“I know that, but I need it from a professional, and I need a professional to see to it that she stays in the hospital while I figure out a way to cover the cost of a transplant.” She had six weeks to write a book and earn a few million, but that wasn’t guaranteed if the book wasn’t published.

Madison shook her head. “I can’t believe you would involve yourself in this. While I think you have the softest heart ever, and the best of intentions, I’m not sure it’s your place.”

Frustrated, Lauren whispered, a bit too harshly, “Of course, it isn’t, but I can’t stand by and do nothing. You wouldn’t, either, so don’t try to convince me otherwise.

“If you can contact James and give him my cell number, I’ll speak with him. I know this isn’t . . . I know it’s not my place, but Charlotte and Lee have no one. I couldn’t sleep a wink if I didn’t try to help them.”

Madison’s eyes pooled with tears. “And that’s what I love about you. You’re the kindest woman I know. And to answer your question, yes, I will call James, give him a heads-up and your number, then it’s up to you.”

“That’s all I’m asking. I knew I could count on you,” Lauren said. “I’ve got to get back to the store. I’ll keep you posted.” She gave her friend a quick hug and left the room, not bothering to stop in the office as she would have under different circumstances.

She was pulling into the parking lot behind the store when her cell phone rang. “Hello,” she said, not bothering to get out of her car. She didn’t want the girls to hear this conversation.

“It’s been a while, Lauren. What gives? Madison said it was a matter of life and death that I call you.”

Flooded with relief, she quickly explained Lee’s story. “I just felt that I had to do something.”

“I understand. I’m not sure what I can do, but I may be able to pull a few strings, keep her there a few more days. As far as costs, there are so many factors that go into this, I can’t give you an exact figure, but I do know most hospitals have what they call an indigent fund. It’s not spoken of, but it is there for situations such as this. Let me make a couple of phone calls, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I have a definite answer.”

“Thank you so much, James. I truly appreciate this, and I know Lee will, too,” Laura said, before hanging up.

She grabbed her purse and keys, unlocked the door, and went inside. Dropping her things on the desk inside her office, she stepped into the store. The three girls were gathered around the fireplace warming their hands. It was bitterly cold inside.

“I’m back,” she said with a huge smile on her face.

“We didn’t have any customers, except for a couple of ladies who stopped to admire the window display,” Lacey said. “It’s really nice, too.”