Shattered Heart: A Single Dad Romantic Suspense

by Lara Norman

  "Fuck."

  It was the only thing they heard before Devon sank to his knees.

  Caleb picked his head up and looked over, seeing his brother on the floor. Without thinking twice, he went over and helped him up. Leading Devon to the chair he'd been sitting in, he instructed him to sit and stayed directly behind him with both hands on his shoulders as they bowed and fractured.

  The door behind them opened with a soft click, and Caleb looked over to see his mother and his wife. Lori went to Caleb, leaning into him and wrapping her arms around him. He held on, needing to be given comfort instead of giving it. Lydia gasped as she gazed at Hailey and rushed to Devon's side. Chloe brought over another chair, and Lydia sank onto it as her legs turned to jelly.

  "Oh, Devon," she whispered as she leaned her head on his shoulder. "Your father is in the hall speaking with the doctor. I was going to do it, but I just needed to see you and our girl."

  He gripped the hand she offered and brought it to his cheek. "She looks awful."

  "I know."

  There was silence again, apart from the machines that pumped and whooshed. Devon heard sniffles around him but couldn't find the strength to guess who they belonged to. Maybe everyone.

  The door opened again and Don came in, not taking his eyes off Hailey as he reached Lydia. "I've spoken with the doctor, and it seems it'll be a long time before she wakes up, Devon," he began as he moved closer. "She needs sleep to heal. The nurses will come in and bathe her after the police have assured them no more evidence can be collected."

  "It's a broken arm, a concussion, and some other things," Lori said. "I forget."

  "It's fine." There was no point pretending he nor anything else was fine, but the words came out of his mouth before he could stop them. Devon stared down at his baby, her injuries burning into his memory. He wanted to touch her but fear stopped him. He was terrified he'd hurt her.

  How would he ever leave her side again? How would he go about his life and let her go about hers? Assuming she healed physically, would she be damaged emotionally? Mentally? He knew he was. His soul was seared with permanent scars.

  She was his heart, his entire reason for living, and someone tried to take her away from him. Hate festered, flaring in his gut and rising to the surface, but he pushed it down ruthlessly. He would wait. He would bide his time, focus on his daughter and her recovery.

  But he would never truly rest until the motherfucker who was responsible paid with their life.

  Chapter Eight

  Time was a finicky thing. Some days it came down to living minute by minute while the very next day could hurtle along like an earthbound meteor. To Devon, it felt as if every second ticked by in the span of an hour. Each minute was a day; each hour a week. He had never wanted time to fly more than he did in those first days after they found Hailey. She slept and slept, no sound permeating the hospital room save for the soft noises from the machines. He constantly sat by her bed praying for her recovery, begging her to wake up and look at him. He longed to see her happy blue eyes looking at the world around her in awe the way she’d done since she was a baby.

  Lori came to sit with him on the first day. His mother had cleared her from bed rest but still had to take it easy. She didn't speak, too ashamed of the thoughts in her head to put them out there where she couldn't take them back.

  Devon spoke instead. “She looks so frail.” He kept his words hushed, as though they sat in a library.

  “She’ll get stronger.” Lori wiped tears from her cheeks.

  “It’s not your fault.”

  There was a pause as she thought about what he said. She was having a hard time not taking on responsibility for what happened. “It’s scary that you know what I’m thinking.”

  He shrugged, but his gaze never strayed from the girl in the bed. “We’ve known each other a long time. It’s easy to figure out you’d blame yourself.”

  “How can I not? It is my fault. I was in charge of watching her.”

  Scrubbing his hands over his head, he sighed. “Fuck, Lori. How can I blame you when it’s myself I can’t forgive?”

  She looked at his profile, the three-day beard covering his jaw and the circles under his eyes visible even from where she sat. “It sure as hell wasn't because you weren't watching her closely enough. That’s all on me.”

  “I’m the one who assumed you were infallible. I decided you could watch her and work in the office alone. I didn't hire anyone to help you, despite knowing you’ll be out soon and we’ll need help.”

