Chapter 49
CHAPTER 49
LEAH
A s promised, an orderly appears and wheels me to one of the wards. We chat openly. I fill him in on my mishap, and he tells me about his grandchildren.
“Thank you,” I say when he finally gets me settled in a private room.
“There’s an en suite there, but with your ankle I suggest pushing the button here. Any issues, just buzz.”
He hands me the buzzer before leaving.
I look around. The room is clean, the large window looking out over nearby houses. I must be at the edge of the hospital.
“Leah Walker?” A woman close to my mum’s age appears in the doorway, looking down at a chart.
“Yes,” I reply.
“Hi, Leah. I’m Tammy. I’m the nurse on duty tonight. How are you feeling?” she asks, coming to stand by the side of my bed.
“Like I got hit by a cyclist,” I tell her, smiling.
“Well, according to your notes, you’re in as a precautionary measure. It says here, you’re about nine weeks pregnant. You’ve had a nasty knock to the head, but there are no signs of internal bleeding and you’ve sprained your ankle.”
“That about sums it up.” I grimace. How could I have been so stupid?
“Well, I’m here if you need anything.”
“Um, my partner is bringing me a phone because mine got totalled in the accident,” I say, wishing Gabriel could be here with me.
“No problem. As soon as he shows up, I’ll bring it to you.”
“Thank you, Tammy.”
“You’re welcome. Remember, buzz if you need anything. It’s what I’m here for.”
I nod, sad to see her leave.
I flick on the television and channel hop, but the throbbing in my head makes it hard to concentrate. Damn Vince. Why on earth did I agree to go for coffee with him? I doubt he even knows I’ve been in an accident, or at least I hope he doesn’t. This is the last place I want to have to face him. How could I have been so stupid? But then again, I have no one to blame but myself at the end of the day, it’s my fault. If I hadn’t been so irritated by him, I wouldn’t have stepped out onto the road.
An hour later, Tammy pops her head around the door.
“There’s someone here to see you,” she says, grinning.
Gabriel steps around her.
“Thank you,” he says.
“You’re welcome. But you can’t stay long,” she tells him, stepping back and closing the door.
I know I’m staring when Gabriel comes towards the bed.
“One phone, an e-reader, a change of clothes, nightwear, toiletries,” he says, smiling.
“You know I’m only here for one night?” I laugh, staring at the enormous bag he’s just brought in. “Gabriel, how?” I ask .
The orderly had told me there was little to no chance of Gabriel getting back in tonight. Strict policies.
Gabriel shoots me one of the grins I’m getting used to. “A large donation,” he says.
“What?”
“Worth every penny. The staff have been amazing. I was talking to Dr Hanson.”
“Gabriel,” I say, grabbing his hand and pulling him towards me. He comes with little resistance.
“I wanted to see you,” he says.
“Well, I’m glad you have.”
I pat the bed next to me, and he sits down, his fingers interlink with mine. “I’m so sorry for all the stress I’ve caused.”
“No. I’m sorry. I should have kicked Vince out of the office. But I felt I would have been out of line.” He drops his chin to his chest.
“I wish you had,” I tell him truthfully. “Although there was something quite satisfying about telling him to get lost.”
Gabriel’s eyes meet mine. “Did you? Did you tell him it’s over?”
I frown, tilting my head. Does Gabriel think there’s a chance I’d have gone back to Vince, after everything we’ve been through?
“Of course. Gabriel. I know what we have isn’t conventional. But I like our little bubble. There’s no way I’m going to go back to Vince. Whatever happens between you and me. I wasn’t lying when I told you, he and I are over.”
He brings my hand to his mouth, his eyes closing.
“I thought I’d lost you,” he admits.
I use my other hand to brush his hair away from his forehead.
“You can’t get rid of me that easily. ”
He drops his head forward until our foreheads touch, careful to avoid my bruise.
“I —”
“Sorry to interrupt, but the doctor is on his way to do final rounds. I need to get you out of here Mr Frazer.”
Gabriel pulls back and stands up. His expression torn. He was about to say something when Tammy walked in.
“I’ll be back in the morning,” Gabriel says, dropping a kiss to my lips.
“I’ll see you in the morning,” I reply, wanting nothing more than to beg for him to stay. But having him kicked out won’t help either of us.
“I’ll be back in a moment, Leah, to help you get showered and changed.”
I smile at Tammy as she whisks Gabriel away.
