Ice and Fire novel Chapter 527

Jackson fell silent at Cherry's insistent tone.

"You could have them give her a general check-up, and if the results are good, you can take her home," Mond suggested when he saw Jackson's concern.

Jackson nodded in agreement.

When the Doctor came to give Cherry a check-up, Jackson, Mond, and Joe waited out in the corridor impatiently.

"What about Jean?" Mond asked, wanting to hear Jackson's thoughts.

"I have no idea, yet. All I want for now is to know she is safe. I have no time to think beyond that," Jackson stated, looking at the door where the doctor was examining Cherry. He was apprehensive, and until he knew she was fine, he wouldn't be able to focus on other matters.

Mond stared at the closed door too and suggested,"Leave the matter to me. After all, Jean was with me for a long time. Let me do this for her."

Jackson shifted his gaze staring at Mond, unsure how to respond. Even though he understood how Mond felt, he had misgivings. After all, this was Cherry's sister, so he was afraid of Cherry's reaction if he let Mond handle Jean's funeral.

It was as though Mond read Jackson's mind. He knew as Jean's relatives, Jackson and Cherry might not trust him with Jean's final matters.

"Don't worry, Jean's burial will be handled properly," Mond reassured him confidently as he rested a hand on Jackson's shoulder. Mond had confidence in his abilities, and knew he could settle this matter without any regrets.

Jackson stared silently into Mond's eyes for a long time and finally nodded in agreement. He believed that these were Mond's genuine feelings.

Joe walked over to Jackson, looking up into his eyes and asked,"Daddy, will we attend aunt Jean's funeral with Mommy?"

The innocent question took both Jackson and Mond by surprise, because the thought hadn't crossed their minds, and neither of the two knew where Cherry stood on the idea.

"Well, it depends on what Mommy wants. How about we ask her when we get her home and she is settled?" Jackson offered while contemplating, 'I was so focused on Cherry and how she was doing that I hadn't even considered attending the funeral. Now, I am more concerned about her feelings. I want to be supportive, and respectful of her feelings. If she wants to attend, we will, but, I won't force her.'

"Got it. We will wait till Mommy is in a better mood to talk to her about it," Joe said as he nodded.

When Cherry came out of the exam room, she saw Jackson, Mond and Joe hanging out in the hallway near the door.

As soon as Jackson saw Cherry, he strode over to her.

As he approached, the doctor standing next to Cherry greeted Jackson with a slight nod.

"Doctor, how is she?" asked Jackson.

After hitting send to the recipient, Mond, he slipped the phone back into his pocket.

"What's going on? Did something happen at the bar?" Cherry asked. She thought Jackson must have a ton of work backing up at the bar he needed to handle after being absent so long.

"No, it's nothing. Don't give it a second thought," Jackson reassured her smiling as he started the car and drove off.

There was only peace in her heart and calmness in her mind as Cherry watched the scenery pass by through the window. 'Jean left me.

Five years ago, she cost me my closest friend and confidant, but, the other day, she gave her life to save my son and me. Finally, she owed me nothing; perhaps I should call it even. She used to bully me, and I hated her for it years ago, but, over time, that changed. It was a blessing to have her back in my life. Before we could really make up and spend time together happily though, she left me forever.'

A tear slipped silently down her cheek as she thought.

Jackson had seen Cherry's sad expression, and reached out to hold her icy hand wanting to comfort her. He hurt inside wanting to protect her from all harm.

Cherry inhaled deeply, slowly, and as she exhaled, she pushed the contrary, sad feelings out before turning to gaze at the side of Jackson's face and tenderly whisper,"Jackson, I love you."

A slight nod and silence from Jackson greeted Cherry's words.