I Walked Away And He Lost His Mind (Zephyra) novel Chapter 47

"Uncle Julian, I bet if you shaved your beard, you'd be a very handsome man."

Julian stroked his beard, not responding to my comment. Instead, he beckoned to us. "You two, come here."

Horace and I walked over to him. From somewhere, Uncle Julian produced two boxes, pulling them from the drawer of his bedside table like a magician. He pressed one into each of our hands.

Before we could ask, Julian's voice, low and raspy, said, "These are gifts for the two of you."

Horace smiled. "Thank you, Uncle Julian."

"What is it?" I asked curiously. "So mysterious." I had no idea where he was getting all these gifts from. I was about to open mine, but Julian stopped me. "Open it when you get home."

"Oh, okay," I said obediently. I noticed Uncle Julian was staring at Horace with a look of deep satisfaction. I turned to look at Horace too. He was gazing at me, his eyes filled with a soft, doting smile. I touched my nose and looked away.

After a restless night, I woke up the next morning to find Horace gone. Assuming he had finally left, I started looking up home-care nurses. I had things to do outside the hospital today, and besides, it was clear Uncle Julian was more comfortable with some privacy. A professional nurse seemed like the best solution.

But before I could leave, Horace returned, carrying a new thermos of hot water.

"You didn't leave?" I asked, surprised.

"Of course not," he replied casually. "I told you I'd take care of you and Uncle Julian. You're not trying to kick me out again, are you? It won't work. Uncle Julian already gave me a gift. He's very happy with me, so you can stop nagging."

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