  She snorted. “By that definition, I should have known I could use help and that I’m not Superwoman.”

  Devon rubbed at his eyes and said nothing. There was no way he’d ever blame anyone for his daughter wandering off other than himself. The bastard who thought Hailey was worth nothing more than a piece of trash, on the other hand . . . yeah, he had plans for them.

  “Do you have all the test results yet?” she asked after a few minutes of relative silence.

  “No sexual assault,” he said without inflection. “She was hit in the head with a blunt object which knocked her out and caused some swelling. There were tire tracks to and from the well, so it’s safe to assume she was transported there for the sole purpose of dumping her. She has several fractures to her right arm from hitting the bottom of the well. Her right hip sustained a hairline fracture. Dehydration, contusions, etcetera.”

  Lori frowned at the monotone way he described his daughter’s injuries as though he was reciting impersonal facts. She could guess it was to detach himself from the horror of the reality. They’d all been terrified to think his little girl might have been raped. “Any idea when she’ll wake up?”

  “When the swelling goes down. After that, it’s anybody’s guess. She needs the rest to heal.” He flinched when he felt Lori’s warm hand on his arm.

  “You can talk to me, you know.”

  He didn't answer her. It wasn't personal; it was more that he was afraid to relax. If he loosened the stranglehold he had on his emotions, he was terrified he’d never be able to put the pieces back together.

  The door opened, and Devon looked up, seeing Simon Chatsworth step into the room. “Devon.”

  With reluctance, he stood. “Hello, Mr. Chatsworth.”

  “I came to see how your daughter is faring.”

  Glancing back at Hailey, his chest squeezed at the sight of her so small and frail in the giant bed. When he focused back on Simon, he noticed his gaze was also on Hailey. “She’s not good, but she will be in time.”

  Lori came to stand next to him and put her hand on his shoulder.

  “I was incredibly sorry to hear she was left on our property. I wanted you to know I’m working closely with Merrimac PD to offer help in their investigation. If you need anything from me or have questions, you can feel free to call me.”

  Devon took the business card he offered and tried not to snort. “Thanks. I don’t really have anything polite to say about who did this. I hope you plan to prosecute whoever it was and not be lenient.”

  One white brow arched on his wide forehead. “You’re insinuating it was one of my employees.”

  Devon caught the edge to his voice, but he didn't give a shit. “The police found her on your property, in a well left open for anyone to fall in or use as a murder weapon. A burial ground for my daughter. Those are facts. Other than that, we don't know, do we?”

  “No, we don’t.” Simon looked at Lori and her hand resting on Devon. “What is your wife’s opinion?”

  “My wife is dead,” Devon spit. “This is my sister-in-law.”

  Simon didn’t blush—probably couldn't under his ruddy leather complexion—but he looked abashed. “I apologize. The point of my visit was to inform you of our cooperation and to offer my sympathies. If it was someone from within my company, rest assured we will ensure they are prosecuted fairly.”

  Devon turned back to the hospital bed, unsure of what else to say. He heard Lori murmuring to Simon a
nd wondered if she was apologizing for him acting like a caveman. He wouldn't put it past her.

  “Devon.”

  He didn't look at Lori. “Yeah?”

  “Are you going to be okay?”

  Was he? No, he wasn't, and he didn't think he ever would be again. “I’m fine.”

  He heard her heavy sigh. “I have to go. I want to make sure you really will be okay.”

  “I don't need a babysitter, if that’s what you mean.” His tone was bitter because he felt as though he actually did need someone to look after him, and that was something he couldn't bear.

  “Okay, I’m sorry for upsetting you.” She came close enough to kiss his cheek and then she was gone.

  He sat again, focusing on his daughter’s face. Purple bruising covered a good portion of her cheek and forehead. The eye closest to him had swollen shut. Soon, he discovered he was crying again and wiped his face. Her nurses had given her a sponge bath that morning and she looked better than when they’d brought her in, but it was still difficult to look at her and not feel the raging need to go out on a revenge killing.

