Chapter 13

Millie had not seen Abbey since the trial.

When she heard about the attack on the news, she came to Manchester, in hope of seeing her best friend.

She got permission and quietly entered Abbey's room. Millie gasped when she saw her best friend's condition.

Prison had taken the former First Lady and chewed her up. And it had only been six months.

"Abbey, are you awake?"

Abbey's head turned toward the voice. "Oh, Millie! I'm so glad to see you."

Millie grabbed Abbey's rough and chafed hand and gave her a kiss.

"How have you been?" Millie could see how it had been, but she wanted to give Abbey a chance to talk.

"Okay, I guess. Prison isn't easy."

Millie almost replied 'I can see that.' But didn't.

Instead she replied, "How are you doing?"

"Millie, I said I was fine. How are you? Did the board pull your medical license?"

"Yeah, about three months ago. I'm consulting with a pharmaceutical company in Boston. But when I heard what happened, I just had to come see you."

Millie and Abbey spoke for a few more minutes before Abbey started to show exhaustion, even at this brief visit.

"Okay, Abbey. I'll try and write to you."

"Thanks. I need to hear from you. I really do."

"I'll write. I promise."

Millie leaned over and gave Abbey a quick kiss on the forehead. She hoped her eyes would not convey the worry she felt.

"Bye, Abbey."

"Bye. And thanks for coming."

With that, Millie left the room.

She ran into Liz, who was just returning to her mother's side.

"Hi. Your Mom looks terrible. How much weight has she lost?"

'I don't know. She won't tell me. Just tries to change the subject."

"Okay, Liz. Keep in touch. If you need me, give me a call. I may not be a practicing physician, but I still have contacts."

Liz hugged her. "Thanks, Aunt Millie. You're a true friend."