119: Twenty minutes

Demian

Rachel hugged me during breakfast.

“Aren’t you going to eat?” I asked her.

“No, I already ate earlier,” she replied.

“I’ve been thinking about something all night, and I’d like to talk to you about it, Rachel. I know you don’t want to and won’t like the idea, but I would be very happy if you accepted Dana into our home until she recovers. The accident has worsened her condition and pregnancy, and she has no one to take care of her. I want to know what you think about Dana living here. It will be temporary. If we’re lucky, Jeremy will wake up and recover.”

I looked at Rachel, scanning her facial expressions. I didn’t want her to get angry at my request. I spoke to her with love so she would understand. My situation wasn’t easy: I knew I brought these things upon myself, but I needed Rachel’s help. We couldn’t abandon Dana in the hospital and then let her go home alone.

My babies needed my protection. Dana could take care of herself during the pregnancy, but she needed help.

“Act