Page 168 of The Doctors Will See You Now

I wanted to stay wrapped up in this moment forever.

And as I looked across the dance floor to find Tanner and Linda wrapped up in one another’s arms as they slowly swayed to the music, I found myself wondering what it would be like to be in a loving and committed relationship like theirs. Not the kind of relationship I’d had with my ex, but one where there was a solid foundation of trust, mutual respect, and admiration. The kind of relationship that stood the test of time, both people willingly and happily sacrificing silly personal wants for another.

I think I want an amazing relationship like that…

Oh my God, had I really just thought that?

I’d made a promise to myself a long time ago that I’d never get into another long-term relationship. I’d attempted that once in my life, and I’d found out that I was better off on my own, doing my own thing, and only relying on myself. My last—and final—long-term relationship taught me one thing: Never trust anyone too much. For myself, for my happiness, I had to stay strong in that mind-set…right?

Christ, until now, I’d been absolutely certain singledom was what I wanted.

Until now.

God, what was happening to me?

My chest grew tight with the initial sensations of panic. This moment on this dance floor was now officially emotional overload, and I wasn’t equipped enough to understand all of these foreign things I was feeling.

I have to get the fuck out of here.

I didn’t know what was happening to me, but I knew I didn’t like the direction of my brain’s thoughts. I needed to get somewhere safe—preferably, not inside of Scott’s arms—and find a moment of peace from this fucked-up emotional roller coaster I’d managed to hop on.

As the last notes of the too romantic song filtered into the room, the urge to push up onto my toes, meld my breasts to Scott’s chest, and touch my lips to the perfect pink of his became consuming.

Instantly, I released my hold on his shoulders and put some much-needed distance between us. Before I could second-guess myself, and without any warning or words to explain my sudden mood change, I turned away from Scott and moved off the dance floor as quickly as my stilettos would let me.

I had no idea where I was headed or what excuses I’d give my father, but every cell in my body was telling me to just get the fuck out of that party as soon as physically possible.

I grabbed my purse and jacket from our table and walked over toward my dad—who was currently charming the pants off of Nicole—to say my goodbyes. I made a mental note that since it was Saturday night, a simple excuse of meeting friends for drinks wasn’t too risky an explanation for my sudden departure.

Bill’s smile was warm as I approached, but the ends of his mouth turned down slightly once he noted the purse and jacket in my hands.

“Are you leaving?”

“Yeah. I’m supposed to meet some friends for drinks,” I lied and hugged him tight. “Be careful getting home, Daddy,” I said and kissed his cheek.

Luckily, Nicole squeezed his shoulder, pulling his gaze from mine to hers and completely distracting him from questioning me further.

“You too, sweetheart,” he said with an easy smile.

I smiled at Nicole. “Thank you so much for tonight. I had an amazing time.”

“Thanks for coming.” She pulled me into a quick embrace. “And call me if you ever need some juicy gossip about my son,” she whispered teasingly into my ear. I could literally hear the smile in her voice.

Man, I loved a mother who doubled as a ballbuster.

I laughed. “An inside source?”

She nodded and winked. “I’m hoping one day he’ll learn that he shouldn’t waste his time with women who are only after one thing.”

I quirked a brow in confusion.

Sex? Surely, they’re after sex.

“Money,” she answered helpfully.

Oh. Money.

“Ah,” I responded with an understanding nod. “The illustrious gold diggers.”