Page 35 of The Love Operation

Chapter 8

Five Minutes

“Is that the COO?” Delenn asks.

“Isaac,” I say flatly.

I turn to tell Delenn not to leave me alone with him, but it’s too late. He’s already closed the gap, and even though my mind has the clarity that comes with “the procedure,” I’m still borderline loopy.

“Hello, ladies,” Isaac says.

“You’re here awfully late,” I say through clenched teeth.

Delenn turns, giving me an odd look.

Isaac’s half smile is unperturbed. “You said you’d be staying late, and I was hoping you could spare that five minutes.”

“You won’t take no for an answer, will you?”

He startles, like he’s just now realizing how this might look.

His jaw tightens, a flush creeping up his neck.

It’s irresistible.

“I’m sorry—I had work to finish, so I thought . . .” He trails off, shoving his hands into his pockets.

Mr. Fancy COO didn’t think this through. He clearly didn’t anticipate looking so foolish.

Delenn’s gaze darts between us, eyebrows creeping upward, likely picking up on something I’m not ready to acknowledge.

“Ummm,” she starts, but Isaac cuts her off, seemingly desperate to stop this train wreck before it derails completely.

“How’s the research going, Dr. Lochley?” Isaac asks.

That dispels some of the awkward.

“It’s going very well. I can’t wait to share the results at our first internal presentation.”

“Let’s hope we can get that Pioneer Award. It would be a real win for this hospital.” His smile is genuine.

“That’s the goal,” she says. “The Pioneer or potentially a few others.”

“All the awards, fellowships, and grants. Delenn is a genius,” I say. “I have no doubts.”

“You both are. You’re both a credit to this hospital.”

A few beats of silence echo down the hall, then Isaac clears his throat and steps back. “I should go. Have a good evening, ladies.”

He nods, then turns to leave, and panic rises inside me. I don’t know if it’s sweet that he waited or if I’m a fool. But I can’t leave it like this.

“Delenn, go ahead without me,” I say, watching Isaac’s retreating form. “I do need to talk to him.”

“Are you sure?” she asks. “It’s late, and—what’s going on between you two? I’m getting vibes.”

“I’m positive you should go. I’ll explain later.” My tone ends the discussion. I don’t even look at her as I move toward him. “Isaac!”

Thankfully, he turns.