The Woman He′s Been Waiting For
The Woman He's Been Waiting For
Jennifer Taylor
Playboy doctor Harry Shaw is rich, successful and extremely handsome. Since his arrival at Ferndale Surgery, he has charmed almost everybody, except GP Grace Kennedy. Grace refuses to be impressed by Harry's charisma and good looksshe has known him too long and too well.But Grace hadn't counted on her heart completely overruling her head. However hard she tries, she cannot stay away from her rogue partner. Working closely together,Grace and Harry finally give in to temptation. Could Grace be the woman to finally capture his heart once and for all?
Were just your average, run-of-the-mill GPs surgery, and I find it very hard to understand why Harry would offer to work here. So you tell me whats in it for Harry?
The pleasure of your company?
Grace spun around when a familiar voice cut into the conversation. She spotted Harry lounging in the doorway. It had been some time since shed seen him, but hed changed very little from what she could tell. As her eyes skimmed over the coal-black hair, the marine-blue eyes, the clean-cut jaw, she couldnt stop the appreciative flutter her nerves gave, a warning that she was as susceptible as any woman to Harry Shaws undeniable charms.
Dear Reader (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801),
Some books demand to be written and others require a little more time for the story to develop. The Woman Hes Been Waiting For falls into the latter category.
I first had the idea for this book three years ago and sat down to write it with great enthusiasm. However, although I loved Harry and Grace from the moment they appeared on the page, I just couldnt make them behave the way I wanted them to. They are both such determined characters that they insisted on doing things their own way! In the end, I abandoned the book, but at the back of my mind I always knew that I would go back to it one day. Im glad that I did because it has turned out to be one of my very favorite stories.
Both Harry and Grace have a lot of baggage left over from their past lives, and they are both afraid to confront the main issue, which is that they are deeply attracted to each other. For years they have traded insults in an attempt to disguise their feelings but when they agree to work together to help a mutual friend, they are finally forced to acknowledge how they feel about one another.
It isnt an easy processthey have an extremely rough ride along the way! However, I felt when I reached the end of the book that they had found the happiness they both deserved.
I hope you enjoy reading their story as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Love,
Jennifer
The Woman Hes Been Waiting For
Jennifer Taylor
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
CONTENTS
Cover (#u5194bb3c-7cb4-5f64-98b9-1eae5a65ca7d)
Dear Reader (#uef26f4c0-263e-57d2-9443-0489412ba5ac)
Title Page (#u995a3fab-668b-5e06-bdcd-d539bf949954)
CHAPTER ONE (#u7033ad08-def0-581d-b67b-6f75415c9276)
CHAPTER TWO (#u304f7700-bb2a-5e62-978d-edcb52f3a19f)
CHAPTER THREE (#ub18f1838-1bb4-5910-8f68-e3d08d7c3380)
CHAPTER FOUR (#ubf398c96-37c7-5139-8316-8ca0866cd17c)
CHAPTER FIVE (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SIX (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER EIGHT (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER NINE (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER TEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER ELEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER TWELVE (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER THIRTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER FOURTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER FIFTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SIXTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER ONE (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
WHAT do you mean Harry Shaw has offered to work here?
Dr Grace Kennedy couldnt conceal her astonishment as she rounded on her partner, Miles Farrington. It was the end of a particularly stressful week at Ferndale Surgery and she and Miles had been trying to come up with a solution to their latest crisis when he had dropped his bombshell. Not only had their locum upped and left on New Years Eve without giving them notice but yesterday their practice nurse had tripped and broken her ankle.
It would be some while before Alison was fit to return to work. In the meantime, they would have to manage without a nurse because they would never be able to find a replacement at this time of the year. There were a lot of reasons, in fact, why Grace was in no mood to play silly games.
The same Harry Shaw who once said that only people without ambition went into general practice? Oh, this has to be a joke, Miles, please.
I dont recall Harry saying that about general practice Miles broke off when Grace glared at him. Harry was probably winding you up. You know what hes like. Anyway, he phoned me last night to say that he was in the area so I invited him round for a drink and just happened to mention the problems we were having during the course of the conversation. I was as surprised as you are when he offered his services, but you have to admit it would be the ideal solution. Oh, I know that you and Harry didnt exactly hit it off at med school
And whose fault was that? Grace paced across the room then swung round and scowled at her partner. Harry Shaw was a complete waste of space, in my opinion. The only thing he was interested in was seeing how many women he could sweet-talk into his bed.
Mmm, he did have rather an effect on the ladies, Miles observed admiringly. He cleared his throat when he saw Graces expression darken. But, all that aside, you have to admit that Harry was one of the brightest students in our year. It was the same during our pre-reg training when we were at Leeds together. It was Harry who was tipped for great things and hes achieved them, too. You must have followed his progress over the years, surely?
Grace ignored the question. She had no intention of admitting that shed been keeping tabs on Harry. To be frank, she wasnt sure why shed bothered when she disliked the wretched man so much. Maybe it had been a way to prove to herself that she didnt care about professional glory and only wanted to do her job to the very best of her ability, but she could have recited Harrys CV from memory: the youngest consultant ever appointed to a post; Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians; member of the new government health service advisory committee
Then why does he want to work here? Grace blanked out the rest of Harrys glittering rsum because it really wasnt relevant. She fixed Miles with a look that made him squirm but she refused to feel guilty. Once Miles got an idea into his head, it was difficult to make him see sense, but there was no way that she was going to agree to his latest proposal.
