Chapter Eleven

Chapter Eleven

Liz

"Where's Mr. Hillman?" I set the container of fresh cut fruit on the table, next to the remote control.

"He's at physical therapy," his son says, standing up from the chair that's over in the corner.

"Oh. Did I get the time mixed up or something? I could've sworn you said it was okay to come at one."

I've always gotten along well with Mr. Hillman's son and his wife, but I get the strangest feeling that something's not right.

"Liz, I want to talk to you about something without my father being here."

"Oh?" Earlier, I was thinking he might be getting ready to come home. Maybe I was mistaken.

"My father's been here almost five weeks now and while I'd like to think we made the right choice bringing him here, I'm having mixed feelings about that now."

My heart begins to race and I wonder if it means what I think. That they're considering letting him come home. I know it'd be a lot for me, and it might mean I'd have to see a little less of Dean, but I'd do anything to make sure he is taken care of.

"I'm sorry to hear this. I will admit I was skeptical about him coming here, but I knew you were only wanting the best for Mr. Hillman."

"I won't settle for second best where his health is concerned. If it means trying something different, I'll do whatever to speed up his recovery."

"I understand that, sir. I'd want the best for my mom or dad, too."

"Liz, we're putting my father's house up for sale."

My jaw drops and I struggle to find the right words to say. "What does this mean for me?"

"I know you've enjoyed staying in the apartment and if you think you'd be interested in speaking to a realtor—"

A knot forms in the pit of my stomach and I'm literally sick. Sick that I'm having to find out about it like this.

"Where will Mr. Hillman go? I don't understand."

"We're going to move him in with us. I've hired a retired RN to look after him and we'll assess things in a couple of months. Who knows, we may only need her short-term."

"What about me? I thought you were happy with me." Tears begin to spill over my cheeks.

"We adore you and I know my father thinks more of you than he does me, his own son. He isn't going to take this well, either, but we feel it's for the best."

"Is it because she's certified and I'm not?"

"Liz, don't—"

"Just say it."