Chapter 22

Alexei had gone across the hall to sleep last night when Donal said he looked tired. He protested he could sleep in the chair, but Donal was having none of that. “Even Dr. Artis says I’m doing better. I promise I won’t run away.”

“You win, little mouse, I’ll sleep. If you need me, I’m across the hall. I sent the nurse home. Tomorrow Dr. Artis will examine your feet and see what can be done. Also, we’ll go to the dentist to get your teeth cleaned and any cavities filled.”

Donal jumped when he heard Alexei’s voice from the end of the bed. “Good morning, I see you’re getting your reading time in. Have you finished the book?”

“No, I just got to the part where Peter tells Richie what he is.” Donal fingered the pages of the book lovingly.

“Does Richie run off screaming into the night?” Alexei asked with seeming interest.