I pulled out of her, both of us collapsing on her office sofa, catching our breath as my hands instantly found their way to her hips.
“You are amazing,” I whispered into her ear, my voice trembling with the weight of my emotions.
“And you…” Her eyes locked onto mine with a sincerity that took my breath away. “... are everything.”
Her words reassured me that I was where I belonged. The warmth of her breath and soft kiss on my ear made me feel both close to her and at peace, reminding me of the strong connection we had.
“Let me make one thing clear,” I said, my heart pounding in my chest, “I’m yours, Nina.”
Her soft giggle brushed my ear. “You were always mine,” she said, eyes sparkling with affection. “I’m yours, too.”
Her words filled me with warmth, a promise that made my heart swell. As our lips met again, I savored the sweetness of everything we shared. I wanted to stay lost in this moment forever, completely entwined with her.
I stood, lifting her. “Let’s get you cleaned up, baby.”
“Let’s stay here,” she whispered. “I’m at peace.”
“Peace?”
“Tu sei la mia pace, Ronan.88”
Chapter Forty-eight
RONAN
Present Day
ITALY
“Are you sure you want to come?” I asked Nina, gently tracing her cheek as I admired her still-bleary but radiant face.
After our unforgettable night together, she joined me at my hotel, and waking up beside her was blissful. Her beauty, framed by tousled curls and bathed in the morning light, felt like a dream come true.
I was dressed in a crisp shirt, white coat, and tailored pants, ready for the day ahead.
Her eyes sparkled as she smiled playfully. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I want to see you all doctor-y today.”
“Let’s go then,” I said, taking her hand as we left the room.
“So you have a hospital here?” she asked as we stepped into the hallway.
I shook my head. “No.”
She frowned slightly. “So how are you going to see a patient?”
“Doctors have the option to consult on cases outside their primary hospitals,” I explained. “When a situation is complex or requires a specific specialty, other physicians can be called in. Patients can also request a particular doctor if they feel that doctor’s expertise fits their case.”
She tilted her head. “So this patient asked for you?”
“Yes.” I pressed the elevator button. “She wrote to me after her doctors recommended getting another opinion. I reviewed her medical records, spoke with her primary team, and we discussed the risks and possible approaches. Once they were comfortable with my involvement, they invited me to come in.”
“And today?”
“Months ago, I examined her, ran my own assessments, and saw whether my initial thoughts still hold up.” I glanced at her and smiled. “Sometimes a fresh set of eyes makes all the difference.”
“And today?”
“Progress report check basically.”
