“I can see why. It’s an incredible focal point.”
“Liam likes to sit there sometimes. It brings him peace.”
“That’s good to know.”
Instead of the front entrance, Max ushered me through the back and into a mudroom where he left my suitcase. “I’ll take this up to your room while you’re getting acquainted with the family.”
“Thank you, Max,” I said, straightening my back in anticipation. I drew in a deep breath before trailing him down the grand hallway toward two French doors.
He rolled them open. “Mr. and Mrs. Harlow. Cassidy Ryan.” With a small nod, he moved to the side as I stepped forward.
“Thank you, Max. That will be all.” The woman who interviewed me ran her gaze up and down my body. “Cassidy. Take a seat.”
I moved to the vacant Chesterfield opposite Caroline, while Mr. Harlow occupied the wingback beside the fireplace. Neither stood to greet me.
“Harlow Manor is very beautiful,” I said, attempting to fill the awkward silence as I perched on the edge of the chair.
“It’s a little dated for my taste, but yes, it’s quite the estate.” She placed her interlocked fingers in her lap and exhaled. “Let’s get down to business, shall we?”
With my nod, she continued.
“Just so we are clear, Mr. Harlow and I aren’t comfortable with this arrangement, however this is Liam’s request, so we will tolerate your presence until the time comes.”
“I understand this is a diffic—”
“Regardless, it’s a perfectly large residence, so I don’t foresee any issues with you making yourself scarce while the family is here.”
“Of course.”With pleasure.
“Should you need anything during your stay, please speak to Max.”
“What the hell is adeath doulaanyway?” Mr. Harlow’s deep voice sliced through our conversation.
“William,” Caroline gasped, but he waved her off.
My smile was tight. “That is a perfectly acceptable question.” Which I answered on a daily basis. “I offer practical, emotional, and spiritual support for those nearing end of life.”
His gaze narrowed. “And what does that entail exactly?”
“It varies, but mostly I provide guidance, support, and companionship to the client and their family during this overwhelming time. I also offer alternative therapies, such as Reiki, to assist with anxiety and pain management.”
Mr. Harlow blew out a puff of air.
“I realize this isn’t for everyone, but it’s really up to the client and their wishes.” He wasn’t my first skeptic.
He glared at me.Mr. Harlow doesn’t care for strong women. Noted.
“I’ll take you upstairs.” Caroline stood. “Liam should be awake by now.”
“Fantastic. I’m looking forward to meeting him.”
The instructions continued as I followed Caroline up the ornate staircase. “We have a live-in nurse to tend to his medical needs and a doctor who checks in every week. You are expected to work every business day and be on call over the weekend. During this time, you must remain close by but unseen while the family is visiting. My sons will be alternating weekend visits, and we’ll return sporadically when our travel plans allow.”
She stopped in front of a door and opened it. “This will be your room. I’m sure it will suffice.”
Suffice? Holy shitballs!The room was enormous. “Yes, I think it will,” I said, completely void of tone.
“I’ll take you to see Liam now.”