CHAPTER SIX #2
Craig took her keys and pulled up Daisy’s car, which Jessie was grateful to borrow.
One of the problems of not living full-time in the States meant she didn’t have her own car or place.
As she and Craig loaded up Malcolm—and Estelle sobbed behind them—Jessie wondered what her life back in Pinegrove would look like if she had her own things, her own space.
Would her place be shared with Malcolm? Would the lack of obstacles have paved the way for a smooth happily ever after, or were they always doomed to live parallel lives? She shoved those questions away and focused on getting Malcolm home.
Once his son was buckled in, Craig carefully closed the door, knocking his knuckles on the top of the car.
“We’re going to go back to the hotel and find some lunch.
Do you mind if we come by with dinner around five o’clock?
” Craig asked, stepping back and waving at Malcolm, who already looked exhausted.
“That sounds perfect,” Jessie said, shooting a thumbs-up.
“See you in a few hours,” Craig said over his shoulder, nearly dragging Estelle along.
“A few hours that will feel like seconds.” Malcolm sighed as Jessie slid behind the wheel. “I’m currently stuck in this position, but I plan on hugging you to death once we’re home,” he promised, sending a shiver surging through her. “I can’t thank you enough for helping out.”
Jessie faced Malcolm, his eyes sparkling in the sunlight pouring through the windshield.
It was the first time since her return that he looked nearly like himself.
Despite the terrible bedhead, his curls were still there, his dimples popping as he smiled.
There was a paleness taking over his dark skin, but he still looked ludicrously handsome.
She had to clear her throat twice before finding her words.
“I’m happy to help. I’m only sorry you need it. ”
Lifting his bandaged arm, Malcolm quipped, “It’s barely a scratch.”
Jessie howled with laughter. “Oh yeah, tough guy. I forget buildings fall on you all the time.”
“I mean, I don’t want to brag.” With his good hand, he patted her knee, his palm pressing into her, anchoring him in place.
On the short ride back to Malcolm’s place, Jessie’s hands slipped off the steering wheel approximately a million times. She was sweating like a tart in church and couldn’t calm down. They were mere moments away from being in Malcolm’s place, alone.
When she pulled into his driveway, Jessie threw the car in park.
She had been with Malcolm when he bought the condo, and they had spent a lot of time celebrating in the new space—with and without clothing.
If she closed her eyes, she’d hear the ghosts of their previous selves, laughing and reveling in their time together.
However, it was her last visit that stuck out in her mind’s eye.
The last time they’d had a really big fight.
The topic wasn’t new, but the passion behind it certainly was.
As if reading her mind, Malcolm was abnormally quiet.
He stared sightlessly outside. Jessie wished she knew how to fill this silence.
Deciding practicality was best, Jessie asked, “What’s the garage code? That’s probably the easiest way to get you inside without using steps,” she asked.
A slight flush crept up his neck. “Oh.” His voice barely a whisper, he said, “It’s uh, still your birthday.”
Jessie’s face turned the color of raspberry jam. “Oh,” she breathed, their eyes locked on each other. This doesn’t mean anything, her brain chanted, all the while her treacherous heart pounded in her rib cage. He never changed it!
Malcolm blinked, fumbling with the doorknob. “Might as well start the fun,” he said, fighting with the handle.
“I’ll help.” She stopped his exit with a hand to his forearm. Even though he’d spent a week in the hospital on a diet of liquids and crackers, Malcolm was still fit. Cords of muscle tensed under her grip and Jessie had to remind herself that she was here to help, not grope him.
“Sit still, Mr. Patient. I’ll be right back.”
She hopped out of the car, opened the garage door, and met Malcolm at his door with a walker. “You heard what Tim said,” she started, making sure Malcolm’s feet were on the ground before helping him up. “You only need to use this thing until you’re steady on your feet.”
“Why do I feel like I’m on my way to the early bird special and The Pecan Pit?” Malcolm grumbled, but he managed to stand still once she’d shut the car door.
“Look at you, standing there like a big boy.” She giggled at his eye roll and walked with him to the door.
As soon as they crossed the threshold, Malcolm’s worst fears were realized. The house smelled like a Bath and Body Works exploded, with competing scents of vanilla, citrus, spice, and lilies. “My eyes are going to melt before I make it to bed,” he coughed, slowly walking through his kitchen.
Jessie found plug-ins on their walk to the bedroom, and she pulled each out and planned to toss them in the trash before Estelle returned. “I’m on it,” she promised.
Ten minutes later, Malcolm had used the bathroom on his own—a victory for all involved—and had collapsed onto the bed. Jessie helped him under the covers, careful of his bandages and casts.
“Oh my God,” he purred as he melted into the pillow. “I never realized how great this bed was.” He made some animalistic sounds that raised the hair on her arms.
Cupping the back of her neck, Jessie groaned. “I’m pretty familiar with the amazingness of that bed.”
Malcolm stopped his writhing, eyes flashing to her. “JJ,” he warned, eyebrow lifting.
“Haha.” She laughed, although it sounded maniacal to her own ears. “Don’t listen to me.” She grabbed the nearest pillow, fluffing it before tucking it under his head. She smoothed back his matted curls, savoring the feel of his warmth.
Malcolm rested his palm on her cheek, eyes focused on her freckles. “You’re an angel, JJ. I wouldn’t have made it this far without you.”
Never one to be comfortable with moments of vulnerability, Jessie snorted. “Oh yeah, I highly doubt your dad could have stolen those air fresheners so quickly and made inappropriate comments.”
“I mean it.” Malcolm’s tone was urgent, despite his sagging eyelids. He was seconds away from passing out, and Jessie welcomed the reprieve from her own racing thoughts.
“Shhh, get some rest.”
Malcolm’s eyes fluttered closed, a small smile tugging his lips. “Thanks for coming home, JJ.” It was the last thing he said before sleep finally took hold.
Jessie didn’t move for a while after that.
Too lost in memories of the past, she stayed by Malcolm’s side until the light shifted in the room and her belly grumbled.
Malcolm’s parents were due back soon, and she needed to take care of a few things before they arrived.
Like burying those air fresheners in the bottom of the trash can . ..
Her confused heart would have to wait. Malcolm needed her, and she wouldn’t let him down this time.