Smiling, he stepped into the spacious entryway and wrapped his arms around her. She smelled like vanilla and flowers—the same scent she’d been wearing for as long as he could remember. “It’s good to see you.”
“And you.” She kissed his cheek as she eased back. “You know you’re always welcome.”
“I appreciate it.”
She closed the door. “Have you seen Brad?”
“We were supposed to grab a bite to eat over at Cheers but he got stuck in the ER.”
She frowned. “That’s a shame.”
Nate shrugged. “I figure his patients get priority. We’ll catch up next week—stuff our faces with Mini’s turkey and Molly’s pumpkin pie.”
“And boy, won’t you.” She smiled, standing hipshot. Lily was pretty and petite, but she was also a firecracker. “How’s that beautiful girlfriend of yours?”
He couldn’t help but smile as he thought of Callie. “She’s great.”
Lily grinned. “Someone’s been bitten by the love bug.”
He chuckled. “Is that what happened?”
Lily laughed. “Nathan, you’ve always been a charmer.”
“Thanks.”
She winked. “Can I get you something to drink—maybe a snack?”
“Nah, but I appreciate it. I was hoping I might be able to talk to Evan before I head for the ferry.”
“Oh, honey, Evan’s still under the weather. I don’t know what that man caught but I’m really starting to worry.”
Nate frowned. “I don’t like hearing that.”
“We had another appointment yesterday. The doctors took some blood. We’re waiting on results, but maybe seeing you will be just what he needs.”
“I promise I’ll keep it quick.”
“Come on and follow me. I’ll take you upstairs,” she said, leading him down a long hallway in the Sandersons’ gorgeous upscale home.
Nate paused as they started up the steps, staring at the full moon in Callie’s forest dreamscape hanging on the wall in the spacious landing.
“Well, what do you think?” Lily asked, all but gushing.
“I think it looks pretty familiar.”
She laughed. “I had to have it. It’s so different from her other work. As soon as I saw it Saturday night, I called Evan. You know that man can’t say no to me.”
“It looks great. I’ll have to tell Callie.”
“Make sure you tell her how much I love it.”
“I will.”
“Come on.” They walked down another long hall, eventually stopping at one of the doors. Lily gave a gentle knock. “Evan, I’ve got a surprise visitor.”
Nate stepped in behind Lily, studying Evan as he sat by the window with his computer on his lap, his face pale and drawn.
Evan smiled but his eyes were dull. “Nate.”