  When the door opened a second time, he almost cussed. He didn't have the strength for another visitor.

  “Devon?”

  Startled at the familiar voice, he stood back up. “Chloe.”

  She wore a gentle smile as she gestured to the door where she stood. He followed her out to the hallway, glancing back once more at the bed before the door snicked closed behind them.

  “Have you thought about the counseling I mentioned?” she asked.

  “I don’t think it’s something I need.”

  She watched him as he paced, his fingers scraping through his hair. Fingers which trembled. “All right.”

  “I don't know what you see when you look at me, but believe me, I’m not normally so—so wound up. I’m not neurotic.”

  “I believe you. Do you need me to stay with Hailey while you go home for a shower or a nap?”

  He stopped his manic pacing. “What?”

  Chloe tried a different tactic. “Can I help you in any way?”

  He stared at her for a few seconds. She had a patient expression on her face, like she had all the time in the world to stand there and let him act crazy. “Why would you help me?”

  “I volunteer here at the hospital a few times a week. I thought, under the circumstances, you might appreciate some help.” She stood with her hands clasped in front of her.

  “Oh. Is that why you had a key card last night?”

  “Yes, but also because my father is the D.O.N.”

  “The what?”

  “Director of Nursing.”

  “Oh.” Almost compulsively, he ran his fingers through his hair. “I hate to even admit this, but I shouldn't drive. I can’t remember the last time I slept properly.”

  “Okay. I can bring you a sandwich, or a cup of coffee.”

  “I guess.” He grimaced. “Um, thanks. That would be nice of you. I think my manners have gone out the window with my patience and understanding.”

  “That’s quite all right. It’s expected.”

  Chloe smiled, and he looked at her more closely. She was petite, maybe a few inches above five feet, wearing jeans and a blazer. She’d pushed the sleeves up to her elbows and her hair was in a ponytail. It appeared as though she was waiting for him to say something else. “Um, a turkey sandwich and a cup of black coffee.”

  “I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

  He watched her leave before going back inside the hospital room. It was late afternoon by then. The night before, Caleb had taken Lori home after staying for most of the night. Vince had arrived shortly after the McMillans, bringing Anna. His parents had stayed until the clock told him the sun should be rising. Devon hadn't slept, hadn't eaten, hadn't left the room the entire time.

  He dragged the ugly vinyl recliner close to her bed in an attempt to be more comfortable, but his brain refused to shut down when he tried to close his eyes. He shifted, trying to settle back into the chair. All he could picture was Hailey screaming as she was thrown down the well. Despite assurances that she was likely unconscious because of the head wound, he continued to see it played out that way.

  Startling awake, he discovered Chloe sitting on the opposite side of the bed, humming something softly and running her hand over Hailey’s hair. Blinking, he did his best to clear the sleep from his eyes as he tried to focus on them. He couldn't think of any specific reason for Chloe to be so helpful, yet there she was, caring for his baby.

  “Oh, you’re awake. I left your sandwich on the table there.” Pulling her hand from Hailey’s pillow, she pointed at the rolling table. “I’m afraid your coffee probably isn’t hot anymore, but I didn't have the heart to wake you.”

  “I didn't even realize I fell asleep.” His voice was thick and raspy so he cleared his throat. The clock on the far wall told him he’d slept for two hours. “You’ve been here the entire time?”

  “Yes. Um, the nurses came in and took her vitals. Other than that, it’s been quiet in here.”

  He could only blink again. She’d removed her blazer, but otherwise looked the same. “Thanks. I really needed some sleep.”

  “It’s not a problem. Would you prefer if I left?”

  Would he? He frowned, unsure of his answer. “I don’t guess it matters.”

  With a smile, she turned her attention back to Hailey. Chloe stroked her fingers over Hailey’s temple and down her head, carefully touching the uninjured parts of her. She hummed something vaguely familiar, but Devon couldn't place it. Instead of eating, he found himself drifting back to sleep.

