6. Saturday
Chapter 6
Saturday
I wake up to Murphy is licking my face and the sun is streaming through the bedroom windows. I look at the clock. Eight thirty a.m. I get up, brush my teeth, throw on some workout clothes, and head downstairs to take Murphy out. We walk our usual morning loop—a few blocks to a green space near Greenwich Village and back. On the way back, I grab an iced coffee and a bagel from my favorite place on the corner.
I have absolutely no plans today and am looking forward to doing nothing but catching up on chores I've put off all week. I start a load of laundry before sitting down at my counter to write out a grocery list. I pick up my phone to look for some dinner ideas and see a text from Matt.
Good morning, hope you slept well. Dr. P says she'll discharge Dad on Monday, so we'll be here through the weekend.
That's great news! I'm sure she's just being cautious. I slept very well, thanks. You?
He replies immediately.
I need a chiropractor.
The pull-out recliner—never good for backs, especially robust forty-two-year-old backs.
Very funny. What are you up to today?
I send him a picture of my coffee, bagel, and Murphy in the background.
Lazy Saturday.
Looks amazing. It's not the same here in room 416 without you.
He sends a picture of his legs propped up on the rolling stool, Sid in the background looking grumpy. Another text comes through.
I haven't been able to stop thinking about last night.
Butterflies fly into my stomach. My thumbs hover over the keyboard.
Same.
Are you still thinking it was lovely?
Hmmm ... yes, lovely. But something else, too.
Yes. Something else, too.
I see three dots appear, then disappear.
I fly back to LA on Monday night after Dad goes home. Can I see you before I go?
I'd like that.
How about tomorrow? I have something in mind. I'll let you know the details as soon as I figure them out.
Sounds mysterious. Looking forward to it.
Have a great day, Jules.
You too.
Jules .