“And if you ever need baby cuddles to ease your heartache, I know a guy.”
“Well, I’ll happily give you a hand with Harrison. He’s an angel.”
“Not at night he isn’t.”
“If you ever need some time to yourself…or with Grayson…or you just want a nap, I can mind him for a little while. I’m sure Liam would love to spend any extra time with him.”
“Thank you, that is very generous, and I think I’ll be taking you up on it. Grayson isn’t dealing with this situation with Gramps very well, and the lack of sleep isn’t helping.”
I offered her a sad smile. “I’m sure it’s hard on you, too. Liam told me you’ve grown close.”
Tears glazed her eyes. “He’s just so…genuine. Without him, Grayson would’ve been a very different person—even Adam, to an extent.”
I frowned. “How so?”
“Have you met their father? He’s obsessed with wealth and power. Grampa has been the only person in their lives keeping them grounded. He reminds them of what life is really about and gives them the love and understanding they deserve. He encouraged both Grayson and Adam to find their own paths, and in completely different ways, they have.”
“And how do you think Grayson’s brother is coping with this?”
“Adam? Ha. He’s not. He just buries himself in more work to avoid facing it. To be honest, we’re all a little worried about him.”
“Is there someone else in the business who could take over for a while?”
“There are many, but he chooses to be involved in everything. Personally, I think he’s avoiding feeling any emotions at all.”
My heart dipped. “You’re probably right.”
The next day, I helped Liam down to his garden, where Josie and Grayson waited with Harrison with a surprise picnic under the elm tree. Liam held the baby in his frail arms while Josie took photographs of the two of them and close ups of their hands entwined. The perfect contrast of old and new.
In many ways, a baby helped soothe the transition into end-of-life. I could already feel Liam’s love for their little family and the contentment of watching them together. His peace radiated through his hazel-green eyes, and he knew, come time, they’d be okay.
“There you are,” a voice called out, drawing our attention.
A good-looking man in his mid-thirties strode toward us with Max by his side. His dark hair and sparkling brown eyes were no match for the stethoscope draped over his neck. Any man who saved lives for a living instantly scored a ten, regardless of looks.
“Hey, Doc,” Liam said with a welcoming smile.
“I was in the area and thought I’d check in on you.”
“No need. I’m as fit as a fiddle.”
The doctor laughed, showing off his perfectly straight teeth. “Alright, then.” He caught sight of me and did a double-take. “Is this your new girlfriend?”
Liam chortled in delight. “Don’t scare the poor girl, Marc. Cassidy is my death dealer.”
“Doula,” I corrected.
Grayson sniggered while Josie punched his arm.
“Hi, Cassidy.” He reached out to shake my hand. “I’m Liam’s doctor, Marc. I’m sure I’ll be seeing a lot more of you.”
The way he gazed over my body spread the heat in my cheeks southward. “I hope so—I mean, yes. I’ll be here.” I closed my eyes with a wince as he diverted his attention to Liam.
“I’ll return in a few days for a full check-up.” With a nod of acknowledgment to Josie and Grayson, he turned back to me as I endeavored to reclaim composure. “Lovely meeting you, Cassidy.”
“Likewise,” I rasped out.
While Grayson wheeled his grandfather back into the house, Josie sidled up beside me. “He was cute.”