Grandma got run over by a reindeer, walking home from our house Christmas Eve.
“What?” Romy snickers.
The tips of my ears grow hot. “That’s Nona. She’s been worried, so I should take this.
“Hey, Nona,” I say sheepishly, rubbing the back of my neck as Romy watches me.
“How is she?”
“Mild concussion. I’m standing next to her.”
“I figured, since you’re not in the waiting room.”
“Wait. You’re here?”
Romy sits up straight.
“I brought her purse and keys. Can’t get far without those.”
“She brought your purse.”
Her expression softens. I’m not above using Nona to get my way.
“Jesus. I completely forgot about that.” She shakes her head and groans.
I narrow my gaze. “Romy.”
She seems to pale. I grip her arm lightly. “You okay?”
“What’s going on?” Nona asks.
“Sorry, trying to convince Romy I’m not a serial killer, and I can take of her.”
“She can’t be alone right now. You put that little lady on the phone.”
Grinning, I hold the phone out to her.
‘What?’ she mouths.
“She wants to talk to you.”
She shakes her head, and I nod. “Did you sic your grandmother on me?” she hisses.
“Whatever it takes.”
I watch unrepentantly amused as Nona wears her down. The women in my family are diminutive in size only. My mother barely tops five feet, two inches, and I still fear her.
“No, ma’am, I wouldn’t feel right intruding on you and your husband during the holiday season. ... I’m sure he is. ... Uh-huh.” She shoots daggers at me with her eyes. “I’m sure we can work it out for a day. You don’t have to move my car. ... Yes, I suppose a change of clothes would be nice for him.” Her shoulders slump, and she gives me an exasperated look. “We’ll see you soon.” She hands me the phone. “I see stubbornness runs in your family.”
“You’re welcome.” I wink.
She snickers, revealing an honest to God dimple in her left cheek. How can she be so sexy and adorable at the same time?
“I am sorry to hear about your friend, but you never answered my question.” She pushes off from the bed and sways slightly.
I catch her, wrapping my arms around her waist. Steadying her, I look down. “What question?”
“Why do you care so much about me?”