Just look at the facts, Miles. We run a very busy rural practice here. We dont take private patients and we certainly dont have any VIPs on our list. Were just your average, run-of-the-mill GPs surgery and I find it hard to understand why Harry would offer to work here. So you tell me, whats in it for Harry?
The pleasure of your company?
Grace spun round when a familiar voice cut into the conversation. Her mouth thinned when she spotted Harry lounging in the doorway. It had been some time since shed seen him but hed changed very little from what she could tell. As her eyes skimmed over the coal-black hair, the marine-blue eyes, the clean-cut jaw, she couldnt stop the appreciative flutter her nerves gave, a warning that she was as susceptible as any woman to Harry Shaws undoubted charms. The difference was that she knew what he was really like and she wasnt about to be taken in by good looks and a nice line in chat.
Im flattered, Harry. Or I would be if I was fool enough to believe you. She treated him to a chilly smile which wavered when she saw the expression that crossed his face. Good heavens, surely Harrys feelings hadnt been hurt by that remark.
Harry, good to see you again. I was beginning to wonder if youd got lost. Im hopeless at giving people directions, Im afraid. Miles leapt to his feet and rushed across the room to greet him.
Grace dismissed that fanciful notion when she realised what her partner had said. She looked accusingly at him as he led Harry over to the desk. You never mentioned that youd invited Harry here tonight.
Didnt I? Purely an oversight, I assure you. Miles fussed around, fetching a chair and taking Harrys overcoat. He hung it on the peg behind the door then looked pleadingly at Grace. I know we havent had time to discuss this, but you know as well as I do that we desperately need help. Ive been onto the agency every single day this week about hiring another locum but they simply havent got anyone on their books willing to relocate at this time of the year. Nobody wants to spend the winter months in such a remote part of the country, apparently.
So what youre saying is that its Harry or nothing, Grace said sweetly.
Well, I wouldnt put it quite like that, Miles blustered in embarrassment, although Harry didnt seem the least perturbed by her bluntness.
Why not, if its true? He clapped Miles on the shoulder then smiled at Grace. A bit of a dilemma for you, isnt it? Its a choice between letting me loose on your patients or going under. Id find it very difficult to choose in your shoes, too, Gracie.
Dont call me that. She sat down behind her desk and glared at him. You know how I hate stupid nicknames.
Sorry.
He didnt sound sorry but short of making a fuss and thereby letting him think hed scored a point, there was nothing she could do about it. She smiled up at him, her grey eyes colder than the January sky outside the consulting-room window. Apology accepted. So shall we start from the beginning? Why have you offered to work here when you made it abundantly clear in the past what you thought about general practice?
Because you and Miles need a helping hand.
Harry sat down and crossed one long leg over the other as he waited for her next sally. Grace wasnt fool enough to go rushing in unprepared, however. She took the time to study him instead.
He was as impeccably dressed as ever, she noted sourly, the black suit he was wearing obviously not something hed picked up off the peg. Hed teamed it with a pale blue shirt and a jaunty red and blue silk tie that must have cost a small fortune, but, then, money had never been a problem for Harry because his family was loaded. Harry was used to having the best of everything and it showed.
By contrast, poor Miles looked even more dishevelled than usual. Miles had been struggling to cope since his wife, Penny, had found out last month that she was pregnant. Penny had lost a baby only the previous year and they were both desperate that she didnt lose this one, so Miles had insisted that Penny must do as little as possible during the first trimester. However, it had put him under even more pressure and it was starting to show.
Grace knew that Miles had been doing far too much, but there was little she could do to help when her own workload seemed to be increasing on an almost daily basis. The truth was that the practice was getting far too big for the two of them to manage. Maybe it wouldnt be that bad, having Harry here, if it gave them a respite, she conceded grudgingly.
How about a cup of coffee? Miles suggested, jumping up. He rubbed his chest and grimaced. Thatll teach me to bolt my lunch. Ive had indigestion all afternoon. Id better take some antacids while Im at it.
Dont go to any trouble on my account, Harry said easily. Ill be having dinner when I get back to the hotel.
Oh, its no trouble. Anyway, it will give you and Grace a chance to talk and see if you can reach a compromise. Miles turned to her and Grace could see the beseeching look in his eyes. Just dont say no before youve had time to think about the idea.
Grace didnt say anything. She didnt want to upset Miles but neither was she prepared to be pushed into a decision she might come to regret. She waited until the door had closed before she turned to Harry again.
All right, Im willing to admit that having you here would be a big help at the moment, but how come you happen to have so much free time on your hands? The last I heard youd been appointed to some new government health committee. Id have thought you would have had enough to do with that on top of your job at St Theresas.
St Theresas has been undergoing a major refurbishment programme for the past two years. Obviously, we couldnt close the whole hospital while the work was being done so weve had to shut each department in turn. He shrugged. Its our turn at the moment, so it seemed like the ideal opportunity to take some of the time I had owing to me.
It wont be much of a holiday if you end up working here, she pointed out.
Oh, I dont know. They say that a change is as good as a rest, dont they? he quipped, tipping back his chair and grinning at her.
