The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 50

“And then, once I’m better, you can take me out for good food and fun, just like you used to. I love all the things you young people enjoy.”

Richard rambled on, his words a warm, continuous stream.

Suzie wasn't entirely sure if Jamie had lied. While she nodded along with Richard, she carefully observed his expression and energy level.

She casually picked up the medical chart at the foot of the bed and scanned it. According to the records, there was no mention of his condition worsening.

So, combined with Richard’s current state, it was clear: Jamie had been lying.

That liar! Why would he play such a trick on her? What was his goal?

Besides, she had specifically told him to tell Richard she had gone abroad. What did he end up saying? And what was the point of luring her here like this?

As these thoughts raced through her mind, Jamie walked over to her side. Just like in their previous charades, he slipped back into the role of the perfect husband.

He gently enveloped her hand in his larger one, and his voice, incredibly soft, sounded by her ear. “See, Suzie? I told you Grandpa couldn’t go a day without you, but you didn’t believe me. Now you’ve heard it from him yourself. Are you still going to leave? In this family, your company is the only thing that will help him recover. The doctors said so themselves—a happy mood is half the cure.”

“Just be good and don’t go abroad,” he continued. “Stay here with him. Once he’s discharged from the hospital, you can go study photography. I promise I’ll find you the best teacher, or we can even fly one here. As long as he gets out of the hospital safely, we can arrange it however you want.”

The moment the word ‘cream’ crossed her mind, the familiar wave of nausea returned. Unable to control it, a series of sickening lurches rose from her throat. Before she could even get up from her chair and run to the bathroom, a string of dry heaves escaped her lips. Her back arched with each spasm.

She knew that to an elderly person, this kind of reaction could only mean one thing.

The heaving continued. Without a second thought, Suzie bolted for the restroom.

When the feeling finally subsided and she emerged, it was just as she had expected. Richard was looking at her with a knowing, mysterious smile.