---- Chapter 8 The Past That didn't deter him at all. With concern, he asked, "Is it serious, Eve?" I forced a smile. "I guess." That was a dumb question, and he realized it as well. Anthony changed the subject. ''So, how's Old Mr. Riverson? I love his cooking." The mention of my grandfather turned on the waterworks, and my tears just wouldn't stop coming. Panicked, he quickly pulled out a wad of tissue and wiped my tears away, forgetting that he should be more neutral. "What happened? Was it something I said?" It took a while before the tears stopped coming. I was still sobbing, but I answered, "Sorry you had to see that. My grandfather... Well, he's... gone." Anthony's hand stopped moving, and he apologized, "I'm sorry. I had no idea. My ---- condolences." "It's okay." I sniffled, and my eyes were red. "I need to go home." Anthony took his coat off. "Where do you live? I'll send you home." "No other patients for the day?" He pointed at his watch in resignation, emphasizing, "It's already six. My shift's over." Anthony walked me home, and it felt surreal to me. He watched as I dumbly walked into my home. Just when I was about to close the door, he put his hand against it. He arched an eyebrow and joked, " Not going to invite me inside? We have a lot to catch up on." "Oh, yeah, right." I snapped out of it and invited him inside. He scanned the house. It was big, but there wasn't any furniture. Once again, he joked, "Minimalism. ---- is your new motto now?" I looked around the house as well. Realization hit me. I hadn't gotten any furniture since I moved in. I couldn't even serve drinks to my guests, much less tea. I laughed sheepishly and whispered, "I just moved in, so..." Anthony had a look that said, 'Ah, say no more.' He grabbed my purse from the back of the chair." Let's go." Thad no idea what he was trying to do. "Where to? " Anthony came closer to me. Gingerly, he touched me with a finger. I didn't react as strongly as I did back at the hospital, so he boldly held my hand. " Getting some furniture. You need to get some fresh air if you want to get better. "Don't worry, I'll speak for you. Just stay with me, okay? We're in no hurry."