It was the sort of smile that Grace had seen him bestow dozens of times before on some poor unsuspecting woman or other, but if Harry thought he could turn on the charm and get her to agree to his proposal, he was mistaken. Harry never did anything unless it furthered his own interests and she wasnt about to let him fob her off with any nonsense.
I cant see any point in trying to have a sensible discussion if thats your attitude. She went to stand up then stopped when Harry leant across the desk. Her heart jolted when she saw how serious he looked. Normally, Harry treated life as a huge joke just there for his enjoyment and it was unsettling to see this other side of him for once.
Im sorry. I know how you feel about me, Grace. I should do because youve always made it perfectly clear that you doubted my motives. So to answer your question properly, I happened to be in the area on business rather than on holiday. Working here for a couple of weeks wont spoil my plans one little bit.
He didnt explain what sort of business had brought him all the way to Cumbria and Grace didnt ask. What Harry did was of little interest to her, except where it impinged on her own life, of course.
I see. Now that your business has been concluded, you have some free time on your hands. Her brows rose steeply when he nodded. Thats very altruistic of you, Harry. Not many people would offer to give up their time off like this.
I just want to help. Miles told me about your locum leaving and what had happened to your practice nurse. You might feel that you can cope, Grace, but Miles obviously doesnt share your confidence. Quite frankly, he sounded as though hed reached the end of his tether last night. Its obvious the two of you are under a tremendous amount of pressure and I think you need to take that into account before you turn me down.
I dont need you to remind me about the pressure were under, she snapped, because Harry had touched a nerve. Although she and Miles shared the responsibility of running the practice, she couldnt ignore the fact that Miles had the added worry of Penny to contend with. Not for the first time Grace found herself thinking how fortunate she was not to have to worry about anyone else. She was single out of choice and happy with her life.
Or she was most of the time.
She wasnt sure where that qualification had sprung from and quickly dismissed it. Thoughts like that would only clutter up her mind and that could prove disastrous when dealing with Harry. She sat down again and treated him to a look that was meant to prove she was in control of the situation. The problem was that Harry looked so worried that she couldnt help feeling alarmed, too.
Im not trying to start an argument with you, Grace. It might surprise you to learn that I didnt come here tonight for a fight. I came because I was worried about Miles. Have you looked at him recently?
Of course I have. I see him nearly every day of the week. What kind of a stupid question is that?
I mean really looked at him. Harry sat back in his chair and regarded her thoughtfully. His blue eyes were so intent that Grace found it impossible to look away.
I didnt realise there were different ways of looking at people, she snapped, because he was making her feel really uncomfortable now.
She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear then realised what she was doing. She wasnt going to start worrying about how she looked because of Harry. No way, not in a million years. So what if she was wearing her oldest sweaterthe one with the worn patches on the elbowsand a skirt that should have been sent to the charity shop months ago? And what did it matter if her nose was shiny and her hair needed brushing? Shed worked non-stop from the moment shed arrived that morning and shed been far too busy to worry about her appearance. Maybe Harry had the time to choose the perfect tie to go with his perfect shirt and perfect suit, but lesser mortals didnt.
She opened her mouth to tell Harry that only hed carried on speaking. Grace felt a tremor work its way from the tips of her toes to her knees when she heard what he was saying. She wanted to stop him but some perverse little imp inside her refused to coperate.
Theres dozens of ways of looking at people. It just depends who they are and what they mean to you. It also makes a difference how long its been since you saw them, too. Harry made a steeple with his fingers and studied her over the top of the spire. Take you, for instance, Grace. It must be almost a year since we last saw each other and you look very different now from what you did then. Your hair is shorter for starters and although it suits you, I have to say that I think its a shame youve had it cut because that caramel-brown colour is so unusual. Youve also lost weight. Not a lot, granted, but youre definitely slimmer.
Thank you, Harry. I think youve made your point now.
Grace brusquely cut him off. She couldnt explain it, but the fact that Harry had noticed the changes in her appearance made her feel very odd indeed. It was as though he was seeing her as a woman for the first time and she couldnt pretend that it didnt make her feel extremely conscious of her own femininity all of a sudden.
Then you understand what Im getting at, dont you? Mercifully, Harry seemed unaware of her dilemma as he continued. You see Miles every day so you probably havent noticed the change in him, but I was shocked when I saw him last night. To be honest, I almost didnt recognise him at first. He looks like hes aged five years in the past twelve months.
Its been tough for Miles this past year, Grace conceded. She sighed when Harrys brows rose. She could hardly refuse to explain that comment. Anyway, it might divert his interest away from her and that would be a blessing.
I dont suppose Im betraying any confidences because Miles has never made any secret of the fact that he and Penny have been having problems, she said quickly, not sure why she was so sensitive all of a sudden. She and Harry had traded enough insults to sink a fleet of battleships over the years and she couldnt imagine why she should have been so alarmed by his comments.
Problems. You dont mean with their marriage, do you?
Harry sounded so shocked by the suggestion that she looked at him in surprise. Of course not. Their marriage is rock solid and theyre really happy together. Everything would be perfect, in fact, if they could just have the family theyre both longing for, but Pennys had problems conceiving. She had a miscarriage last year so now that shes pregnant again, Miles is taking no chances. Hes insisted that she must rest as much as possible, but that means hes been trying to do everything himself.
