Chapter 10

“My parents always wanted me to go to college,” Robbie said, sounding wistful even to his own ears.

“What interested you in school?” Johnny asked gently.

“Everything, but I really liked food science in high school. I only went the one year.” Robbie coughed again and tried to take a deep breath. “I used to cook breakfast for my parents on weekends.” Robbie’s breath hitched as if he was about to cry but he pulled himself together. “I still miss them,” Robbie said as Johnny patted his arm.

“Of course you do.”

“I’m going to Cisco’s office for the good coffee,” Caden said. “Baby, do you want some tea? I brought the stuff from Teavana, the lavender.”

“Will you have some of the lavender tea? It’s supposed to be soothing and it really tastes good.” Johnny asked Robbie.

“I’d love to try the tea.” Robbie began a paroxysm of coughing. “The nurse said I could order up a tray…for my visitors.”