PART 5

Roy was back in chemo. Unfortunately, Roy in chemo meant Roy being an ass. Donna and I tried to ignore it. He was fighting for his life. I could live without social niceties for a few weeks.

We narrowed down our hospital suspects to a handful. Now we were figuring the best way to approach them.

"I could go in as a nurse." Donna offered.

"Where would you get a uniform at this time of night?"

"She has one at my place." smirked Roy.

"Why would she--?"

Donna blushed. Roy cracked up laughing. It was a harsh sound. I tried to salvage the situation. Tried to be professional.

"Of course, you were undercover."

"Under the covers more like it." Roy winked. "Right, babe?"

Donna picked up the pizza box and headed to the kitchen, ignoring him. I glared at Roy. He glared back. I knew he hated Donna's mothering. Hated having to rely on her to take care of him and Lian even temporarily. I half suspected he hoped she would kick them out so he would have an excuse to quit chemo.

"Daddy?"

Lian stood in the doorway hugging one of her stuffed Power Ponies. All of the anger drained out of Roy. It was like his daughter flipped an internal switch that turned him from jackass to responsible parent in a heartbeat. It was a welcome change.

"Let's get you back to bed, princess."

Lian lifted her arms to be picked up.

"Wanna Power Pony ride!"

Roy's shoulders sagged. No way he was able to carry her much less do a "cosmic gallop" through the apartment.

Donna to the rescue. She flew in low, scooped Lian up in her arms, then arced upwards towards the cathedral ceiling. Lian shrieked in delight.

I watched Roy watch Donna. The look on his face said it all. He loved her.