Page 80 of Love Overdose: St. Louis

Pride warmed my chest. “Thank you.”

He walked toward a framed photograph from my first full class. I stood at the center of a much smaller room, surrounded by twelve smiling women.

“How long have you had the studio?”

“Six years. Before this, I rented rooms from gyms and community centers.”

“And now you fill your own.”

“Most days.”

He looked at me. “You’re good at what you do.”

I joined him near the photograph.

“Thank you. How is your patient?”

“Improving. He responded well overnight and recognized his wife this morning.”

“That’s good.”

“It is.”

“And you? Did you ever eat?”

“Yes.”

“What?”

“A sandwich from the physicians’ lounge.”

My face tightened. “After sending us salmon and enough sides to cater a wedding?”

“I was occupied.”

“You could’ve ordered yourself something.”

“I didn’t know when I would be free to eat it.”

I shook my head. “Next time, include yourself in the order.”

His fingers found mine. “Yes ma’am.”

My smile returned.

“My mother has Malik,” I said. His thumb moved over my hand. “She’s expecting me after lunch.”

“I can take you there.”

My heartbeat changed. Taking me there would bring him to my mother’s house. To Malik. Elijah studied my face without pressing for an explanation. I wasn’t sure what forever looked like just yet. But I was sure I wanted to see Elijah and Malik in the same room.

“You said you’d like to meet him,” I said.

“I would.”

I drew in a slow breath.

“Okay. Then yes, I’d like you to take me there after lunch.”