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“She’s got hyperemesis gravidarum. They have her on IV fluids for nutrition support and antiemetics,” said Steven.
“Really? You’re pregnant? How far along?”
“We’re not sure. Maybe ten weeks,” said Anne.
“She was interviewed about it on the news last week,” said Emily.
He shook his head. “I never get to watch television. Saturday was the first day I’ve had off in weeks. I was supposed to be off today, but I got called in.”
He turned back to Anne. “Wow, you’re really thin. I’ve studied about this, but I’ve never seen a real case. It’s pretty rare. Well, except some of them go undiagnosed. Do you have a severe case? Have they talked to you about TPN?”
“We’r
e hoping to avoid it—so many complications. But I need to eat so I can gain some weight.”
“I’ll be glad to put in a new needle for you. Do you want it in the same place on the other arm? Or some place different?” He opened up the sterile IV kit they handed him.
“Yes, please. On the other arm. I really appreciate this, Josh.”
“My pleasure,” he said, as he quickly inserted the IV needle. “Just a pinch. How’s that?” He taped the new port in place and took off his gloves. “I’m hoping to ingratiate myself with your whole family,” he said with a conspiratorial grin.
“Thank you, Josh,” said Steven. “If there’s anything I can ever do to help you, let me know.”
“I will. Do you need help starting a new fluid bag?”
“No, we’ve got it down,” said Anne, as she and Steven headed toward the bedroom.
Emily felt her palms sweating when her parents left them alone together. He really made her nervous. Time to give him the boot. “Okay… Thanks for dropping by.”
He sat down on the couch next to her. “Can I drop by another time? I’d like to see you again.”
Her stomach turned a somersault. “You would?”
“Yes, I would. I don’t have a lot of spare time right now because of the residency program, but I’d like to spend it with you.”
“Why? I told you I had a boyfriend.”
“Well, that’s not exactly what you said, but I’ll let it pass. Let me explain. When I see something really great, something I want, I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get it. I’m not the type of man who gives up if it’s not easy. I’m willing to work at it and wait a long time if I have to. I’m in no hurry. I sense you and Spencer are on unsure footing here. I don’t think he’s the right man for you. If and when you change your mind, I’ll be right here waiting to prove to you I’m the right guy.”
The smile never left his face as he stood. After a moment she thought to close her mouth.
“No pressure. Just think about it.” He walked to the door to let himself out. “I’ll see you later.” Before she could protest his promise, he slipped through the door, and clicked it shut behind him.
*****
Spencer checked the time again as he paced in the lobby of the Gherring’s apartment building. It wasn’t even eight o’clock yet. He didn’t want to go upstairs too early, but he didn’t think he could wait much longer. He’d hardly slept the night before. He realized Charlie was right. He no longer felt any anger about Asher Denning. He was only aware of the fear and agony he’d felt when he’d almost lost her. Twice. He knew he was in love with her. Both times he would gladly have given his life to save hers. He had to let her know how he felt, but he couldn’t say words like “love” too soon. He had to be careful. She liked to be in control, and he didn’t want to scare her away.
The elevator doors opened, and he felt instant rage at the sight of the man exiting. “What are you doing here, Josh?” He ground the words out between his teeth.
“Hello, Spencer. How are you?” Josh smiled, his voice filled with unequivocal delight. “I was simply taking care of my patients. I don’t usually make house calls. But in special cases I’m willing to make an exception.” He waggled his eyebrows. “And this is definitely a special case.”
Spencer felt a clear understanding of the term justifiable homicide. “Get out!”
“I’m leaving, but only because I have to go to work. Certainly not because you think you commanded it. Have a good day.”
Spencer watched him exit through the lobby door, breathing deeply to calm himself. It was obviously not too early to see the Gherrings. So he punched in the code that allowed him to take the elevator up to the penthouse and knocked on the door, pacing nervously until it opened.
“Hi, Spencer,” said Gherring. “This time it really is you. A little earlier—“