Not easy when youre so busy here, Harry agreed soberly. He sighed, his handsome face looking unaccustomedly sad. Its such a shame. Miles and Penny are the kind of people who make you want to believe in all that happily-ever-after nonsense. So many marriages fail that its nice to see a couple actually making a go of it.
I never thought youd be an advocate for marriage, Grace observed tartly, to hide her surprise. Shed never expected to hear Harry expounding on the joys of matrimony. It simply didnt go with the image she had of him and it was unsettling to think that she might have to adjust her ideas.
Oh, Im a great believer in the institution of marriage, he declared. So long as I dont have to get personally involved in promoting it as a lifestyle choice then Im more than happy to give it my vote.
Typical, Grace snorted. Why would you want to spoil your fun by making a commitment to one woman when you can have your pick from dozens? Im just surprised you found the time to come here tonight, Harry, when you could be using it so much more productively.
Oh, the night is young yet and theres plenty of time left forpleasure.
His deep voice lingered on the last word and the tiny hairs on the back of Graces neck sprang to attention. She had a sudden and far too vivid mental picture of how Harry might pleasure the latest woman in his life, so she quickly stood up. Harry might be prepared to sit here and play these silly games but she wasnt going to play them with him.
How very nice for you. Now, if youll excuse me, Id like to have a word with Miles before I make my decision.
Of course. But take your time, Grace, and really think about what youre doing. Id hate you to turn down my offer and then regret it.
Harry stood up as she came round the desk and she was forced to stop. He was several inches taller than she was so that she had to tip back her head to look at him. Maybe it was that which made her feel so vulnerable all of a sudden.
I want you to be sure in your own heart, Grace, that you really dont want me here.
Harry knew he shouldnt tease Grace like that but it was hard to resist when she always rose so sweetly to his baiting. He hid his smile as he watched a dozen different expressions cross her face. She was trying to decide whether she should ignore him or tear a strip off him, and he realised with a sudden flash of insight that he didnt mind which it was. Fighting with Grace was a whole lot more fun than making love had been with many of the women hed dated over the past few years.
The thought caught him unawares so it was a relief when Grace swept past him without uttering a word. Harry went to the window after shed left, wondering where the idea had sprung from. Grace Kennedy had been a pain in the butt ever since hed met her on their first day at Oxford together. Shed taken an instant dislike to him and had never once missed the opportunity to goad him since then.
Harry had found himself responding in kind even though hed known he should try to rise above such childish behaviour. It was just that Graces remarks had seemed to prick harder and more painfully than anyone elses had done. Shed been one of the top students in their year so hed told himself that it was competitiveness that had caused the problem: Grace had resented the fact that he was every bit as talented as she was and that was why shed given him hell, and it had become a point of honour that he should retaliate. Now he found himself wondering if there was another reason why theyd kept up the sparring for all these years. Was it possible that he and Grace were attracted to each other?
He groaned. It was obviously a night for stupid thoughts. He didnt seriously imagine that Grace found him attractive. They argued because she neither liked nor trusted him, and because he refused to do anything to improve her opinion of him. It made him see how difficult it would be for them to work together in such circumstances. It wouldnt help poor Miles if he and Grace were constantly at odds.
He sighed as he stared across the empty car park. It was a blow to face that fact, when hed thought that hed found the ideal solution to his problems as well as Miless. Hed never got around to telling Miles last night the reason why he was in Cumbria. Miles had been so stressed that he hadnt found the right moment to broach the subject, which was ironic, really, because this new health service committee hed been appointed to had been set up specifically to find ways to relieve the pressure on rural GPs.
Harry had spoken to dozens of general practitioners over the past few weeks, but he still hadnt been able to get a true picture of all the problems they faced. Few people liked to admit they couldnt cope and GPs were no different to anyone else in that respect. Hed been hoping to get some truthful answers out of Miles, but once hed learned about the difficulties his friend was experiencing, Harry had realised it was the opportunity he needed. If he offered to work at the surgery then not only would he be helping Miles but hed be able to experience the pressures at first hand.
Hed decided to talk to Miles and Grace about it that evening, but now he could see how pointless it would be. Although he was confident that Miles would agree to his proposal, Grace certainly wouldnt. Shed probably see it as a slight on the way they ran the practice and the last thing Harry wanted was to create a rift between the two partners. All things considered, it might be better if he told Miles that hed changed his mind.
Can you phone for an ambulance?
Grace came rushing back into the room. Harry felt his heart sink when he saw the expression on her face. Whats wrong? he demanded as he watched her wrench open a cupboard door.
Its Miles. I th-think h-hes having a heart attack.
Her voice caught and she bit her lip. Harry could see that her hands were shaking as she tried to take a syringe out of the box. He hurried across the room and took it from her then looked around.
Drugs?
In that steel cabinet in the corner. Heres the keys.
She handed him a bunch of keys. Harry took them and quickly unlocked the cupboard. You phone for an ambulance while I sort this out, he instructed, checking through the vials until he found what he needed.
Oh, but
For heavens sake, Grace, dont waste time arguing. Just do it.
He didnt wait to see how she took that: there wasnt time. He left her in the office and ran along the corridor, cursing under his breath because hed forgotten to ask her where he would find Miles. Fortunately, there were only three other doors leading off the corridor and he found Miles propped up against the sink unit in the staffroom.
