with you picking me up unless you first came in to visit with Craig. Would you be up to that?

To be honest I’m not sure I’m up to seeing Craig right now. I know that sounds very selfish of me. I can’t offer Craig any help other than giving you a break. Perhaps after our visit you can convince me to drop by on my way out of town tomorrow, deal? Jared asked hoping she wouldn’t judge him.

Of course, that’s fair, but I insist on driving myself there. I’ll go ask the guys and unless you hear back from me I’ll meet you at the hotel bar, okay?

He reluctantly agreed to meet her at the hotel providing she promised to allow him to drive her home if she was called back due to an emergency.

She quietly returned to the living room after she ended the call with him. Chad turned towards her as she stood against the entrance. Craig lifted his head and gave her his silly grin that she loved so much. Her heart broke a little every day knowing their time together was becoming less and less every day. She was shattered watching this beautiful man lose his battle, but she would not allow him to see her break apart.

Hi my love, how are you feeling? she asked as she moved to the couch and sat at the foot of it. She placed his feet on her lap and gently rubbed them. She smiled and looked at Chad as she waited for Craig to answer her.

Chad replied first, I think he’s doing really well today, hey big bro?

I’m fine. Just the usual, he said trying to sound convincing.

Are you using your morphine pump? she asked both of them.

No, I will in a bit. I’ve been sitting here listening to Chad’s stories. Don’t you think my brother is such a cool guy? Craig asked while reaching for her hand. She moved up the couch to grab his hand.

Yes, you’re both super cool, if you ask me. She looked at Chad and mouthed ‘thank you’ to him as he nodded back. Chad got up from the coffee table allowing them some privacy. She squeezed his hand and told him she was going to talk to Chad for a moment.

She left the room and found Chad in the kitchen grabbing a coffee. You know you don’t have to leave the room every time I come in. Your time with your brother is as important to Craig as his time with me. He adores you and I can see how he has perked up since your arrival. I promise I’ll let you know when I don’t feel like sharing him anymore, okay. She said winking at him.

She walked over and hugged him. As soon as she was safely in his arms she sobbed a little for the third time today. She quickly pulled herself together.

Kyle, you've been so amazing with my brother and I love you more each day for taking such good care of him. Mom and Dad feel the same way and think you’re a saint with him. I can never repay you for your love and constant care of him. Chad kissed her on the forehead.

Don’t even start to thank me. Your brother is my life so there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for that man. I can’t even tell you how many times he’s been there… I love him with everything I have, she said, pulling away. Her plans to meet Jared tonight might have seemed insignificant to her had she not broken down three times today. Perhaps Jared was right, maybe she needed to step away for an hour.

Listen, a friend of ours is in town and since he heard that you’re here helping with Craig he offered to get me out of the house for a while. I wanted to ask you privately as I can’t convince him to stop in for a visit. I think he’s concerned about seeing Craig sick. I was hoping to visit with him and convince him to come by tomorrow on his way back to San Diego. It might hurt Craig’s feelings to know he was in town without visiting. Do you think you could handle things around here if I left for an hour or two? I’ve been guaranteed that he will have me home in four minutes if you need me.

Of course Kyle, don’t be silly we can manage just fine. Is there anything special I’ll have to do during your absence? Chad asked trying to convince her he was prepared to look after his brother.

Not really, we just need to ensure he takes his morphine soon so that the pain doesn’t get away from him. I can pull a casserole out of the freezer and get that cooking so you won’t have to worry about dinner. I doubt Craig will want anything other than a meal replacement drink. Unless it’s ice cream, he doesn’t have much of an appetite, she said as they both laughed.

She thought about the rest of their nightly routine and hoped she hadn’t missed anything. He has been going to sleep around 10:00 most nights. We have a routine where I help him into the shower, dry him off, rub lotion on him and then give him a back massage until he falls asleep. Don’t worry, he won’t make you do that, she said while winking at him.

She continued, It’s hard you know, your brother is a proud man, but he hasn’t allowed his pride to interfere with his care. I’m so grateful for that, Kyle finished and looked up at Chad. She knew her eyes were welling up so she looked away.

He rushed to hug her, letting out a muffled cry. She quickly comforted him. Oh Chad, I don’t mean to upset you. I’m just trying to remember everything to tell you. On second thought, I’ll cancel my plans.

No you won’t. After listening to what your nightly routine involves, you need this break. This is why I’m here, remember?

No, you’re here to visit with your brother. She started to walk out of the kitchen. Chad grabbed her arm No, I’m here to support my brother and YOU. Tonight, I’m supporting YOU by insisting you go out. We promise to call you if either of us needs anything and you promise to come home quickly, right?

