This tenderer version of Aubrey had been missing for a decade. She seemed genuinely relieved to see him, her hand stroking his forearm the way she used to whenever she was anxious.
“I can’t believe my dad kept you from seeing me. He’s ridiculous.”
Rather than agree, which Vic did, he said, “I’m here now.”
“Good.” She sniffled and smiled. “Bust me out of here, will you?”
“As soon as I can,” he promised. She wouldn’t do well confined to this room, that was for sure. “Your doctor’s a smart lady. She knows what’s best for you.”
“She said it’ll take a while to regain my memory.” Aubrey shook her head and looked out the window. “Amnesia, Vic. Like a damn Lifetime movie.”
He had to chuckle. She was sure acting like herself—her wry sense of humor in place, her vulnerability, her pinpoint honesty. She was going to be fine. He’d make sure of it. If he had to scour the entire state of Texas—or the world—for a medical team who could help her recover, he would.
Though her father’s promise that she would hate Vic once she regained her memory gave him pause. Vic wasn’t so stupid to think she’d live and let live once she remembered the way they’d broken up back in the day. It was probably best to trust Dr. Mitchell, and in the meantime, Vic would provide what Aubrey wanted whenever she wanted it. Right now, miraculously, she wanted him.
He’d take that second chance, short-lived though it might be. He’d take that all the way to the bank.