“But there could be.” Tricia sank next to her and then bumped her shoulder.
“Maybe. But this has not been a normal twenty-four hours.”
“Sure, but you’ve interacted before.”
“From a distance at barbecues and other group gatherings. Not the kind of things that gave me any indication that he thought of me at all.”
“I’ve seen how he watched you. You’ve been on his radar.”
Bridget’s jaw dropped at the thought. “No way. He’s never said or done anything.”
“Why would he? You’ve never been open to a relationship. In fact, you’ve been actively against it.” Tricia was gentle yet firm. “He’s not the type of guy to go where he’s not wanted. He’ll show up and help anyone. But he’ll only give his heart to a woman who’s willing to do the same.”
“Wow, you’ve really thought about this.”
“He’s been in our group a while. I think he’s a great guy.”
“But not as great as Noah.”
Tricia’s grin took on a sappy quality. “No one is as great as Noah.”
A nurse came to get Bridget. “Dr. Lyons needs to talk to you.”
Tricia stood. “I’ll let you get back to taking care of your charge.”
“Thank you for bringing the clothes and for the perspective.”
“Anytime.” Tricia gave her a hug and then headed to the elevator, while Bridget followed the nurse back into the ICU.
When Toddfinally pulled back into town, he met Caleb at the bar. “Please tell me that Doris said the busboy is here.”
Caleb pulled the door open. “Can’t tell you that. Haven’t been in yet.”
“Did Dani at least get the paperwork from the court?”
“I don’t know.” Caleb followed him into the dim interior of the restaurant. “She’s gone radio silent. I’m concerned because she needed to go pick up Brianna.”
“Don’t worry. I’m sure she did that.” There’s no way she would forget her infant.
“I’ll call her again after this. She’s got to be emotionally empty.” Caleb ran his fingers through his hair and then straightened. “Let’s do this.”
The hostess pointed them straight to the bar. “Doris said to send you on back.”
Todd nodded his thanks. “We’ll keep it quick.” His stomach growled.
She shook her head. “Another day you didn’t eat? I’ll have sandwiches ready for you.”
“Appreciate it.” Todd hooked a thumb at Caleb. “He’ll have what I get, too.”
“On it.”
Caleb strode past him to the bar, where Doris stood wiping it down with a cloth. For a Friday night, it was quiet.
Caleb took a seat on one of the stools. “Where is everyone?”
“They heard you were coming and decided to wait.” She poured two Cokes and slid them toward them. “I’ll have Travis come out.” She pointed at Todd. “Be nice. The kid is skittish, but willing to talk.”
He raised his hands. “Best behavior. Promise.”
