Ch. 9
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"Angel, honey, it's okay," I said soothingly rubbing her back. This was the third time she had vomited since dinner last night, and now it was morning. Staying up all night with a sick child- Merry Christmas!
Nick appeared in the doorway. "How's she doing?" I stared at the still vomiting child. "I think she's had better days."
Angel leant back against me. "I'm done now."
"Okay, honey, let's get you back to bed." I faced Nick as I lifted the little girl into my arms. "Could you get the kids their breakfast? And make sure they catch the bus?"
"Sure."
As much as I hated to admit it, Nick was actually quite helpful. "Kevin?" Angel whispered as I entered her room.
"Yes?"
"Could we call Mommy later?"
I pulled the covers over her. "Of course, you just get some rest. You need anything?"
"Could I have a glass of water?"
"Sure, I'll be right back."
"Nick, don't you have to go school?" I heard Aaron asking as I reached the bottom of the stairs.
"I have a tutor while I'm on the road."
"Oh."
I removed a glass from the cupboard while watching the children pick at their meal. "How you doing, BJ?" I asked noticing her sour expression.
"As well as could be expected."
I had to feel sorry for her. I'm sure she'd rather be near her mother than me, as did Angel. And accuatly, I'd prefer it that way, too.
"Aaron, Leslie the bus is here. BJ you better start walking to your stop," Nick announced glancing out the window.
I watched Aaron grab his lunchbox and hurry to the door; and BJ threw her backpack over her shoulder. And Leslie.....Leslie? I turned my head to Nick gently shaking her. "Come on, Les, wake up. Time to catch the bus." She sleepily took her bag from his hands and stumbled out the door.
Nick yawned as the bus pulled away. "Kevin, do you mind if I go back to bed? I'm beat."
"Go ahead." Nick's sudden burst of energy had faded, and his fatigue had returned. But now maybe I could catch a couple of hours of sleep. "Kevin!" I heard Angel crying.......Then again, maybe not.
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