The Book of David by Mary Kate L

Author:Mary, Kate L.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Twisted Press, LLC
Published: 2019-03-08T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 15

Ten minutes after Dr. Jones heads home on Tuesday, Jared shows up. Having him with me while I do my work is thrilling, but being together in the hospital also highlights the risk we’re taking, making the possible consequences seem much more real.

Under the safety of the willow tree, I’m able to pretend we’re somewhere else, that we’re different people living a different life. The branches have become a private world made just for the two of us that no one can touch. In the hospital, though, I can’t block out the truth. Jared and I are taking a big risk, and at any moment, we could get caught.

But time is running out, so I focus on enjoying what little time I have left instead of what getting caught could mean. Happiness is short and hard to come by here, and in light of the joy Jared has brought into my life, I’m willing to take the risk.

We work together side by side, chatting while we clean. Not only does it make for a relaxing evening, but it also gives me a chance to see more of who Jared is. It allows me to memorize his facial expressions in the light of day instead of hidden in the shadows of the tree, gives me the opportunity to notice the freckles that have sprung up on his nose and the tiny mole under his right ear. I take every inch of him in, from the scars on his hands where he cut or scratched himself while working in the barn, to the way his hair curls up around his ears and how his laugh bounces off the walls of the hospital.

But time is impossible to hold on to, and it isn’t long before the chores are done and it’s time for me go home for dinner.

“I have to leave.” I stand in front of him, face to face, staring up into his eyes. Close, but still keeping a good distance between. Now, though, it feels more like a habit than necessity. “If I stay out any longer, George will be furious.”

Jared’s eyes roam my face as his brow furrows in thought. “Why do you feel so much responsibility for your mother?”

His callous words almost leave me speechless.

I stare at him with my mouth hanging open, but then all at once words fly out of me. “What would you have me do? Let George and Father David do whatever they want to her? She’s my mother, Jared.”

He shakes his head and reaches out, and when he rests his hand on my arm, I flinch. The corner of his mouth pulls down, and he lets his hand drop to his side, but I can still feel his touch. It’s warm and terrifying and exhilarating and welcome all at the same time.

“That’s not what I meant,” he says. “I understand she’s your mother, and it’s only natural for you to want her to be safe, but you’re choosing to give up everything for her, Willow.

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