Page 205 of Royally In Trouble
The machines are the only reason she’s still breathing.
We should move on and think about the future of Torskethorpe.
But she’s the future.
She’s it.
She will pull through this.
She has to, because . . . because I don’t know what I would do without her.
Theo nods. “Of course,” he says, his throat choking up. “We are here with you, Keller. She will pull through. I believe it.”
Katla nods. “I believe it too.”
“Thank you,” I say, wiping my eyes.
* * *
“‘We love you,Princess Lilly. We can’t wait to see you back at our school again. Get better soon,’” I say, reading one of the several cards delivered today. “You know, I think that was from the girl I kicked. And yes, I said kicked, because sure, I might not have meant to, but did it happen? It sure did.”
I set down the card and reach for another one.
“Oh, this is from the same class. I think this is the kid whose lap she fell into.” I take Lilly’s hand, rubbing my thumb over her knuckle. “He says, ‘Princess Lilly, I like your hair. Get better.’” I stare at the card and set it down. “Compliments all around.” I glance at her. “I love you, but man, if the kid saw your hair now, I don’t think he would be singing your praises. I spoke with a nurse, and they’re going to wash it today and possibly braid it. We will see.”
I grab another card. This one is purple. “‘Princess Lilly. I hope you feel better soon. I hope you like the cod I drew you.’” I flash the card at her. “This guy is showing off for you. I would say an accurate portrayal, might need a little help on the—”
I pause, and my eyes immediately go to where I’m holding her hand.
Heart stilling, breath catching in my chest.
Wait . . .
Did . . . did her thumb just move?
My heart rate picks up, and I drop the card, focusing all of my attention on her hand.
“Love . . . did you . . . did you just move your thumb?” I pause, waiting to see if anything happens.
Am I imagining it? Am I that fucking desperate that I’m feeling things now?
“Lilly, if you can hear me, move your thumb, your finger, anything.”
I pause again, the distant sound of her machines the only noise filling the air. When she doesn’t move, my heart crashes all over again.
Fuck.
“God, I really thought you moved for a second. Jesus Christ.” I take a few deep breaths. “If that cod brought you back to me, I’d frame that godforsaken picture. I was being kind. It wasn’t that great.”
I move to the next card, and as I start reading, her thumb passes over my knuckle again. An actual chill races down my spine as I stare down at her connection.
“Lilly, love, can you hear me?”
I wait, my breath stilling in my lungs.
Please . . . please show me any sign that you’re here with me.
Anything.
