Page 163 of Love Unspoken

Lucas had become more open about his conversations with his family. He told me he'd had a showdown with Shelby and Flynn and several with Kath's father and his mother. His only saving grace was Rena, who was steadfast in wanting her grandson to make choices that were, as she put it, selfish and more power to him for doing that.

Working together had been interesting. We were excellent partners, sparred well, were respectful of each other, and wanted, very badly, to get into each other's pants.

"Good luck," Lucas whispered as I prepared to run a focus group. His eyes twinkled, and I could tell he wanted to kiss me, but we had an audience.

Dr. Brooks, Jill, Maury, and one of my teaching assistants were in the adjacent room—one of those sterile, windowless spaces typical of research facilities with a two-way mirror for observing the proceedings.

I entered the focus group room, where six doctors sat around a large oval table, each representing a different hospital or clinic across South Carolina. The group included obstetricians, family physicians, and maternal health specialists, all invited to share their experiences and challenges in communicating with pregnant women, particularly those from marginalized communities.

"Thank you all for being here today," I began, aiming to create a comfortable and safe space for discussion. "We're here to talk about the challenges in health communication, specifically in maternal care. Let's dive right in—what are the most significant barriers you face with your patients?"

Dr. Martinez, an obstetrician from a rural clinic, spoke up first. "Health literacy is a major issue. Many patients don't fully understand medical terminology, leading to confusion about their care plans. They're often afraid to ask questions, fearing they'll seem ignorant, which only worsens the problem."

Dr. Flynn, a family physician from Charleston, nodded. "Cultural barriers are also challenging. In some communities, deeply ingrained beliefs about pregnancy and childbirth conflict with modern medical practices."

Dr. Nguyen, a maternal health specialist from Chapel Hill, added, "Building trust is another hurdle. Many women, especially from underserved communities, have had negative experiences with the healthcare system."

I nodded, absorbing their insights. These were precisely the kinds of challenges we needed to address in our project—how to bridge the gap between medical professionals and the women who needed their care the most.

"This is all incredibly valuable feedback." I made notes as I spoke. "It sounds like we need to focus not just on simplifying language but also on developing culturally sensitive communication strategies and building trust within these communities. Are there specific approaches any of you have found helpful in overcoming these barriers?"

The doctors exchanged ideas, discussing strategies like using visual aids, involving community leaders in health education, and spending more time in consultations to build rapport.

After about an hour, the session wrapped up, and I thanked the participants for their time and input. As they filed out, I gathered my notes and went into the adjoining observation room. My eyes landed on Lucas, and for a moment, the professional mask I'd been wearing slipped. I felt a flutter of emotions, which I recognized as butterflies in my stomach.

"Amara, that was excellent. You handled the discussion with such ease. We got some really valuable insights," Jill exclaimed.

"Great work," Dr. Brooks interjected sincerely.

"Thank you," I replied, still aware of Lucas's presence, even as I focused on Dr. Brooks. "The doctors were really open about their challenges. I think we have a lot to work with."

Jill nodded enthusiastically. "You did a fantastic job guiding the conversation."

I smiled, but before I could respond, Lucas stepped forward. "Amara, that was impressive. You have a way of getting people to open up to talk about the real issues. It's not something everyone can do."

His compliment made me blush and my heart did that ridiculous fluttering thing again. "Thanks, Lucas."

He nodded, his eyes holding mine for a beat longer than necessary. I had to tell him to stop looking at me like he wanted to devour me. Probably everyone could see how we were eye-fucking each other.

"We should reconvene Monday to go over the next steps," Dr. Brooks suggested, glancing between us. "There's a lot to unpack from today's session."

"Agreed." I faced her, grateful for the distraction. "I'll go through my notes tonight and have a report out ready for our next meeting."

After a few more pleasantries, Jill and Dr. Brooks left, as did my TA, leaving me alone with Lucas in the dimly lit observation room.

"Stop it," I murmured.

"You were amazing in there. I don't think I've ever been aroused watching a focus group before."

I crossed my arms and leaned back against a wall, trying to seem casual, even though my pulse was racing. "How aroused?" I challenged.

He came up to me and stood close enough so I could smell his cologne. It was naughty to flirt like this at work, and my panties were soaked.

"Hard as a stone." He took my hand and put it on his erection.

I whimpered, feeling his desire.

"Lucas."