The door slammed open so hard I jumped, nearly dropping the phone.
“Lesley!”
I looked up. Fredrinn. Pale, hospital gown striped, chest wrapped in thick bandages. Blood soaked through. Lips drained. Eyes burning like fire.
My phone slipped to the floor. “Fredrinn! You should be in the hospital!”
He staggered closer, clutching the door. “Why, Lesley? Why were you trying to buy a grave?”
I forced a little smile, even though my heart had stopped. “Not what you think. Neighbor’s dog died. They asked me to help. That’s it.” I tried to sound calm.
He sagged, face twisted in pain. “Motor crash.”
I rushed to him, holding his arm. “Don’t talk. I’ll take you back to the hospital right now.”
On the ride, his head rested against the seat. His lashes fluttered like a boy too tired to fight. I stared at him, memorizing his face, the way his lips parted when he breathed. My voice trembled so softly only the wind could hear. “This will be the last time I worry about you. After this, I’ll already be in the grave.”
At the hospital, I signed papers, tucked him into bed, adjusted the blanket. He drifted into sleep.