Chapter 17

It had been three months since Tina
had last spoken to Bette, yet she still had made no further attempts to contact
her again. Although Kasey asked about that very thing each time she called
Tina. And as usual Tina’s answer was always the same…not happening Kasey.

Even the last couple of times she
had talked with Angelica, Tina noticed her intelligent daughter always managed
to bring Bette’s name into their conversation. But the truth was Tina just was
not brave enough to overcome her fear of rejection enough to even send her a
simple card letting her know she was in someone’s thoughts.

Romance was dead for her but the
last time Angie had called she had told Tina she and Maggie were going away for
a weekend alone and Tina was pleased to know romance for her daughter was still
very much alive. From everything Tina had observed and what Angie had shared
with her she had known for a while that the relationship between her child and
Maggie had taken a turn for serious. In fact, Angie had hinted that she
intended to ask Maggie to marry her as soon as they both completed their
education. Tina knew they were a great match and wished them much happiness.

“Hello.”

“Yes may I speak with Kasey Kennard-Timmons?”

“This is she. How can I help you?”

“Mrs. Timmons this is Duke Memorial
Hospital. Your sister was brought in last night unconscious and severely beaten
she is in critical condition. Her records show she had listed you and Angelica
Young as emergency contacts. Mrs. Timmons we have been unable to speak with Ms.
Young. At this point your sister has not woken up and when she does I am sure
she will want to see a familiar face.”

“Yes, yes I understand. I will
catch the next available flight out to LA. Thank you for calling.”

After she hung up she realized she
didn’t even think to ask the person what had caused her sister’s injuries. She
would find out when she got there but right now she needed to get to LA.

Walking in to the quiet hospital
room she noticed how small her sister looked lying in the small bed. But what
startled her most was the evidence of the brutal beating her sister had taken to
the face. She moved closer to the bed and very gently she ran her finger tips
over her forehead.