Chapter 13
“Whoa, what’s the hurry? Mark said.
“Mark,” I paused to catch my breath, “I absolutely will not take no for an answer. I’ve thought it over carefully, spoken with the medical staff, and I am totally serious about this.”
He looked confused.
“I want you to come home and live with me.” I held up my hand to stop his protest. “You’re not going to spend Christmas in this place. You’re going to stop with me for as long as you want.” I hoped he would want to stay for a long time, but kept that to myself.
“Urm.”
“I can take some time off work, and there’s The Holidays as well. And if you still need to be cared for, you can come to the library with me sometimes.” I got very close to his ear and said quietly “I don’t want you to go back onto the streets, it isn’t safe. I’d not be able to rest knowing you were in danger. You’ve been given another chance now Jake is dead. Please, please, Mark.”
He didn’t say anything for the longest time. I grew more and more convinced he would refuse.