He did not abandon you Bridget. He needs help and he's getting it and when he comes back he'll be that much stronger.
I didn't even say anything yet, Sam.
No, but you're wound up so tightly I'm afraid you're on the verge of springing wide open. Do you want to talk for a bit? I'll be free this afternoon. I can come over.
No, I want to sleep but I'm too wired.
Bridget-
Not to escape. I haven't been to bed properly since Friday, Sam.
I know. Get some rest then but if you need me call, okay?
I will. I promise.
I press End on my phone and throw it on the cushion. I sit back and reach for Daniel's hand. He is pretending to read but he keeps nodding off and I wait and count and then try to slide the book out of his hand and he will startle and insist that he is fine. But he won't go lie down and he won't leave my side and I know he's a little bit scared and a little relieved too but Ben is still all he has.
Though, that's a lie. He has Schuy. He has me. He has everyone but no one replaces Ben.
That I understand.
My phone buzzes again and I reach to pick it up. It's a message from Caleb. How convenient. 50 days remain.
Asshole.
I text him back. ITS ABOUT YOU NOW? SELFISH.
He sends another. No but we can't help Ben now. He's in very good hands. If you were too things would be better but you're not so they aren't.
I send one back. Daniel's looking after me so I'm just fine thanks.
Caleb replies almost instantly. Daniel is made of moonbeams and unicorn tears so that gives me no confidence whatsoever. Where is Pyro when you need him? Wait! Don't answer that.
Not cool. If you look outside he's in the driveway with YOUR SON, cheering him up with a little show. What have you done to see to Henry's feelings about Ben being away?
I turn the phone off.
