Chapter 3The next morning, I’m standing at my post, waiting for Julian to return home from yet another double shift. It’s chilly outside, but the sky is clear, and the sun is coming up, promising a nice day. I could use a little sunshine.
I’m leaning my elbows against the railing, cradling the coffee mug in my hands, as I wait for him to arrive. The seconds are crawling by, but when his SUV turns into our driveway, I break out in a smile.
When he steps out of the car and sees me, he gives me a cautious smile as he approaches. On the days I’ve had a fever, I haven’t been out to greet him, so he knows what it means that I’m standing here, sipping coffee like I’ve got no troubles in the world.
“No fever?” he asks when he stops at a safe distance.
I shake my head with a smile. His face goe
