Chapter 23

The doctor emerged from the operating room when the red light turned green. He'd often seen families breaking down in worry while waiting outside, so he wasn't surprised to find Nigel and the others in such a state. "Glad you got the patient here fast. We managed to resuscitate him, but he's still weak and will need to stay in the hospital for observation," the doctor said. Nigel felt a weight lift off his shoulders. Lewis and Kate headed off to handle the bill, while Meryl walked with Nigel to the ward. Mark came around on the third day. When he saw the guilt on Nigel's face, he sighed and wiped his tears away. "I'm getting old and falling apart. One slip, and look at the mess I've caused." Nigel held Mark's weathered hand and shook his head. "Grandpa, you're not old at all. You've still got so much life ahead—to see our baby born and watch them grow!" Mark's eyes brightened at the mention of a baby. "So, I'm going to be a great-grandpa? Guess I'll have to stick around longer,