When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 34

Sheila was lucky. She didn’t have any real injuries, and her breathing and temperature were normal. Brody got her settled under the covers and turned on the heat. That was when he noticed pills scattered on the floor. He picked up the bottle and sighed. Sedatives. Again.

Sheila had struggled with mental health issues since she was a kid. Anything too emotional could knock her off balance.

Brody felt a wave of regret. This was the second time it had happened. He waited by her bed, the room now tidied up, an IV drip in her hand. Two hours passed before Sheila finally stirred.

“Brody…” Her voice was barely a whisper.

He turned to her, looking tired. “How are you feeling?”

“I’m okay… Did I scare you?”

She couldn’t even meet his eyes, cheeks burning with embarrassment.

“The doctor said you’re fine, but you can’t keep taking these pills. Next time you feel anxious, call me first, alright?” Brody kept his gaze on the window. She’d only called him after she’d already taken the meds, after everything had already gone wrong. Just like before. And, just like before, it was all because of him.

“I know you have your own stuff to deal with,” Sheila said quietly, sounding so small.

“That’s not true.” Brody’s voice was even, almost cold. “Your father asked me to look after you. That’s what matters.”

“So you’re only doing this because of my dad?” Sheila’s voice broke a little as she stared at the side of his face, her eyes shining with tears.

She’d been fighting her feelings for so long. After all these years, Brody had changed. He was more distant now, more careful to keep her at arm’s length.

Brody didn’t answer her question. Instead, he said, “Nothing was stolen here, which means whoever broke in was after you. I’ve already called the police and I’ll make sure there’s someone here to keep you safe.”

“Don’t ask meaningless questions like that.” Brody didn’t want to go there, but seeing how fragile she was, he softened a little. “I don’t love her. You’re the one who matters to me.”

“But I only matter because you feel responsible for me…” Sheila’s voice was barely more than a whisper. Brody didn’t say anything this time.

The room felt heavy. Sheila tried to change the subject, anything to break the tension. “So what happens now? I heard she’s filing for divorce.”

Brody stood up, dodging her question again. “I’ve arranged for someone to come and look after you. She’ll be here soon.”

Sheila reached out, grabbing the edge of his shirt, her hand trembling. “Brody, don’t you want a divorce? Why do you keep making yourself stay with someone you don’t love? Is it just to keep a promise?”

Her voice was rough, thick with unshed tears. “I know you’re always trying to do the right thing, but you’ve never seemed happy. Isn’t it exhausting, living your whole life by the rules?”