  Chapter Nine

  By the end of the third day after Hailey was found, Devon still hadn’t gone home. He wasn’t willing to miss out on sitting with her because there was no way to know when she might wake up. Lydia continued to insist he leave for at least a little while, but he refused each time. It wasn’t just because he couldn't stand the thought of her waking up alone; it was more the need to be the first face she saw when she opened her eyes. There was a constant rotation of visitors to ensure he was never alone. According to Don, the general public continued to shower his parents’ front porch with gifts. Vince had made the rounds to Devon’s house to pick up what was left there, and even the shop had a shrine set up out front. Devon thought the memorials were too much like a funeral, and since not being forced to have one was one thing he could be grateful for, he didn't appreciate the similarities. The flowers would die, the food go to waste, and they would donate the stuffed animals. The cards and letters he might keep so he could give them to Hailey one day, just so she would know how loved she was by the people in her city.

  For most of day three, Don sat with him, bringing food to the hospital to encourage Devon to eat; usually, it was the donuts left on their porch. He had given much of what the well-wishers left to Caleb and Lori so they didn't have to cook as well as babysit Devon.

  Since Devon looked like hell warmed over, it was easy to see he needed someone to look after him on a daily basis. “Devon, when did you sleep last?”

  “I’ve been awake since four.”

  Don sighed. “And when did you fall asleep?”

  “Midnight.”

  There had been nobody there that late. Other than the nurse coming in to check on Hailey, it was dark and quiet in the room. It should have been the perfect atmosphere for sleeping. Instead, images of a faceless man grabbing Hailey from the shop plagued his mind. There were no leads at that time, but he heard they’d narrowed down the make and model of the truck from the tire tracks. Unfortunately, it was a common brand and didn't help at the moment.

  “When was the last time you ate anything substantial?”

  It was Devon’s turn to sigh. “This morning when the nurse brought me breakfast.”

  “Well, I brought a backpack full of food, clothes, and toiletries.” Devon used the ensuite bathroom to shower, but only when a family member was there to watch over Hailey.

/>   As Devon sat next to his father, he realized he should have expressed his gratitude a long time ago. “Um, Dad, thanks. I know I’ve been a pain in the ass lately, but I do appreciate what you’ve done for me.”

  Don rested his hand on Devon’s shoulder. “Of course. You’re going through a tough time; nobody expects you to be any more or less than what you are.”

  Any more or less. There was nothing left inside him, no feelings, no emotions. He’d emptied himself of it all, knowing he would turn into a raging monster hell-bent on revenge if he didn't. He had to bide his time, and he’d made peace with that. Hailey would always come first, but until she woke up, there was nothing. It was hard to remember to be polite or grateful. He was just numb.

  At noon, Caleb came and Don left. It would almost be funny if it wasn't so pathetic. They all watched him closely to ensure he didn't crack permanently. If only they knew it was too little, too late.

  Taking the seat beside his brother, Caleb asked, “Anything?”

  Without taking his gaze off her face, Devon answered the same question he’d heard a dozen times in the last six hours. “No, nothing.”

  At least Caleb didn't sigh as it seemed everyone else did.

  They sat in silence for half an hour until Devon remembered he should ask about Lori. “How’s my sister-in-law?”

  “Worried, but good. Her blood pressure has stayed down since they found Hailey. She’s been bored, I think. She’s used to having something going on all day and sitting in the house watching soaps isn't her thing.”

  Devon hummed. He knew about boredom. “Is the nursery ready?”

  “Yep. She’s washed and folded everything, rearranged the closet five times, and stocked the drawers of the changing table.”

  “Any customer complaints?”

  Caleb shook his head before realizing Devon’s focus wasn’t on him. “No. They understand the situation. I finished the table for the Wescotts since it just needed another coat of lacquer. Vince delivered it yesterday.”

  “We have to have someone to fill in for Lori. You know, eventually.” Assuming he ever had a reason to go back to work and make a living the way he used to, he would need a receptionist while Lori was on leave.