Hows it going, old man? Harry asked, dropping to his knees beside him.
Ive had better days, Miles muttered, clutching his chest.
Ill bet you have. Harry quickly rolled up his friends shirtsleeve and swabbed his arm then slid the needle into his vein. There. That should ease the pain in a moment or two so lets take a look at you.
He took hold of Miless wrist and checked his pulse. It was a little fast but strong enough, and he smiled encouragingly at him. Well, the old tickers still working away, youll be pleased to hear.
Nice to know Im not dead yet, Miles replied with a brave stab at humour.
Oh, theres plenty of life in the old dog yet, Harry said airily, hoping he wasnt tempting fate.
He carried on with his examination, looking for all the usual signs he would expect to find in a case of myocardial infarction, things like shortness of breath, sweating and an absence of colour in the skin. Miles was exhibiting all of those symptoms, worryingly enough, so Harry was relieved when Grace appeared to tell him the ambulance was on its way.
Good. Hospitals the best place for you, he declared as Grace knelt down beside them. She lent forward to loosen the collar of Miless shirt and Harry sucked in his breath when he felt a stab of awareness hit him squarely in the gut as her shoulder brushed against his chest.
He hastily stood up. The last thing he needed was for his mind to start playing those tricks again. He didnt fancy Grace any more than she fancied him. The pattern of their relationship had been set years ago and this definitely wasnt the time to start altering it. He adopted a deliberately neutral expression when she glanced up because he didnt intend to make the mistake of handing her any ammunition to use against him in the future.
The ambulance should be here soon but Im worried they might not be able to find us, she explained anxiously. Its really dark at this end of the village and Id hate them to miss the turning and drive straight past.
Ill go and wait by the gates so I can flag them down, Harry offered, relieved to have something to do. You stay here and look after Miles.
Thanks, Harry. That would be a real help. I appreciate it.
It was the first time Harry could remember her ever speaking to him with any warmth in her voice. As he left the kitchen, he found himself marvelling at the effect itd had. He wanted to leap up and punch the air as though hed scored a major victory, although he had no idea why. Grace had merely treated him on a par with everyone else. Shed spoken to him as a normal human being instead of as her worst enemy. Why that should be a cause for celebration, he couldnt imagine.
He left the surgery and headed down the drive. It was a bitterly cold night and his overcoat was still hanging on the back of the consulting-room door, but he never noticed the discomfort. His head seemed to be whirling, thoughts spinning around inside it like the bits of coloured glass whizzing about inside that kaleidoscope hed had as a kid. One thought suddenly caught and took shape.
Sparring with Grace had been a lot of fun, but what would it be like if they could talk to each other and discover all the things they had in common?
The idea dissolved before he could attempt to deal with it and another took its place.
And if they did achieve a degree of harmony, then wouldnt it be a shame to stop there? After all, Grace was a beautiful woman and hed never denied that, so wouldnt it be great if they could establish a more intimate relationship
The wail of a siren came as a blessing in more ways than one. As he flagged down the ambulance, Harry felt like a condemned man must feel on receiving a last-minute pardon. He had no idea what was prompting all these crazy thoughts but one thing was certain: he and Grace would never have that kind of a relationship.
CHAPTER TWO (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
WHY doesnt someone come and tell us whats happening?
These things take time, Penny, so try not to worry. Theyll let us know how Miles is just as soon as they can.
Grace put a comforting arm around Pennys shoulders but the long wait was taking its toll on her, too. She glanced at her watch and sighed when she realised that over an hour had passed since Miles had been admitted to the emergency department of their local hospital. Shed travelled in the ambulance with him while Harry had gone to fetch Penny. Hed seemed to take it for granted that he would stay with them, and Grace had to admit that shed been glad of his support. Harry seemed to have the knack of knowing the right thing to say to calm Penny down so now she glanced at him and raised her brows.
Grace is right, sweetheart. You must try not to worry. Harry obviously took the hint because he got up and came over to them. You know how long it takes to get a heart tracing and do all the bloods and everything else.
I know, and Im sorry, but its just so hard to sit here when I dont even know if MilesIf heshes. Penny stopped and gulped, unable to give voice to her very worst fears.
If anything awful had happened to Miles, theyd have come and told you. Harry crouched down and took hold of Pennys hands. You remember the drill, dont you? You should do because you were an A and E nurse for long enough. You inform the relatives immediately if its bad news. Its one of the unwritten rules.
I remember, Penny whispered, dredging up a smile. Its just so different when youre the one waiting to hear something.
I know, sweetheart, but you must try to be strong for Miles and for your baby.
He leant forward and kissed Pennys cheek. Grace felt a lump come to her throat. This wasnt Harry Shaw using his legendary charm to his own ends but a bona fide show of concern, and there was no denying that it had touched her deeply to witness it.
Ill try. Thank you, Harry. And you, too, Grace. Penny took hold of Graces hand and placed it on top of Harrys. You two are the best. I dont know what Id have done without you both tonight.
Graces heartbeat quickened when she felt the warmth of Harrys hand beneath her palm. She desperately wanted to pull away but she didnt want to risk upsetting Penny. She sat quite still, praying that Harry couldnt feel how fast her pulse was racing. This is just a moment of friendship, she told herself firmly. Penny needs it to help her through this difficult time. However, it was hard to focus on that thought when she was so conscious of the warmth of Harrys flesh beneath her own. It was a relief when a nurse appeared because it meant that she could quite legitimately break the contact.
