Chapter 13 - THE FIRST MORNING WITHOUT GUARDS
Six months later, Liam walked into a coffee shop in downtown Chicago.
Slowly.
With a cane.
But on his own.
Clara was sitting near the window.
She looked up.
And froze.
“Liam?”
He smiled nervously.
“Hi.”
She stared at the cane.
Then at his face.
“You're walking.”
“Some days.”
Her eyes filled.
He approached the table.
“May I sit?”
She laughed.
“Yes.”
He sat carefully.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then Clara asked, “How are you?”
Liam considered the question.
“Better.”
She smiled.
“Good.”
He looked at her.
“How's Tommy?”
“Still in treatment, but doing well.”
Liam nodded.
“I'm glad.”
Clara studied him.
“You look different.”
He smiled.
“Less terrifying?”
“Less miserable.”
He laughed.
Then hesitated.
“Clara.”
“Yes?”
“Would you go on a date with me?”
She stared.
He continued.
“Not as my nurse.”
“Not because I paid you.”
“Not because you saved my life.”
His voice softened.
“Just because I'd like to know you.”
Clara looked at him for a long moment.
Then smiled.
“Yes.”
Liam closed his eyes.
“Really?”
She laughed.
“Don't make me regret it.”
May you like
He grinned.
“I'll do my best.”
