Page 119 of Love Overdose: St. Louis

Now someone did.

“I don’t want you changing your career for me.”

“The hospital has qualified neurosurgeons. The clinic has physicians who can treat patients without me standing over them. I’m still working. I’m still taking calls. I’m still available when a patient needs me.” His hand covered mine beneath the quilt. “I’m no longer volunteering as much. I’m needed elsewhere.”

My throat tightened.

“Did something happen?”

“Yes.”

“What?”

“You.” My fingers curled around his. “And Malik,” he added. “I built my schedule around the life I had. That life changed.”

“Elijah…”

“I told you I wouldn’t let your understanding become an excuse to neglect you.”

I remembered the morning in his bed. I had believed him then, but belief was easy when it only required words.

“Does the hospital know why?” I asked.

“They know I requested a sustainable rotation.”

“That sounds very professional.”

“It was a professional conversation.”

“You didn’t tell them you needed more time to watch Spider-Man?”

“I assumed they would understand.”

A smile rose before I could stop it. His thumb passed over my knuckles.

“Carter is an excellent surgeon. So is Patel. My patients will be cared for when I’m unavailable.”

“And you’re comfortable with that?”

“I’m becoming comfortable with it.”

His phone remained untouched beside the bed.

“Who are you?”

“Elijah Valentine.”

“Are you certain?”

“Come closer and verify.”

There was no challenge in his voice—only warmth. I moved into his arms.

His body was cool from the shower. I rested my cheek against his chest and listened to his heartbeat beneath my ear. His hand traveled along my bare back before settling against my waist.

“What if I sweat on you again?” I asked.

“Then I’ll shower again.”