Page 21 of When Sky Breaks
He pats my leg. “It’s all right. I don’t know the reasons why I had to get this, too, but I know I’ll beat it. I have too much to live for. I miss her with every fiber in me, but I know you and Trek still need me here.”
Tears blur my vision, and I quickly swipe them away as I pull into the hospital parking lot. Foster needs me to be strong with him, so I ignore the guilt I harbor at staying away for so long and the pressures of the outside world. I’m here now and I’ll do anything for him to get better.
* * *
The room we’re in is cozy, the walls a warm green color with an array of pretty pictures framing each wall. Sun filters in through the large windows and we’re facing a courtyard complete with a pickleball and tennis court.
Seated around the table in the room are Dr. Ramirez, Foster, and me. Trek stayed at home to work, and we’ll update him later. At any moment, Johnny is expected to show. My nerves go into overdrive and my palms sweat. He better remain professional around me. I’m not ready to have that conversation with Foster—we have to focus on his treatment plan. And the last thing we need is any conflicts of interest messing with this.
“We’re just waiting on Dr. Hawk. He’s getting us all some coffee. He said he’s close to you, Ms. Winters. How do you know Johnny? He comes with a great reputation, so we’re happy to have him on the team.”
Well, shit.
The door opens, and Johnny breezes in, his arms loaded down with coffee cups in a carrier and a bag of what smells like pastries. I was too nervous to eat this morning, but on cue, my stomach grumbles.
“Sky works at the same hospital I do. She’s in pediatrics, but we’d occasionally cross paths at hospital functions.” He winks at me as he sets down the coffee carrier and bag, reaching over to squeeze my bicep before lowering to his chair.
Foster tilts his head and glances at me with a hint of suspicion on his face before holding out a hand for Johnny. “Nice to meet you, Dr. Hawk. Appreciate your help.”
“I insist you call me Johnny. Please.”
Coffee, fruit, and donuts are passed around, and I stuff one in my mouth to avoid blurting out anything I shouldn’t.
I listen and take notes as Johnny speaks. He pulls up Foster’s scans and walks us through what he sees and what he believes to be the best approach. Six months of chemo and radiation with regular blood work-ups.
Johnny’s sleeves are rolled to his elbows, and his mahogany brown hair is slicked back with a hint of gel. I almost wish a flop of his hair would come undone so he wouldn’t always look so put together, but that reminds me entirely too much of August’s unruly hair, and I immediately focus on the words coming out of his mouth instead.
“You’re very lucky, Mr. Berry. This cancer is not as aggressive as others, and even though it was caught later than we’d like, you’re still on the road to full remission as long as we get started right away. First is your port, and then we’ll schedule your first chemo treatment.” He’s all business, and I’ll admit it’s hot to see him in action. “Any questions so far?”
Foster shakes his head. “I imagine when I do, I’ll know who to ask.”
Johnny winks at me again, making my stomach bubble with something I’m not sure of. “Yeah, well, between me and your brilliant daughter, we can answer anything you need. And, of course, Dr. Ramirez. You’re in excellent hands, Mr. Berry.”
I notice my dad didn’t ask Johnny to call him Foster, but elect to think it’s his nerves.
After Dr. Ramirez excuses herself for another appointment, Johnny leans over and tweaks my ear before running his thumb along my jaw. “What are some good restaurants around here? I’d love to take you out to dinner since it’s been a while.”
I shift away from him slightly, but Foster catches it all. His blue eyes are keen on Johnny, also waiting for my answer.
“Um, well, there’s the Mexican place or Chinese,” I say weakly, avoiding Foster’s piercing gaze, instead feeling the confusion he’s aiming at the side of my face.
“Well, doc, how about you just come on over to our house instead? I’m sure Sky wouldn’t mind introducing her new friend to the family.”
Johnny perks up and turns to Foster. “I like that idea. How about six? Does that work for all of you? And it’s on me. I’ll handle the food. I’m a bit of a foodie, and I’m pretty good at guessing what people love to eat.”
Foster stands and claps Johnny on the shoulder before lifting his jacket from the back of his chair. “Is that so? Sounds like a plan. We’ll see you then.”
Foster steps outside and I follow, but Johnny tugs me back and grabs my chin for a kiss. Flustered, I lean away. “We probably shouldn’t do this here. It already feels like a breach of ethics or something, and I don’t want to cause any problems.”
Johnny, a bit wounded, brushes a thumb over my cheek instead. “You’re right. I apologize. So, dinner with the family? I’m sure I can find something in one of these tiny strip malls for you all.”
I huff out a small laugh and grab my purse, pulling the strap over my head and across my chest. “Sorry, it’s not as fancy as what you’re used to.”
“No, but it’s quaint. Kinda cute.” Johnny smiles his big smile and grabs the leftover bag of donuts and tosses it in the trash. “I’ll think of something other than the sugar I just let you all consume.”
He opens the door and ushers me to where Foster waits.
“You ready, baby girl?” he asks, eyes on Johnny.