69. Chapter Sixty-Nine
Chapter Sixty-Nine
Kai Moreno
Cry, Curse, Repeat
It’s been five days since Beau performed CPR on Elowen then bit her.
We find ourselves looking for random things to fill our time.
Our repeat activities include taking turns crying, cursing at one another, watching videos on our phone, and prying Genie from Elowen’s room to make sure he eats his dinner and goes on walks.
I’ve not seen Beau look at his phone once.
Every so often I go searching for him. The two locations he orbits are the back porch and Elowen’s bedroom.
He pulls a chair into Elowen’s room every so often and just sits with her.
He’ll glide his hands over hers or readjust her blankets.
Imani has even caught him swabbing her mouth, lotioning her face, reading to her from her favorite books off her bookshelf.
He is so meticulous when caring for her.
I believe we both, Imani and I, are afraid to suggest he take a walk or just a break in general, in fear that he may kill one of us in an act of rage.
He really does need to step out though. No matter the outcome, he is hurting too and that’s okay.
Beau doesn't realize that being strong also warrants showing extra care for yourself as well.
David, Imani’s dad, stopped by once or twice over the past few days.
That was the only time Beau and I made ourselves scarce.
Our meetings are brief and Imani makes it clear that she doesn’t have the mental capacity to explain our current situation.
He knows the bare minimum, which is the safer option, anyways.
Elowen is still sick. Elowen is in a coma.
She could pass any day now. Not all truths, but not lies either.
They stray in the middle of the two fields.
I know Imani hates lying to her Dad. I feel bad about that at least.
In Beau and I’s adventure out today while David stops by, we swing by the bookstore and Lydia is already waiting outside in a big, bright blue parka with fur around the hood. Beau steps out of the car and walks up to Lydia on the sidewalk.
“Still closed, Mr. Drewitt?” She asks, shaking in the wind.
“Yes ma’am. We may be closed for a while longer too.” Beau responds.
“Works for me if you’re paying me anyways. Easiest job I’ve ever had.” Lydia chuckles. It’s the first time I’ve ever seen her smile.
“Lydia, there’s a check in this envelope for you. It’s for $350,000.” Beau’s expression doesn’t change.
“Oh. OH. Oh no, I can’t possibly accept this. You have to take this back, Mr. Drewitt.” She pushes the envelope back into hands, encasing hers around his.
“Lydia. Take the money. Don’t worry about this job anymore. If you need more in the future, come find me.”
“Did I do something to cause you to let me go? I am a fine worker. I still can bring you that list of references.”
“You’ve been a big help. You just came at a time when I realized that working your life away while providing for your family isn’t as rewarding as providing for them and getting to see them.
This money can get you a new house, maybe some land, and enough food for a while.
Whatever you want to do with it. Throw it in savings and let it accrue.
It’s totally up to you, but I just want you and yours taken care of.
If I need some help in the store again, I promise to call you first! ”
Lydia reassures him, “Well, I’ll work for free whenever you need.” The little lady and Beau part ways.
The days pass quickly, although not all the same. So, we do the only thing that is our constant. We wait some more.