True to her word, Tammy returns.
“That is one gorgeous man you have there,” she tells me. “Hold on to him. Although I don’t think he’s going anywhere soon. That man is caught -hook, line and sinker.”
I laugh at her expression. “He is special. But our relationship is complicated.”
“Complicated is what you make it. Nothing has to be complicated.”
“You’re right. We have a lot of talking to do.”
I’m unsure why I’m telling a stranger this, but it’s been a long day, and my head hurts.
She pats my hand and smiles. “If you’re talking, then half your problems just disappeared. Everything can be resolved, if you communicate. Take it from someone who knows.”
“As a communications officer, I can vouch for that,” I tell her as she helps me hobble into the bathroom .
I’m horrified when I catch sight of myself in the mirror. What must Gabriel have thought? I’m surprised he didn’t run for the nearest exit. I also realise how lucky I’ve been. The accident could have been far more serious. My hand drops to my stomach.
“Try not to think about it,” Tammy says, patting my hand.
She helps me get washed and dressed.
I’m exhausted by the time I swing my legs back onto the bed.
“You missed dinner,” Tammy says. “I’ll see what I can organise. You must be starving.”
I nod my head, forgetting about the pain but wanting to thank her for her kindness and consideration. My eyes fill with tears of gratitude.
“Hey, none of that. You look after yourself and that little bean you’re growing. I’ll provide some TLC.”
My new phone pings
GAbrIEL:
Did I remember everything?
I smile, and Tammy looks over.
“I’ll leave you to it. Call me if you need anything.”
“Thanks Tammy.” When she leaves, I place my hand on my stomach. “That’s Daddy checking up on us. I’m sorry little bean. Mummy promises to be more careful in future.”
My throat clenches at the thought of what might have been. I know I need to stop, or I will drive myself mad. I pick up my phone and open Gabriel’s message.
ME:
Everything is perfect. Tammy has helped me get changed. I’m back in bed.
Three dots appear instantly, and I suppress a smile. I can just imagine him sitting there on the sofa, staring at the phone, waiting for me to reply.
GAbrIEL:
How are you feeling?
ME:
Hungry
GAbrIEL:
Do you need me to get some food delivered?
My heart beats a little faster at his thoughtfulness.
ME:
No, Tammy’s gone to sort some out.
GAbrIEL:
If you change your mind, I’ll get Jason to package some up and have it delivered.
I smile. It’s seldom, but occasionally when we’ve been working late. Jason is our go-to restauranteur when we’re both too tired to cook.
ME:
Jason is on the opposite side of town.
GAbrIEL:
If you want it. I’ll make it worth his while.
I smile, knowing he would, even if he had to collect and drive it here himself.
ME:
Honestly. The food Tammy brings will be fine.
GAbrIEL:
How’s your head? Your ankle?
ME:
I’m in one piece. I can’t believe I was that stupid. When I think of what could have happened?
My hand goes to my still flat stomach.
GAbrIEL:
Elijah pulled up the footage. The cyclist was weaving in and out.
ME:
Cyclists do that. I’ve lived here all my life. I know how to cross the road. I was an idiot.
GAbrIEL:
I’m just grateful you’re okay.
There’s a pause.
ME:
What are you doing?
GAbrIEL:
Sitting here, missing you. The apartment is very empty.
My heart skips a beat. I miss him too.
My phone pings again.
GAbrIEL:
Get some sleep. I’ll be with you as soon as they let me in.
ME:
But you have your big client meeting in the morning.
GAbrIEL:
I’m not even going to answer that. You and our child are my priority.
GAbrIEL:
Amanda’s moved it. Now stop worrying and go to sleep.
ME:
Goodnight xx
My throat closes as I re-read his words, knowing I’m done for. One reason I stepped out in to the road was I’d been thinking about how much trouble I was in. How deeply I’ve fallen in love with Gabriel Frazer.
Breakfast has been and gone.
Jenny, a young nurse, helped me get washed and dressed, Tammy having gone off duty at seven. I finally fell asleep around midnight, although I awoke several times with my heart racing as flashbacks hit.
Me stepping out, the frantic ringing of a bell, and then the pain.
My hand continues to sit protectively on my lower stomach. I know how lucky I am, how lucky we are. One moment and my dream of motherhood, of our little bean, could have been over.
