I used the opportunity to slip away, squeezing Marco’s hand one last time.
“I have to get back to work. Feel better, okay?”
“Will you come visit me?”
His eyes were hopeful.
“You could sign my cast.”
I hesitated, glancing at Dante, who was still focused on the doctor.
“We’ll see.”
I made it halfway across the ER when I heard my name. Turning, I saw Dante striding toward me, his presence causing medical staff to step out of his way instinctively.
“You’re leaving.”
“I need to get back to work. My break is over.”
He studied me for a moment, then pulled out his phone and typed something quickly.
“Not anymore. I spoke to your supervisor. You have the rest of the day off.”
I blinked.
“You can’t just—”
“I did. Have dinner with us tonight. Marco would like it. And we need to discuss your decision about the position.”
It was not a request.
I should have been annoyed at his presumption, but instead I found myself nodding.
“All right.”
“The car will pick you up at 6:00.”
He turned to leave, then paused.
“Thank you for staying with him.”
Before I could respond, he was gone, returning to his son’s side with the single-minded focus I was beginning to recognize as his defining trait.
The car arrived precisely at 6:00. This time, I was led through a different entrance to the mansion and into a warm kitchen where Marco sat at a large island, carefully coloring with his left hand.
“Miss Ellie, you came! Look at all the signatures on my cast.”
I examined the green plaster, already covered with names.
