Terms of Love

EPILOGUE

Turning into the large entrance of the hospital, I slammed on the brakes so hard my car shuddered. My tires squealed and left black marks on the pavement. Flinging open the door, I lunged out of the seat, not even bothering to shut the door behind me. I was lucky I remembered to take the keys.

A security guard stopped me before I made it to the sliding doors of the hospital, holding up his hand.

"Ma'am, you can't leave your car there. The parking lot is across the street-"

I interrupted him, shaking my head. I tossed my keys in his direction. "Look, kid, I trust you. Park my car and bring me the keys."

"I can't do that!"

Reaching into my pocket, I grabbed a wad of cash. I had no idea how much it was, but to this kid standing in front of me, blocking my way, masking his youth by pretending to be forceful, I was certain it was a fortune. I shoved the money into his hand, smirking as his eyes widened at the sight of the cash.

"Sure you can. Think of it as a reward for a job well done. Park my car and bring me my keys." I pushed past him.

"Where are you going, ma'am?" he shouted.

I glanced over my shoulder as I hurried away. "The maternity ward!"

---

I tapped my foot as I waited for the elevator. My heart beat frantically, hands clenching and unclenching at my side, thinking of the call I received while having lunch with a client and Graham.

"Hello?"

"Lisa, it's Irene. I need you to come to the hospital."

Ice flooded my veins. "What?"

"Rosie's gone into labor."

I was on my feet, rushing out of the restaurant without another thought. I heard my name being called, but I ignored it. I jumped in my car, speeding toward the hospital. Rosie wasn't due for another three weeks. The baby was early. I had to get to her immediately.

The doors opened and I cursed under my breath as I waited for people to exit. Didn't they know I was in a hurry? I pressed six on the panel. Then hit the 'door close' button, even though people were still filing in. My head fell back on my shoulders as I inhaled a deep breath and counted to ten. I endured the slow ascent upward, trying not to snarl at people as they got off on other floors. I pushed the 'door close' button constantly, ignoring the frowns sent my way.

When the door opened on six, I burst out of the elevator, running to the desk. A nurse entering some information into the computer ignored me.

"My wife-"

She held up her hand, stopping me, and continued to type, not at all concerned with my panic. I wanted to scream, but I fisted my hands and held my tongue. Rosie constantly told me I needed to learn patience. A few seconds later, she looked up with a bright smile.