I spent two weeks in the hospital after surgery, and my husband never visited me once. He answered my texts but never explained why he stayed away. By the time I came home, I was ready for the worst.

Then I opened the front door and froze.

Rowan and I have been married for twenty years. Long enough to finish each other’s sentences and survive more hard times than I can count.

That’s why what happened made absolutely no sense.

A few weeks ago, severe stomach pain left me doubled over in agony. After urgent tests, doctors found a serious problem requiring immediate surgery.

The days leading up to it were terrifying, but Rowan never left my side.

The morning of the operation, my hands shook violently while he sat on the edge of my bed, holding my fingers.

“I’m terrified, Ro,” I whispered.

“You are the strongest woman I know,” he said softly.

“I am not going anywhere.”

Nurse Clara walked in with a warm smile. “Dr. Evans is the best surgeon we have, Beverly.”

“Will someone come get me as soon as she’s out?” Rowan asked, his tone tight.

“The moment she’s safely in recovery,” Clara promised.