Chapter 43

“Everything appears to be normal,” Roberts said, “and we expect she’ll make a full recovery. She’s still going to need a great deal of rest. She’s got a long road ahead of her.”

“We’ll get through it,” Daniel promised. He felt like he could do anything. If Roberts told him they needed to march through fire and swim across the Pacific Ocean, Daniel would take on the challenge with gusto.

“Mom?” Rebecca murmured.

“I’m here, I’m here,” Carol said, stepping forward.

“Don’t leave.”

“Oh, baby, I’m not going anywhere. I promise.”

Rebecca smiled. The raging despair in Daniel’s body was replaced by a soft sense of peace.

* * * *

“More ice cream, please,” Rebecca said, opening her mouth.

“No more ice cream until you finish your dinner,” Daniel said, pushing a forkful of turkey between her lips.

“But I’m full of food. I want ice cream.”

“You’d live off ice cream if I let you,” he said, scooping up some mashed potatoes.