In a few months of working with Marion, Hope had become fond of her and her sons, both of whom were endearingly devoted to their mother. As the mother of a son, she could only hope that Ethan would care as much about her if such a fate should befall her someday.

God forbid.

She helped Marion with her breakfast, served her coffee exactly the way she liked it and navigated the morning battle of getting her meds into her, while Marion accused Hope of trying to poison her. She was used to it, as they had the same conversation three times a day.

“Mom, be nice to Hope,” Paul said when he emerged from the shower wearing a button-down shirt and jeans and looking far too handsome for her own good. “She’s trying to help.”

“I don’t need help from a stranger, George. I’ve told you that.”

Every time Marion mistook one of her sons for her late husband, Hope watched the light in their eyes go dim. It chipped away at both of them.

Hope poured a cup of coffee for Paul and pushed it across the counter to him.

His grateful smile for the small gesture tugged at her. He had so much on his shoulders, so many people counting on him, and at times Hope wondered who he counted on. Who did he turn to when it all became too much?

Not that she was paid to psychoanalyze her boss or his family. It’s not your problem, Hope. You aren’t being paid to worry about him. He’s a grown man who can take care of himself. Except—

“Are you ladies ready to go?” Paul asked.

With her thoughts interrupted by reality, Hope glanced at Marion, who muttered to herself as she perused the Gansett Gazette, her cereal gone soggy from inattention.

“Ready when you are,” Hope said.

“Hey, Mom,” Paul said. “We need to go see Doctor David this morning, okay?”

“Whatever for?”

“He wanted you to come in for your physical. I told him I’d drive you.”

“Why didn’t he call me? It’s none of your concern.”

“I know, but I promised him I’d bring you, so help me out, okay?”

Poor Paul had to repeat the entire conversation six times before he had Marion strapped into the front seat of his truck.

Hope climbed into the back, carrying the bag she brought with her everywhere she went with Marion. It contained a change of clothes, an adult diaper, wipes, snacks and a bottle of water. She tried to be ready for any possible catastrophe.

Since Paul was driving and the sun was shining, Hope took advantage of the rare opportunity to gaze out at the bright blue sky, to let the cool September air wash over her face.