Page 38 of Jenny
CHAPTER TEN
The next morning, Dare raised his glass of orange juice. “Here’s to improving enough to get a new room.”
“Hear, hear.” His mom drank. “Do you think you’ll have a roommate?”
“No idea, but most likely.”
He hadn’t shared a bedroom in years, but how bad could it be? The nurses were always in and out to check on him. And anyone would be better considering what his last roommate did to him.
“Feel free to head out,” he said. “I’m going to visit Garcia, and then I’ll wait here for Jenny to show up later.”
“Your sisters want to meet her.”
“They will once I’m better.”
“You sound certain.”
“I am.” He remembered what Jenny had said about letting his feelings out. “I’ve never felt like this about anyone. Not even close with Kayla. Yesterday, Jenny told me I shouldn’t keep everything inside and pretend I’m okay.”
“Smart woman. Your father was the master at keeping secrets. I had to drag everything out of him.”
“Then I’m glad I opened up. I’m going to do everything I can so I don’t screw up.”
This time, his mom raised her juice. “To not screwing up.”
Dare laughed. “Geez, Mom. Got any better advice than that?”
“Be open and honest. Trust and commitment go a long way to making a relationship work.” His mom sipped the juice. “Your dad wasn’t good at those things. I could only do so much.”
His parents’ arguments had ranged from money to where his father had gone after work instead of coming home. They’d never fought in front of Dare or his sisters, but their voices carried through the small house where he’d grown up. The same house where his mom still lived now. “I remember the fighting.”
“I’m sorry you do.” Regret filled her voice. “Your father was a damaged man. It wasn’t all his fault, but he couldn’t learn to move beyond any slight or hurt. His leaving was the best thing for us. I’ll always be grateful to him for giving you and your sisters to me, though.”
There was no remorse in her voice, just sincerity, even if his father leaving had meant his mom working three jobs for the first couple of years.
“You’re the best. I love you, Mom,” Dare said. He probably didn’t say that enough, either.
A nurse entered the room. “Good morning. Corporal Garcia asked to see you. Want to pay him a visit?”
“Yes. I’m ready.” If his mom hadn’t been here, Dare would have answered with a four-letter word followed by ayeah. Mom hated when he swore.
“Tell Carlos I said hi.” His mom kissed his cheek. “I’ll be back later.”
After donning yellow disposable scrubs, a mask, and gloves, Dare was wheeled into Garcia’s room.
Carlos’ eyes were closed, and his lips drawn into a thin line. He looked nothing like the cocky kid who thought he knew everything.
The nurse pushed Dare closer, locked the brake, and then left.
Dare was happy to be alone with the corporal. “You’re getting the VIP treatment, Garcia. They made me get all dressed up to see you.”
Carlos’ eyes sprang open. Widened. A huge smile spread across his face. “Sergeant, you’re okay.”
The relief and happiness in Garcia’s voice made Dare’s throat burn and his eyes sting. “Getting there. Can’t let you have all the attention.”
“Someone has to get the hot nurses.”
That sounded more like the ranger Dare knew. “That would be you.”