Mrs Farrington? The nurse smiled as Penny hastily identified herself. You can see your husband now.
Is he all right? Penny demanded, jumping to her feet.
Hes fine. Dr Williams will explain everything if youll just follow me.
Yes, of course. Penny hurried to the door then paused and looked back. Will you stay? I know its late but I dont think I can face being here on my own.
Well be right here, waiting for you, Penny, Grace assured her. She let out a sigh of relief after the door closed. Doesnt sound as though the prognosis is too grim. Do you think Miles really did have an infarc?
Its hard to say for certain without seeing the ECG tracings, Harry replied, going over to the coffee-machine. It could have been an angina attack, I suppose. The symptoms are very similar.
Mmm, you could be right. Grace frowned as she considered that possibility. Miles is rather young to be suffering from angina, although its not unknown. Most patients are in their fifties when they first exhibit any symptoms but there are cases of men as young as thirty being diagnosed with angina.
Its not just confined to men either. More and more women are presenting with angina nowadays, Harry observed, feeding coins into the machine.
Thats true. Women are having more heart attacks than they used to. Its all down to a change in lifestyle and the fact that people are eating more convenience food and not taking enough exercise. She sighed. I try to drum it into our patients that they need to exercise and watch their diet, but they just think Im nagging.
Until they have a heart attack and realise that you were telling them the truth all along. Harry handed her a cup of tepid coffee and sat down. Then theyre desperate to undo all the years of neglect.
Something like that, she agreed, sipping the coffee and grimacing at the powdery aftertaste it left on her tongue. She put the cup on the table and looked at him. How come youre so clued up about heart disease?
Because its all part and parcel of being a physician. Harry took a swallow of his coffee then sighed. If I had a pound for every man and woman Ive seen heading for a heart attack, Id be able to retire. What is it about people that makes them ignore all the advice we give them and carry on doing the wrong things?
Stubbornness? she suggested with a grin because he sounded so frustrated. Folk hate to be told what to do. They want to live their lives the way they chose to.
And to hell with the consequences. His tone was wry. Only, when something does go wrong, they expect us to come up with a solution.
I dont know why you sound so surprised. Didnt you realise that were supposed to perform miracles? Its part of our remit, along with all the other things a doctor is supposed to do.
Well, I for one am right out of miracles, Harry declared, swinging his feet onto the coffee-table. Im only a humble physician, dont forget, not a surgeon. Its the surgeons who are closest to God, not the likes of you and me.
Grace burst out laughing. I never thought Id hear you admit that. I thought you believed that you had a direct line to heaven.
Sorry to disappoint you but Im under no illusions. He lifted the cup to his lips, watching her over the rim. Im just a guy who wants to help people, Grace. Thats all Ive ever been.
Grace felt a shiver run down her spine and quickly looked away. She couldnt explain it, but there was something about the way Harry had said it that convinced her hed been telling the truth. Harry didnt see himself as some sort of all-powerful being but as a man who wanted to help others less fortunate than himself, and it was a revelation to realise it.
Shed had Harry summed up from the moment shed met him: a rich playboy whose only aim in life was to have a good time and cover himself in glory. Now that image had started to go all fuzzy around the edges and it was alarming to realise that she might have been wrong about him all this time. It was a relief when he changed the subject.
Anyway, getting back to Miles. Even if he hasnt had an infarc, its doubtful hell be fit enough to return to work for some time, so what are you going to do? My offer still stands, if youre interested.
Ill bear it in mind. Grace flushed when his brows rose. It was obvious that her less-than-enthusiastic response hadnt been lost on him. However, she didnt intend to apologise because she had reservations about him working at the surgery.
Id prefer to wait and see what the verdict is on Miles first before I decide what to do, she told him coolly.
Fine. Its up to you, of course. Harry drained his cup then swung his feet off the table and stood up. I think Ill go outside for a bit of fresh air. Its stifling in here. I wont be longten minutes max.
You dont have to stay, she said quickly, hoping he couldnt tell how eager she was all of a sudden for him to leave. Oh, it had been fine while Penny had been there, shed been very glad of Harrys company then. However, it was different now they were on their own. In the past half-hour shed learned things about him that shed never dreamed might be true, and it had unsettled her to have to adjust her view of him. How much more unsettling would it be if they continued the conversation throughout the night?
Why do I have a feeling that youre trying to get rid of me? Harry turned to look at her and Graces heart missed a beat when she saw the speculation in his eyes.
Ive no idea. She shrugged, hoping he couldnt tell how desperate she was for him to leave. Maybe its because you find it hard to believe that Ill be able to manage without your manly shoulder to lean on? Well, dont worry, Harry. Ill be perfectly fine on my own so you can leave with a clear conscience. Im sure you must have more interesting things to do with your evening than spend it hanging around a hospital waiting room.
The only plans I have for this evening involve bed. He laughed when he saw her mouth purse. Tut, tut, Grace, what are you thinking? I meant that I was planning on having an early nightalone. He opened the door and winked at her. Dont worry, Ill be back soon. You can count on it.
