Promises of Mercy(Montana Promises-Book 1) by Vella Day Read Free Book Online

that he would respond to her voice.
    “If you need me,” the doctor said, “I’ll be in my office.”
    Before she could turn around to thank him, the door closed and she was alone with Chris and Stone. Amber edged near, willing to see her brother move. Though it was dumb, she shook his arm. “Chris? Can you hear me?” Her voice cracked.
    Stone wrapped his arms around her from behind. “Don’t do this to yourself, baby.”
    She shook her head as the tears streamed down her face. “Is he really gone?”
    Stone let go of her, stepped to the side, and lifted her brother’s eyelid. Even she could see that his pupil didn’t register the change in light. Stone let go and stepped back.
    “Oh, Chris. I’m so sorry.” She hiccupped.
    Stone gathered her in his arms and held her tight. “Go ahead and cry. Let it all out.”
    She didn’t know why his words helped, but she buried her face against his flannel shirt. The material smelled fresh like her grandma had put it through the wash with her lemon-scented detergent. She fisted the material and cried. He rubbed her back using soft circular motions. Amber never let anyone see her breakdown, but with Stone, she sensed he understood.
    She had no idea how long she was in his arms, but when she looked up, he bent his head close and all she could focus on was the tenderness in his eyes.
    He straightened. “Come on, Amber. We both need to eat.”
    He must have noticed she hadn’t eaten more than a bite of the sandwich he given her. “I’m sorry I fell apart.”
    He lifted her chin. “If you hadn’t, I’d have been worried about you. It’s healthier to grieve.”
    His sobering words helped her gain some control. Then why didn’t she feel any better?
    She probably should call her mom, but what if her mother hadn’t taken Dr. Almaguire’s call yet? The discussion would be difficult and one of denial.
    Be honest . You don’t want to hear your mom’s response. When Amber did finally speak with her, she would ask her to break the news to Thomas.
    “Come on. Take one last look at Chris and say goodbye.”
    He turned her around , and the sight of her brother tightened her throat. Her bottom lip trembled. As if a heavy blanket fell over her and caused her to suck in much-needed air, she spun around and quickly exited the room, plastering her back against the wall for support. She closed her eyes and tried to calm her ragged breaths.
    When she finally had the courage to open them, Stone was there. He clasped her hand and led her to the elevator. She honestly didn’t care where they went or what they did. Chris was dead, and her life had changed forever.
    Thankfully, Stone didn’t give her any platitudes about how much better off Chris was now, or that she no longer had to worry about taking care of him. Instead, he walked by her side and was there to help her when she needed him. He didn’t bring her to the hospital cafeteria as she expected, but rather guided her outside.
    As if she was on autopilot, she climbed into his truck. He cut down Gold Avenue to Second Street. In less than ten minutes, they arrived in town. Since it wasn’t yet three, there were plenty of places in front of the Valley Café.
    “You okay with this?” Stone’s fingers hovered over the keys as if he’d pull back out if she wanted to eat someplace else.
    “This is fine.” She didn’t care where they ate.
    This time she waited for him to open her door. When he did, she welcomed his strong grip as she stepped to the pavement. The fresh air filled her lungs, helping to blot out the despair.
    They went inside the cozy café where only a few tables were taken.
    “Hey, Stone,” an older woman said from behind the counter.
    “Hi, beautiful.” He looked at Amber. “That’s Bea. She’s the owner.”
    Amber caught him wink at the lady. “You come here a lot I take it?”
    “Sure do.” His grin stirred something deep inside her.
    He planted his hand on her waist and led her to a booth on the