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Try as I had, the one thing I couldn’t escape was the amount of lavish bouquets that decorated the s? Yes Were they froan? I could only assume, since nobody I knew had that amount of money, or such impeccable taste Only the first delivery came with a card, and it was still in place on a thin, plastic stick peeking out of the vase of pink peonies beside my bed They were my favorite flowers, and he knew it I didn’t kno, but he did

"I went to see him yesterday" Hesitation was heavy in her tone

My ears perked against my will

"Why?" It was all I could ulars there, but Logan was a no-show after he’d left , scared mess I didn’t knohy I expected differently He didn’t care about me It wasn’t real--I tolduilt I could s, it didn’t matter anyway It was over

The bed dipped down behind id posture of my spine I waited for her to explain, irritated I’d even asked

"He called reed"

How lovely of her! I fought to quiet , unable to find my voice to tell her I didn’t want to know any ht, but I do know that he looks like he hasn’t slept since Don’t get upset, but…he’s paid all of your expenses here, and…asked ive you this Or, more so, deposit this into your bank account"

"What?" I rolled over, ignoring the sting in my bruised ribs She handed aping at it Fifty thousand dollars So that’s it He doesn’t come back to visit, but sends a check

My blood boiled

"You’re going to need a new car, and--"

"I don’t want his ain, taking my fury out on the small paper until I could tear it no more "Tell him no! The answer is no!"

I dropped the tiny pieces off the side of the bed, wanting to make it all disappear, but the insult was heavy on my heart nevertheless

"Cassie, be reasonable The other driver didn’t have insurance It could take years to see a diuy He’s an unemployed drunk, not to mention the cheap insurance you have isn’t in a hurry to pay up" She sighed and took my hand "I’m sorry, honey I know you don’t like handouts, but we’d never be able to afford this hospital bill or anything else that you may need Let hi ed breath Tears glossedchin

I had nothing I knew I couldn’t afford the bill, but taking an was not the answer After another deep, painful breath, I looked back at her, willing the tears away Her expression was hopeful

"I’ll refinanceat randparents left you that house to live in and enjoy, not to e and possibly lose if you can’t keep up with loan payments Your inheritance went to pay your tuition, so I know you can’t havethe room After a few laps, she stopped and approached the bed, frown lines set on her forehead "You’re out of work for at least the next six weeks, Cassie You need Logan’s help I’ hi the money s my oay I don’t want his help"

Myto do what is right for you, whether you like it or not You’re my baby, and I won’t watch you suffer when you don’t have to"

The roo before the door creaked opened Luke strolled in, holding a ser tote slung over his shoulder, oblivious to his hostile surroundings