Promises of Mercy(Montana Promises-Book 1) Read Online Free Page A

assumption, other than how she avoided his direct eye contact and was constantly fiddling with her uniform as if she believed he was judging her. Because he’d wanted to understand who he’d be dealing with, Stone had asked a friend of hers if she was dating anyone or had family nearby for a support system. The nurse said she didn’t.
    They found a table toward the back of the cafeteria where the noise wasn’t as loud. As soon as they sat, Amber picked up her fork then set it down. Her stomach was probably churning , and he really wanted to put her at ease.
    “Tell me about Chris.”
    She looked at him, but it was almost as if she didn’t see him. “What do you mean? He’s paralyzed.”
    That was not what he’d meant. “Tell me what he was like, what he did for a living, what he enjoyed doing for fun. Stuff like that.”
    She sighed and the tiniest smile crossed her lips. “Chris is a dreamer. He hated school probably because our older brother was a superstar. Not that Thomas was around much since he was fifteen years older than Chris, but Mom bragged about him all the time.” She looked down at her food and stabbed a piece of fruit. “In her eyes, Thomas could do no wrong. My mom is a cardiac surgeon and pushed her first offspring to be a doctor. When I came along, I wanted to be a doctor, too, but it wasn’t to be.”
    Now he felt like a shit for asking. Dredging up bad memories hadn’t been his goal. “So was Chris more into athletics? Or was he an expert at video games?” He figured that covered the gamut of what kids did who didn’t like school.
    “He was a daredevil. A real adrenaline junkie.” Her lips quivered, and he had to urge to clasp her hand to give her comfort—but he didn’t.
    “So Chris lived life to the fullest.”
    She finally made direct eye contact. “Yeah, he did.”
    Stone leaned forward. “What were his goals?” None of which might ever be realized now.
    She shook her head. “I’m not sure. If I had to guess, I’d say it was to have a good time.” Her lips pressed together, and she looked up at the ceiling again as if she’d find her composure there. “When he came to live with me, I insisted he take at least one night school class and get a job, so he worked as a garage mechanic. He’s really talented.”
    “I’m glad he found something he excelled at.” He scarfed down part of his meal while he thought about her answers. “Were you and Chris always close?”
    “Surprisingly, yes, even though we were opposites. I was always studying and figured when I was done with school, I’d have plenty of time to travel and enjoy myself.” She sipped her tea.
    “How’s that plan working out?” He tried to keep his voice light.
    A small chuckle escaped. “When I find the time to do the things I want, I’ll let you know.”
    “I hear ya. I always dreamed of seeing the world, too. Finding the time and money seem to be my stopping points.”
    “Amen.”
    It was cool they had the same vision in life. “The ER doc said you’re an oncology nurse.” He wanted to hear about her passion.
    “Yes.”
    “Why oncology?” He wasn’t sure he could handle the depression day in and day out.
    “It’s where I believe I can help the most.” She returned to her food for a moment before continuing. “When I see how quickly the doctors have to meet with so many patients, I’m glad I chose nursing where I can spend time with each person.” A spark filled her eyes.
    “What’s the best part of your job?”
    “That’s easy. Seeing my patients’ courage. I’ve never met more upbeat and wonderful people in my life.” She inhaled, and then exhaled deeply. “Don’t get me wrong, I do have many sad cases, but when some go home and live a full life, I’m so happy for them.”
    “It seems as if you really love what you do.”
    Her face softened, and she looked beautiful at that moment. “Yes.” She sighed. “But now I’m not sure how I’m going to take care of Chris