“And he believed you?” I smile at that, obviously. Dayton has been a permanent fixture, and he’s made it clear to not only me but my family that he’s not going anywhere. Even when we haven’t been here at the hospital, he’s been at my side—or I’ve been at his—since during the few breaks we got, the two of us have slept at his place in his bed together.

“I didn’t give him much of a choice, and I told him that you were coming, so I wouldn’t be alone for long.”

“I like him.”

“Me too,” I say quietly. Getting up, I fold up the blanket I was using and toss it over the back of the chair, then start to stretch out my back.

“How did you sleep?”

“Surprisingly okay.” And I do mean, surprisingly, since Dayton and I both slept in the single recliner last night. I doubt he feels the same as me since I was using him as a bed and a pillow, but he didn’t complain. Then again, he never complains unless it’s about me not eating or sleeping.

“You should go home and shower sweetheart, maybe take a nap.”

“I think I’m going to; I also need to check on PJ.” Clay went and got him the day Dad had his surgery, and he’s been staying with him and Willow when Dayton and I have been at the hospital. I know from the pictures and videos that Willow sends me that he’s had the best time with Skye and Rowen, who keep him busy, but I miss him like crazy. “I’ll come back this afternoon. The nurse mentioned that the doctor wanted to talk to you about Dad’s release plan.”

“Release plan?”

“I guess that they are planning on sending him home soon.”

“He just had major surgery. He’s barely sitting up and hardly awake for more than a few minutes.”

“I doubt it’s going to be something that happens today, but I think they want you to be prepared for when it does.”

“I guess.” She agrees, looking unsure.

“It will be okay; we can set up the downstairs bedroom so that you and he can stay in there and hire a nurse to come in and help out so that you don’t feel overwhelmed.”

“You’re so smart.” She says quietly.

Stepping up to the side of Dad’s bed, I bend over to kiss his cheek before I walk around and hug Mom.

“I’ll be back, and if the doctor comes in before I get here, just call me.”

“Thanks, honey.”

“You’re welcome.” I give her another tight hug, then let her go.

“Do you have your car?” she asks as I grab my purse.

“No, but I can just get an Uber.”

“Take my car.” She picks up her bag and starts digging through it.

“Are you sure?”