Grace ground her teeth, wishing that shed never said anything. All shed succeeded in doing had been to make herself look foolishnot that it was the first time, of course. Where Harry was concerned she invariably found herself saying the wrong thing, which was why she usually resorted to squabbling with him. It was easier to fight with him than run the risk of falling under his spell.
The thought alarmed her so much that she leapt to her feet. Her heart was pounding as she left the waiting room to go and find Penny because there was no way that she could deny the truth. In the past ten years shed done everything in her power to shut Harry out of her life. That was why shed lobbed insults at him, goaded him and accused him of all manner of things. Shed seen how charming he could be, how witty and how much fun, and shed been afraid that he would somehowwell, seduce her.
That was the last thing she wanted to happen. Shed witnessed at first hand how destructive love could be, had watched as her mothers life had been torn apart as her father had indulged in one affair after another, and shed sworn it would never happen to her. Thats why she rarely dated and never went out with any man who reminded her of her fathera man exactly like Harry, in fact. But tonight shed lowered her guard and Harry had been every bit as charming as shed feared he would be. Now she was unable to think of him simply as a womanising Lothario. There were depths to Harry that shed never suspected.
I get off at eleven so why dont you give me a call? Im a real night-owl and never go to bed until after midnightunless I have a really good reason, of course.
Grace stopped dead when she heard voices up ahead. She peered along the dimly lit corridor and spotted a couple tucked into the alcove next to the pay-phone. She recognised Harry immediately, although it took a moment longer before she realised that the young woman with him was the nurse whod come to fetch Penny. There were no prizes for guessing what they were up to, however.
Graces eyes narrowed as she studied their body language which, quite frankly, should have been X-rated. The way that young nurse was simpering up at Harry was positively obscene. As for Harrywell, he seemed to be lapping it up as though it was his due. Had he used the excuse that hed needed some fresh air so he could track down the nurse and make his move on her? Grace wondered in disgust. Well, if that was the case, she certainly wasnt going to cramp his style.
She spun round and marched back to the waiting room, slamming the door behind her with enough force to make the window rattle in its frame. She couldnt believe what a fool shed been. For a few minutes shed actually believed that shed been wrong about Harry, and the thought of how easily he had duped her made her want to spit tacks. Leopards never changed their spots. Harry Shaw had been a womanising Lothario when shed first met him, and he was exactly the same now.
Im not really sure whats happening tonight.
Harry tried to edge away but the nurse had effectively trapped him in the alcove. He glanced along the corridor when he heard a door slam, hoping that someone would come along and rescue him. However, his hopes were dashed when nobody appeared. He sighed under his breath. He would just have to extricate himself.
Ill probably end up staying here until all hours of the morning and I couldnt possibly expect you to wait up for my call.
He treated the girl to his most charming smile, desperately wishing that he didnt have this effect on women. Although it sounded arrogant to say so, it had always been the samethey fell for his looks and the fact that he was wealthy. While it had been fun when he had been younger, hed grown weary of being viewed merely as an object of their lust.
He wanted a proper relationship now, not the kind of shallow alliance that was based solely on sex. He wanted a relationship in which he could share his innermost thoughts and feelings. The kind of rapport, in fact, that hed enjoyed tonight with Grace before shed gone all prickly on him again.
The thought caught him completely off guard. Harry found himself floundering when the nurse asked if he had a pen so she could write down her telephone number for him. He gave it to her then waited in silence while she scribbled the number on a bit of paper and tucked it in his top pocket. Mercifully, the ward sister appeared at that point and summoned her back to work so he was able to make his escape, but he couldnt deny that he felt completely out of kilter as he made his way back to the waiting room.
Why did he keep having all these strange thoughts about Grace? Was it just the fact that shed treated him differently that nighttalked to him, laughed with him, behaved as though he wasnt the lowest form of pond life? He wasnt convinced that was the reason why he was behaving so strangely, but he felt unusually nervous as he went into the room.
Any news yet? he asked, striving for a measure of calm.
You tell me. Grace treated him to a smile so cold that it could have reversed the effects of global warming, and Harry frowned.
Whats that supposed to mean?
Work it out for yourself. It shouldnt be that difficult for an intelligent man like you, Harry.
She picked up a magazine and proceeded to ignore him as she flicked through its pages. Harry sighed because he really wasnt in the mood to play games with her at the moment.
Look, Grace, I apologise if Ive done something to upset you he began, but she didnt let him finish. Tossing the magazine onto the table, she glared at him.
I am not upset. If you want to chat up every single woman in this hospital then good luck to you. However, I do object to being told a pack of lies. If you wanted to go and find that nurse, why didnt you say so? Im hardly going to fall down in a heap because youre chatting up some woman.
So that was it. Harry felt a wave of relief wash over him. Grace must have seen him talking to that nurse and assumed hed engineered the meeting. He hastened to reassure her, even though he wasnt sure why it was so important that she knew what had really gone on.
I did go out for some fresh air. I just happened to bump into Cathy on my way back, thats all.
Oh, so its Cathy, is it? Obviously, you didnt waste any time getting acquainted with her.
Grace treated him to another of those icy smiles and he sighed again. It was obvious that she didnt believe he was the innocent party.
Just because I know her name doesnt mean that your allegations are true, he pointed out in his most reasonable tone. It happened exactly as I told you. I was coming back inside when she stopped me. He shrugged. I couldnt just ignore her, could I?
