ALL HE WANTED to do was fade into the woodwork.

Instead, as he sat in the doctor’s office, he realized he was a supreme pain in the ass.

“My hand’s fine, Mrs. Decker. This isn’t necessary.”

“Call me Rina, and how do you know what’s necessary?” She took in her charge. Gabe was neatly dressed in a clean white shirt and jeans. Athletic shoes housed big feet. His face looked tired, his eyes dragging behind his glasses. He had broken out all over his forehead. His hair was hanging into his eyes and brushing the top of his shoulders. Nice hair—thick and shiny.

Gabe wiggled his fingers. “Nothing’s broken.”

“You have nerves and tendons, right. I’d be derelict if I didn’t check it out.”

“Why would you be derelict? You don’t owe me anything.”

Rina gave him a stern look. “I’m not your mother. I’m not your father. I’m not even your legal guardian. I barely know you. But for some reason, providence has dropped you into my lap. And I shall take care of you until otherwise directed.”

The boy said, “My dad’s around somewhere. I’m sure he’d sign papers for me to go to a boarding school next year.”

“Is that what you want?”

“I dunno.” A pause. “It’s a little late in the year to start applying, but I’m sure I could get in anywhere. Talent trumps all.”

“Any specific school in mind?”

“Doesn’t matter. I told the lieutenant that I could get into Juilliard when I’m sixteen, so I guess all I have to do is hang in for a little over a year. As far as a high school, they’re all the same.” Gabe made a face. “It would be helpful to find a piano teacher.”

“Where would I find the kind of teacher you need?”

“There are two really good ones at USC. I’d have to audition. Probably should wait until my hand is a hundred percent.”

“Okay. Let’s get you healed up and we’ll take it from there.”

Gabe flicked hair out of his eyes. “I really appreciate you letting me stay with you.” A pause. “I do like my aunt. She’s a real nice person but she’s immature and very sloppy. I get physically ill when I’m in messy surroundings.”

Rina laughed. “My sons’ room has never looked so neat. Can I sic you on my daughter’s room?”

“I can’t go in there,” Gabe said. “It makes me nervous.”

The boy was dead serious. The nurse called his name. As he stood up, the nurse said to Rina, “You can come in with him if you want?”

Rina shrugged. “Up to you.”

Gabe said, “I don’t care. It’s just my hand.”