I remember how pale Gabriel looked when they wheeled me back into the room. Of Caleb, who is becoming the brother I never had. Looking out for me. It’s amazing how accepting they’ve all been.
A knock sounds at the door.
“Hey stranger,” Caleb’s head appears.
“Caleb.” I peer around him. “How have you got in? Visiting hours aren’t for another twenty minutes.”
I wave him in, telling him to close the door.
He grins .
“I come bearing gifts.” He holds up a bag from my favourite coffee shop. “Decaf and a blueberry muffin,” he says placing them on the table next to the bed. “I thought you might appreciate something other than hospital food.”
“It’s actually not been too bad, but coffee and cake, what girl can say no to that. Thank you,” I say, opening the bag and letting the smell of the muffin waft out. “How on earth did you get in? Gabriel managed a flying visit last night but had to leave.”
Caleb’s face falls. “He should have told me. It’s who you know,” he says. “One of the consultants bought my old apartment. We’ve been friends since.” Caleb pulls up a chair and drops into it. “How are you feeling?”
“I’m good,” I say. “My ankle aches, and I’ve been warned to rest it for a couple of days, but the headache is now only a dull ache. I feel more of a fool than anything. I can’t believe I stepped out without looking.”
Caleb drops back into his seat, resting an ankle on his knee.
“What happened? Did I hear something about Vince?”
I drop back against the pillows. “I had a row with Vince. He wanted us to get back together. I told him I’ve moved on and that I was having a baby.” I sigh, still shocked at Vince’s response. “It didn’t put him off. He informed me, it was fine. That he’d already decorated the nursery.”
Caleb looks confused, and I laugh.
“His ex, who he thought he was having a baby with. They’d already decorated the spare room.”
Caleb’s face is a picture as the realisation of Vince’s statement sinks in.
“Is the man a complete moron?” Caleb asks.
I giggle. “He didn’t see the problem.”
“The answer to my question then is yes.”
I chuckle, and Caleb’s face becomes serious .
“Maybe he’s realised his mistake and wants to rectify it. The grass isn’t always greener.”
I shake my head.
“Too bad. I told him to look into a good housekeeping service.” I smile at the memory of Vince’s face.
“Ouch, you have claws, lady,” Caleb chuckles.
“Only when threatened. Vince and I are history. You don’t need to worry. I’m not leaving Gabriel to return to my ex. If that concerns you.”
Caleb looks at me from under his brows. “Am I that obvious?”
I smile. “Maybe, but I don’t blame you. If I had siblings, I’d be the same.”
“What is going on between you and my brother?” Caleb asks.
“None of your business,” a voice sounds from the door, making Caleb jump. “What are you doing here?” Gabriel asks.
Caleb spins in his seat. “Bringing my niece or nephew’s mummy some proper food.”
Gabriel storms into the room.
“That’s my job,” he says, placing down another bag of goodies from my favourite coffee shop.
I bite my lip to hide my smile. Their identical faces, showing opposite expressions. Caleb’s amused, while Gabriel is highlighting his favourite grumpy expression, one I haven’t seen for a while.
“Instead of scowling at your brother, maybe I can get a good morning kiss?” I freeze, immediately realising I may have overstepped the mark. Sure, he always kisses me good morning at home, but...
I watch Gabriel’s expression relax and he steps towards the bed. He wraps his hand around the back of my neck, his mouth coming down on mine in a show of possession. I sink into his kiss. I missed his arms around me last night. Something I never thought I’d say.
When he finally pulls away, he rests his forehead against mine, careful to avoid the bruise. That is going to be a continual reminder of my stupidity for the next week or two.
“Never scare me like that again,” he says, pain and worry reflecting in his eyes.
“I’m sorry,” I say, running my thumb over his lip.
We’re both distracted by a movement out of the corner of our eyes. We turn in unison, only to watch Caleb fanning himself with one of the magazines, the nurses brought me to flick through.
“What are you doing?” Gabriel’s brow furrows against my skin as he takes in his brother.
Caleb laughs. “You two are hot. There I was fearing... fake relationship! My arse!” Caleb stands up, taking one of my hands and raising it to his lips, earning him a growl. “You lovely lady, have completely put my mind at rest. My work here is done.”
He glances at his watch. “Now I have a meeting to get to. Some of us work for a living.” When Gabriel’s scowl deepens, I turn his face back to mine, dropping another kiss on his lips. Caleb gives a dramatic sigh. “I will love you and leave you.”
