Lucky Break (Lucky 3)

“Please don’t tell me you expect me to accept that answer.” He brushed away a tear she hadn’t realized had slipped down her cheek.

Lauren drew a deep breath. He’d just be relentless. “Fine. My sister’s lawyer is concerned about the tests the doctor wants to run. He needs to do more research and then he’ll probably have to file more motions on her case. I know I joked about it earlier but I really didn’t expect him to want more money. And that’s on top of the plumbing problems in the house.”

“I already told you I’m sure I can get J.R. to cut his numbers down some.”

She knew “some” wouldn’t be enough, but she appreciated his efforts.

“I know and I’m grateful. But what about the other problems? Which reminds me, I forgot to tell you that the back door doesn’t lock properly and there are deep ceiling cracks I didn’t notice earlier.”

He ran a hand over her hair. “I will do everything I can myself, which should bring things within budget.”

So much for not relying on him. She ran her tongue over her dry lips and forced a smile. “Thank you.”

He inclined his head. “No problem. Now about your sister-”

“Exactly. She’s my sister.” Lauren snapped at him before he could say anything. “Wouldn’t you do everything you could for someone in your family no matter what awful things they’d done?”

“Whoa.” Jason took a step back. “I don’t know what you think I was going to say-”

“You were going to ask if I was sure she’s worth it,” Lauren said, anticipating the worst.

He braced his hands on her shoulders. “I was going to ask if you’re sure the lawyer is billing you legitimately.” His voice was quieter, his tone more rational than hers.

“Oh.” Embarrassed for jumping to conclusions, she turned away. “I’m sorry. I guess I just don’t expect any sympathy from anyone.”

“Since when have I been just anyone? Besides, we covered this subject this morning. Now come on. Tell me.”

She wished she didn’t have to have this conversation, but he’d never give up until she did. “The lawyer is expensive, but so was every attorney I interviewed. He also has experience in this kind of case. And the monthly statements have seemed legitimate. I was just hoping he could make the retainer last longer.”

Her savings were dwindling so quickly and the repairs in the house adding up so fast, she was overwhelmed and would have to take drastic measures soon.

Her thoughts went to her beloved convertible in the driveway and her stomach tensed.

“I’m no expert on legal issues, and don’t take this the wrong way, but given the circumstances, are you sure he isn’t just spinning his wheels at your expense, promising you things he can’t deliver?”

She shrugged. “I honestly don’t know. But I have to do everything I can for Beth. Just in case he can accomplish miracles. What if she’s really mentally ill and wasn’t in her right mind when she did those things? Doesn’t she deserve good help and a second chance?” Before he could answer, she did. “If that’s the case, then the lawyer needs more money.”

“Which you’ll pay for how?” he asked gently.

She looked away. “I’ll figure something out. All I know is she needs better care than she’s currently getting.” She drew a deep breath, then exhaled, trying to calm her nerves.

A few more weeks until her dresses were shown in Paris. If they were the success everyone anticipated, if stores ordered the numbers everyone hoped, she’d be Galliano’s golden girl. She’d be able to afford a new red convertible and her sister’s hospital bills.

If not, so be it. She’d pull herself together and move on. Figure something out. What other choice did she have?

“Lauren?” Jason asked.

“Hmm? I still have some savings left.”

His dark gaze bored into hers. “I can lend you money to tide you over. And once you hit it big with your dresses, you can pay me back.”

She blinked in surprise. “What did you say?”

“I can lend you-”

“No, after that?” Her breath caught in her throat as she waited for his reply.

“I said when you hit it big, you can pay me back.”