Family Be Mine Read Online Free

treatment, you were amazing, more than amazing. I still can’t believe how you insisted on coming in practically every day while you were undergoing chemo, let alone dealing with the stress and worry. But now that it’s behind you, you’re a wreck. Logic tells me it should be the other way around.”
    Hunt frowned. “There’re those people who can’t cope with the prospect of death. For me, it’s the prospect of living that’s got me stymied.”
    â€œWell, just get out there and join the human race. If I can do it, you can! I mean, we all know how hopeless I am when it comes to remembering names and making polite small talk.”
    â€œLet alone impolite small talk.”
    Ben pointed at his friend. “See! You’re witty even when you’re not trying! My God, you could practically charm a doorknob!”
    â€œAnd don’t think I haven’t.”
    â€œSo think how many more doorknobs are out there awaiting your unique talents.” Ben noticed the dog in his peripheral vision. “Besides, if what I’m saying doesn’t convince you, I’m pretty sure Fred here will.” He nodded in Fred’s direction. “Don’t look now, but I think you’llfind there’s something shiny hanging out the side of his mouth, something finlike.”
    Hunt rushed over to the reflecting pool. “Holy crap, Fred!” He slapped the pamphlet he was still holding against his pants to get the dog’s attention. “That’s one of Mother’s prized koi. She’s going to kill you.” Fred bit down proudly. There was a noticeable crunch.
    â€œYour mother would never kill an animal. She’s on the board of the Grantham animal shelter. I know because she hit me up for a large donation,” Ben said.
    Hunt rubbed his mouth. “You’re right. Fred, I think you’re going to live.” He turned slowly back to Ben. “Do you think Mother would hit a recent cancer victim?”
    Ben crossed his arms, looking very pleased, indeed. “With gusto. During her visit she was telling me how much she enjoyed the class on weight lifting to prevent osteoporosis.”
    Hunt took off his baseball cap, and ran his hand through the thin strands. “Then the only way to get out of this…” He reluctantly looked down at the Adult School listing.
    â€œExactly.”
    Hunt raised his eyes. “And I suppose she already has a course in mind?”
    Ben scoffed. “You doubted that for a second?”
    â€œTell me it’s a large lecture where I can hide in the back of the room,” Hunt implored.
    â€œI could tell you that, but…”
    Hunt closed his eyes. “Okay, tell me the truth. I’m man enough to take it.”
    â€œIt’s a water aerobics class. Here, give me back the course listing, and I’ll read you the details.”
    â€œWater aerobics?” Hunt grimaced and held out the pamphlet.
    Ben flipped the pages. “Here it is. ‘Light Water Aerobics. This six-week class is designed for pregnant women, older citizens and those recovering from injuries, or those wanting a lighter, low-impact workout. Meets Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., Grantham Middle School Swimming Pool.’” Ben closed the booklet. “See, it sounds perfect.”
    Hunt frowned. “If it’s so perfect, why don’t you sign up for it?”
    â€œBecause I’m not pregnant, old—”
    Hunt snorted.
    â€œExcuse me, thirty-eight is not old. Nor am I recovering from an injury. Besides, I know from Katarina’s experience that her knee rehabbed really well in the water. I mean, what have you got to lose?”
    Hunt rubbed his lips again. They were perennially chapped despite a constant application of lip balm. “I don’t know. My dignity? Besides, six weeks? That’s kind of a long commitment.”
    â€œI’ve got news for you. Getting a dog isn’t exactly a