AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Maybe you should—”
She threw a palm up in his face, her muscles quivering with anger. “Stop. I have an important day ahead of me, and you’ve already managed to spike my blood pressure twenty points. You’ve come and had your say. Now I want you to go so I can enjoy one stinking cup of coffee before I get on with my day.”
He had the grace to look sheepish. “I realize the timing could’ve been better. But I’m leaving for the day, and I felt you needed to—right. Never mind. I’ll go now.”
“Good idea.”
He turned halfway down the staircase. “I hope everything goes well with the new doctor.”
“Thanks,” she gritted out.
Then he trotted down the remaining steps and was gone.
***
Wes put the soggy ice pack into the freezer and checked the time for the umpteenth time today. Avery had left a while ago to take Dr.Chan back to the airport. Through the kitchen window he could see twilight was settling over the valley. The last light of the day cast a golden glow over the carriage house.
It was safe for him to go back there now, but Avery had madehim promise to wait for her. Getting around was still difficult, and she didn’t want him taking a tumble. But it was getting late, and he was curious to know how things had gone with Dr. Chan. Avery had only checked in with him via text to see if he needed anything.
He hobbled slowly back to the bedroom, breath held against the spasms. He could walk without stooping over now, but his back was still stiff. He’d just reached the bed when the apartment door clicked open.
Avery was home. At least he hoped it was her and not Cooper again—or her other brother for that matter. But the quick, light footsteps gave her away.
She appeared in the doorway, dressed casually in jeans and a purple top. Her mahogany hair was down around her shoulders. In short, she was beautiful.
“Hey there.” She rushed over and helped him ease onto the mattress. “You’re still hurting quite a lot.”
“Much better than yesterday.” A slight exaggeration. “Boredom has been the worst symptom. But by the look on your face, things went well with Dr.Chan.”
Avery’s eyes lit up. “Exceptionally well. I think she liked what she saw, and she was great with the patients today. Hallelujah! Keep praying though. She’s heading directly to Ohio to check out the other job offer.”
“She’d be crazy to turn you down.”
Avery’s hand still rested on his shoulder. “She really did love the apartment—and that’s all because of you. Have I thanked you properly?”
He thought of a few ways she could show her gratitude. He cleared his throat. “My pleasure, Doc.”
“Have you been icing your back?”
“Yes, ma’am. I’m following doctor’s orders to a tee. In fact, if you could help me down the steps, I can give you back your bedroom.”
“You know what? Why don’t you settle in for another night? It’s late, I brought home pizza, and I’d rather not risk the stairs just yet.”
He frowned. “I am not putting you out of your bed again. You need a good night’s sleep.”
She rolled her eyes. “Please. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in weeks.”
“Even more reason to let you have your bed.”
“Being on the couch has nothing to do with my insomnia. You’re not going to ruin my big Saturday night plans, are you? I was hoping to celebrate a successful visit from the esteemed Dr.Chan—and you’re the only one here. You don’t want me celebrating alone, do you? How pathetic would that be?”
All plans of refusal died on his tongue. “Are you sure?”
At his acquiescence she beamed. “Pizza followed by popcorn and a movie? I’ll even let you pick the movie.”
“No rom-coms.” And remembering the other night he added, “And nothing with explosions.”
“You have a deal.”
