Saving Forever - Part 4 Read Online Free PDF

they are hanging outside like a pack of vultures.” He grinned and shook Dr. Thompson’s hand one more time.
    Elijah turned and hugged her tight.
    Her stitches pulled but she didn’t care. This ordeal was finally over. It felt surreal. “It’s done.”
    “Thank goodness. I can’t believe it!”
    “Let’s just hope she’s out of our lives.”
    “Forever.”
    Her father cleared his throat. “She will be. I plan on making sure of that.” He glared past Charity to the woman who now stood hissing at her lawyer, grabbing her things and slapping her hand against the table.
    It was her turn to deal with the backlash of the media. Charity didn’t have an ounce of sympathy for her. Not anymore. She hoped the woman got the help she needed. She had to, or she wouldn’t ever be able to practice as a nurse again. That was part of the agreement they had signed after the shooting.
    Charity shook her head. She didn’t want to waste another moment thinking about her. “It’s nearly lunch, should we go and celebrate?”
    Her father shook his head. “I need to get back to the hospital. Maybe we can do dinner tonight?”
    Elijah clapped him on the shoulder. “I know the feeling. I just want to get back to work and focus on our jobs. What a relief!”
    Charity felt like a little kid trying to interrupt their conversation. It was silly. She straightened and gathered her purse. “You guys go back to the hospital. You should be there. My flight leaves in a few hours. I need to pack—”
    “Flight?” Her father’s eyebrows mashed together and worry lines formed across his forehead.
    “Remember? For the ribbon cutting event in Atlanta. I said I would be there for it.”
    “The hearing just finished. Couldn’t you wait till Monday?”
    She smiled. “I don’t think I can ask a hospital to postpone opening a new oncology floor because my dad wants me home for the weekend.”
    “That’s not what I meant.” Her father folded his arms across his chest.
    “Then what did you mean?” Charity hated being frank but sometimes it was the only way things worked with her dad.
    “I just…” He waved his hand. “Never mind.” He gave Elijah a curt nod, his mouth in a tight line. “She’s your problem now.”
    “Excuse me?” Charity wanted to stomp her foot, but kept her boot glued to the floor.
    “I’m kidding!” Her father chuckled. “Sorry. I only meant it as a joke. We both know we’re your problem, Charity, and I’m glad you still love us for it.” He glanced at her side. “If Elijah feels your injury is healed enough to fly, I’m not going to say anything. I can appreciate your dedication to the job and also to your family. Thank you for staying here throughout the hearing. You didn’t have to, but I’m so glad you did.” He stepped around Elijah and gave her an awkward hug. “Thank you.” He kissed the top of her head.
    Charity didn’t know what to say. She was too stunned by the sudden public display of affection her father never showed her.
    He stepped back, a look of surprise on his face as well. “Guess I’m happy this waste of time in court is over.” He sobered and checked his watch again. “Time to get some proper PR done now and let the papers write the correct version.” He grinned again. “Looking forward to Gerritt’s comments.”
    Charity and Elijah watched Dr. Thompson whistle as he strolled out of the courtroom.
    “I don’t think I’ve ever seen him this… excited.” Elijah shook his head.
    “I know,” Charity replied. “Talk about blow the roof off with the enthusiasm.”
    Elijah laughed as he put his arm around her. “He’s a good guy, you know. I’m just glad this damn thing is over.”
    Charity leaned into him. “Me, too.”

Chapter 5
     
    Charity didn’t want to leave Elijah, but she had to get back to Atlanta. She had been gone long enough and she knew once she got working again she would love it. She was glad Elijah had gone to the hospital instead of with her back