Chapter 234

Yale's face was a mask of seriousness, but Evangeline did not let him get a word in edgewise.

"You know how bad Grandpa Cole has been," she said. "If we hadn't pulled some strings with Walter to get Dr. George on board, who knows where he'd be now? There's only one thing on my mind: To have a baby fast, so he can cuddle his longed-for great-grandkid while he still can."

"I get it." Yale closed his eyes for a moment, hiding the wave of helplessness that threatened to show. "Evie, could you grab me a drink? I'm in the mood for some liquor."

Years in the service had turned Yale into someone who would drown his sorrows in a bottle.

It did not bother him that Evangeline, busy with baby-making plans, could not join him. He was fine drinking alone.

Evangeline, ever so sweet, fetched a wine glass and a bottle of red wine, pouring him a glass with a caring touch.

He swirled the wine glass absentmindedly, his eyes tracing the dance of the deep red liquid.

He was in pain, his heart aching,