Without another word, he turns and leaves the room.
Gabriel pulls back and unloads the treats he brought with him. I smile at his thoughtfulness. But then he continues to surprise me. He’s not the aloof and introverted man I thought he was. Introverted with strangers, yes, but with those he knows, who have access to his inner circle. He’s loyal, caring.
We tuck into our muffins and coffee in silence.
Another knock sounds at the door. The doctor enters.
“Morning Ms Walker, Mr Frazer,” he says .
“Morning, Dr Hanson,” I reply.
“How are you feeling this morning?” he asks, picking up my chart and studying it.
“Like an idiot,” I say.
The doctor chuckles. “You’ve been lucky. Your scans were clear, so apart from a headache, there should be no further complications. Your ankle is likely to remain swollen for a week or so, so you will need to take it easy. I’ll bring some crutches, but you’re going to need to rest, keep your weight off it.”
“Don’t worry, doctor. I’ll make sure of it,” Gabriel says.
“Ah, Mr Frazer. Your fiancée needs to rest.”
I watch as colour floods his cheeks. “Don’t worry, doctor. I shall personally see to it,” he says.
Gabriel turns and looks at me. There’s something I don’t recognise in his gaze.
“Perfect.” The doctor smiles at us. “Before I discharge you, I want to do another ultrasound. Check the foetus is happy.” I nod. The nurses told me the doctor would want to and brought me a jug of water to drink. “You’ve had no discomfort or bleeding?”
“No,” I say, breathing deeply. I’d never have forgiven myself if I harmed our little bean. It may still be in my first trimester, but I already love our child, with all my heart.
“Are you ready to see your baby, Mr Frazer?”
Gabriel nods, moving to my side and interlocking our fingers. His hand shakes in mine, and I look up, surprised at the emotion resonating in his eyes.
The doctor wheels in the ultrasound machine, lowering the back of my bed until I’m lying flat.
“If you can pull up your top,” he says, placing a paper towel along the top of my trousers and under my jumper to protect the material. “Sorry, this is going to be cold,” he says, squirting the gel onto my stomach. My muscles contract, but I smile as he places the probe against my skin.
He moves it around smearing the gel.
He turns to the screen, pointing at a little pulsating blob. “That’s your baby’s heartbeat.”
He flicks a button, and the sound fills the room.
Gabriel’s grip tightens on mine, and I look up to see his face filled with wonder.
I bring his hand to my lips, as we both stare in amazement at the life we’ve created.
The doctor says nothing for a moment, letting us take in the miracle before us.
The doctor hits another couple of buttons, and pictures of our baby print out of the machine.
“A keepsake,” he says, handing the photographs to Gabriel, who’s staring at them in awe.
“Thank you,” he says as if the doctor just doubled his fortune.
“No problem. Everything looks to be fine, but I want you to rest for the next week. Providing there is no bleeding or pain, sex may resume as normal. But if anything changes, come back in, or see your local doctor.”
My cheeks burn at his words, especially when Gabriel brings my hand to his lips, holding it there, his eyes lock on mine. That’s one thing that isn’t complicated or fake. Our sex life is phenomenal, and the thought of Gabriel and I together, by choice. Gabriel’s eyes darken as if he’s reading my mind.
“I’ll arrange for your discharge. Look after yourself, and no more stepping out onto the road.”
“Yes, doctor,” I say, dragging my gaze away from Gabriel, finding the doctor grinning at us both.
Gabriel gathers my things, while a nurse gives me a lesson in crutch walking. It’s a lot harder than it seems. Gabriel chuckles in the corner. “You’re a liability,” he says.
“Why do you think I steer clear of heels?” I say, shooting him a fierce look.
He walks up behind me and grips my waist. Showing me how to move. With his help, I get it in no time.
When the nurse is satisfied, she places me in the chair and goes to find a wheelchair to transport me out of the hospital. I’m not allowed to walk. As promised by Dr Hanson, the paperwork is all signed and letters will be sent to my local doctor’s surgery.
“You ready?” The orderly from the day before says, wheeling a chair into the room.
“Yes,” I say, looking over at Gabriel, who’s been busy fielding emails and answering calls for the past thirty minutes. Guilt overwhelms me. He should be at the office, not here with me.
Gabriel ends his call, before looking up and smiling. “Let’s go home.”
My chest swells at his words.
“Let’s.”