Chapter 108

She and Chris could only ever be friends. Dating him? Not a chance.
Kylie’s eyes lit up as she caught on. “So, you’re into Connor, then? He’s a little older, sure, but honestly, he’s way more mature and dependable than Chris.”
Lydia just stared at her. She hadn’t said she’s into Connor.
Cameron reached over and patted Kylie’s shoulder. “Let’s give Lydia a little time, honey. Let them hang out and see how things go.”
Kylie realized she’d jumped to conclusions and gave an awkward laugh. “Right, sorry. Lydia, don’t feel pressured. Just go at your own pace.”
“Okay,” Lydia replied.
Back in the hospital room, Lucinda was gently wiping Mr. Norwood’s hands. Her eyes were still puffy and red from crying.
“Grandpa, I’m sorry. This is all because of me.” Her voice wobbled and, before she could stop herself, tears started falling again. She felt so helpless. She’d wanted to break down earlier, but she couldn’t let Cameron or Kylie see. She was terrified they’d figure out what she was really feeling and decide she couldn’t stay in the Norwood family after all.
Now that it was just her and Grandpa, she let herself fall apart a little. Growing up, her grandfather had always been the one who loved her most. Maybe, after everything, he’d be the only one she could really count on.
Mr. Norwood was weak and couldn’t really talk, but his mind was clear and his eyes gentle. He understood exactly how she felt.
He managed to move his fingers and softly patted Lucinda’s hand. His voice was rough and barely more than a whisper. “I… don’t… blame you.”
Lucinda’s tears fell even harder. “Thank you, Grandpa. Thank you.”
Right now, he was the only one who still cared for her the way he always had. Her parents’ love felt fake in comparison.
Seeing Lucinda sobbing beside the bed, Kylie and Cameron hurried over to comfort her.
“Lucinda, your grandpa doesn’t blame you. None of us do,” Kylie said softly.
Cameron nodded. “It was just an accident. We all know you’re a good kid.”
Kylie suddenly remembered Lucinda’s injured hand. “Oh, let me get some ointment from the nurse for your hand,” she said and hurried out.
Lucinda’s hand wasn’t as red as before, but up close, you could still see the difference. Kylie returned with the medicine and gently applied it herself. Only then did Lucinda finally stop crying.
Cameron looked at them and spoke up. “Honey, why don’t you take the girls home and get some rest? I’ll stay here with Dad tonight.”
Mr. Norwood had just come out of surgery and the doctor said someone needed to watch over him.
Kylie nodded. “Thank you, love. I’ll bring breakfast first thing in the morning.”
Before leaving, Lucinda leaned over to say goodbye to Mr. Norwood. Lydia turned to Cameron “Call me if anything comes up. The nurse can help you tonight so you can get ᴛʜɪs ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ ɪs ᴜᴘᴅᴀᴛᴇ ʙʏ
some sleep too.”
Cameron’s heart softened. His daughter was so thoughtful.
“I will. Don’t worry, Lydia. You’ve had a long day. Go home and rest.”
“Okay.”
As Lydia walked out, Mr. Norwood’s fingers twitched. He parted his lips like he
wanted to say something, but in the end, nothing came out.
After the three girls left, Cameron sat beside his father and spoke gently. “Dad, just focus on getting better Lydia never blamed you and she’s not really being distant. She just comes across a little cold, but she cares a lot. When you got sick, she was more worried than anyone.”