Kyle nodded and hugged him again as a small thank you escaped her lips. They both walked back into the living room to discuss the plan for the evening, but Craig was soundly sleeping. Even though they hadn’t had a chance to discuss the plan with Craig, Chad insisted she go out.

Looking at the wall clock she registered it was now 6:00pm so she told Chad that Craig would sleep for at least another hour before he would wake up and need his morphine. They had found a Padres game on TV so they could watch it while she was out. She quickly threw the casserole in the oven so that it would be ready as she was leaving. With everything organized, she took a few minutes to shower before meeting with Jared.

She asked Chad one more time if she should change her plans and he reassured her he was comfortable staying alone with Craig. She walked over to the couch to see if Craig had awakened, but he was still sleeping. She worried he would wake up and ask for her. Chad convinced her that he wouldn’t even notice she was gone once the baseball game was on and they both laughed.

She waved goodbye and drove to the hotel before she could change her mind. As she parked in the hotel’s parking lot, she couldn’t even remember the route she had taken to get there. She was distracted She took a deep breath and walked into the hotel lobby. Besides feeling guilty for leaving Craig she was nervous as she hadn’t seen Jared since Lisa’s wedding. As agreed, the visit would be quick providing a brief distraction before returning home to Craig.

Chapter 2

As she walked into the lobby, she spotted him right away. She was early, but Jared had arrived even earlier to ensure he would be waiting for her in the lobby. As she approached him, she wondered if there would be any awkwardness between them. When they reached each other, she didn’t have to worry as Jared immediately pulled her into a warm embrace. She felt his familiar and comforting arms around her.

Kyle, even under these circumstances you are still the most beautiful woman around. Jared stared at her with admiration.

Thank you Jared, always the gentleman. You look wonderful, yourself.

He led her into the bar, where he had already picked out a table tucked away from the rest of the customers. He had left his briefcase on a chair to reserve the table while he had waited for her.

I hope this table will do. I thought you might like to sit back here. He waved his arms around, showcasing their obvious privacy. This table was the most private one they had," he said sounding nervous as he pulled her chair out for her. On the table waiting for her was a glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which he had ordered along with his Lagavulin.

You remembered, thank you Jared, she said as she tucked into the booth.

She took a sip of the crisp, white wine and almost instantaneously relaxed a little. Jared looked at her. When was the last time you enjoyed a glass of wine?

Up until a month ago Craig still insisted that he pour me a glass of wine every Friday night so we could sit together and talk. It was important for him to continue with our Friday night rituals. He was no longer able to drink so he poured himself sparkling water. Of course the last few weeks he hasn’t had the strength. Her voice trailed off and now she wondered if it had been a mistake to come. She knew if she continued to talk about Craig the entire night she would no doubt break down in front of Jared and everyone at the bar. Something she hated to do.

Well that sounds like Craig, always the perfect gentleman. He is a proud man with a beautiful wife, no doubt, it drives him to protect and cherish you. I know if it was me, I would want my wife to know that I could still take care of her. Jared stopped himself from saying anything else that could be misinterpreted as disrespectful.

He sat there quietly sipping his scotch. He watched Kyle take a small sip of her wine with hesitancy. He frowned at discovering her displeasure. What’s the matter Kyle? Is the wine not to your liking? I’ll order you something else. He started to gesture to one of the wait staff.

Kyle looked up, startled at his words. No, it’s wonderful. I’m just unsure of how to act. I haven’t done anything social or been anywhere in the last few months. All of my recent outings have revolved around running errands or doctors’ appointments. I’m sorry Jared I told you I would be horrible company this evening, she said looking directly into his now sad eyes.

Jared, who had been across from her in the booth, suddenly moved beside her hitting her leg as he settled in close. Stretching out his arm he pulled her in towards him. She struggled briefly before she acquiesced and broke down. He allowed her to sob against his shoulder while he rubbed her back for comfort. She looked up with her tear streaked face and felt embarrassed. I’m sorry, Jared. I’ve have broken down in public before. You must be so embarrassed to be here with me? she asked getting ready to leave.

Jared shook his head, Not at all Kyle. You’re the strongest person I know and it’s okay even for you to let it out. You’re safe here, Craig can’t see you fall apart. I know you well enough to know that you’re hiding as much as you can from him.

Kyle nodded before she excused herself to freshen up in the washroom. He watched her walk through the bar into the lobby area. She was even more beautiful then he remembered and realized every man had noticed too. Under different circumstance he would have teased her about her looks, but tonight it seemed trivial and unimportant. He watched her return, a few minutes later with a partial smile and a fresh face.

"Feeling better? he asked standing up while she slid back into the booth. He sat down in his original seat, giving her the space she now required.

"Yes, I am. I’m not usually like this, but today has been