Of course not. I mean, it would have been unthinkable to tell her that you were far too worried about your friend to think about youruhother needs.
Her voice dripped with scorn and Harry gritted his teeth. It took a massive effort of will to damp down his anger, but he really and truly didnt want to fight with her right now.
Was that what she was trying to do? he wondered. Poke and prod at him until he retaliated? He sensed it was true yet he couldnt understand why she would do such a thing. Unless she was afraid that if they didnt argue, she might be forced to admit that she was jealous of the attention hed been paying the other woman.
The thought was so mind-bogglingly complicated that he didnt know how to handle it. He was still struggling, in fact, when the door opened and Penny appeared. Grace jumped up, ignoring him as she led Penny to a chair and sat her down.
How is Miles? she demanded, sitting beside her.
Much better than I feared. Penny gave them a wobbly smile. Theyre fairly sure that he suffered an angina attack rather than a full-blown myocardial infarction. The resting ECG tracing shows no sign of damage to his heart but they want to do more tests tomorrowget Miles onto the treadmill to see how his heart responds during exercise. The consultant I spoke to seems fairly confident that it was a coronary artery spasm, though.
Probably brought on by the pressure that Miles has been under recently, Harry observed, relieved to have something to focus on other than what Grace might or might not be thinking. Lets face it, Miles has been running himself ragged of late. It was just a matter of time before something like this happened.
I know, and thats why Im determined that hes going to have a complete rest. Penny took a deep breath then looked at him and Grace. I know you two have had your differences in the past, but if you could just put them aside for now, you could actually be saving Miless life. He needs complete rest and the only way hell get it is if he knows the practice is being taken care of. I know its a lot to ask, but do you think you two could manage to work together for the next couple of weeks?
CHAPTER THREE (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
HARRY knew that if Penny had asked him that question a couple of hours ago, he wouldnt have hesitated. He would have told her quite emphatically that there wouldnt be a problem. Now he was no longer sure if it was the truth. Could he really imagine himself working with Grace when just a few hours of her company had caused such an upheaval in his life?
Iumwell he stumbled as his usual composure deserted him.
I wouldnt ask if I wasnt desperate. There were tears in Pennys eyes now as she looked up at him. I just cant bear to think of anything happening to Miles, especially now.
She laid her hand protectively on her stomach and Harry knew he was sunk. How could he turn his back on his two oldest friends when they needed his help so desperately? He wouldnt be able to live with himself if anything happened to Miles or this precious baby, so he would have to agree and simply hope that he and Grace could get through the coming weeks relatively unscathed.
He turned to Grace, praying that she couldnt tell how uneasy he felt at the thought of their forthcoming alliance. Im willing to give it a shot if you are. He held out his hand. So, shall we call a truce?
An expression which looked almost like panic crossed her face before she quickly stood up. All right. Im willing to meet you halfway, if it means were helping Miles and Penny.
Harry smiled wryly. It hadnt been panic at all, but Grace being her usual cautious self. It was typical of her to qualify her agreement like that, to make sure he knew that she was accepting his offer purely for the sake of their friends. She would never admit to any sign of weakness in front of him, never acknowledge that she, too, would benefit from his help in the surgery. She would never give an inch if it meant he might gain any ground, and maybe it was that thought that made him decide to seal their agreement with more than the customary handshake. The thought of getting a little further under Graces skin was oddly appealing.
He took her outstretched hand but instead of shaking it, as shed expected him to do, he pulled her towards him and kissed her on the cheek. Sealed with a kiss. Theres no going back on our pact now, Grace.
He let her go, hoping she couldnt tell the effect the kiss had had on him. It was his own fault for trying to goad her, but it had been ages since hed felt this stirring in his blood, so long, in fact, that hed begun to wonder if it would ever happen again. Yet all it had taken had been the touch of his lips against her skin and he was all fired up and raring to go. What was happening to him? Did he fancy Grace, or was he going completely crazy?
I wouldnt dream of going back on a promise, Grace said stiffly. She turned to Penny, trying to resist the urge to run her hand over her cheek. She could feel the lingering warmth of Harrys lips making her skin tingle and longed to erase it, but there was no way that she was going to let him think that the kiss had had any effect on her.
It looks as though your problem has been solved, Penny. Now theres no excuse for Miles not to follow his consultants advice.
And I intend to make sure he follows it to the letter. Penny stood up and hugged her. Thank you so much, Grace. And you, too, Harry. I cant tell you how grateful I am to you both.
Dont mention it. Harry treated them to one of his most charming smiles, the kind of smile that normally made Grace grind her teeth. The fact that she didnt feel like grinding them now just increased her anxiety. What on earth was going on? Why did she feel all warm and sort ofbreathless just because Harry was smiling at her? She was still trying to work out the answer when he opened the waiting-room door.
I wont be long. Theres something I need to do before we leave.
Hmm, that something wouldnt have anything to do with a pretty blonde nurse whos been extolling your virtues to all and sundry, would it? Penny laughed when he looked suitably modest. You never change, Harry. Youll still have women queuing up outside your door when youre ninety.
With a bit of luck.
He winked at them then left, and it was a good job he went when he did. Grace knew that if hed stayed there even a second longer, she would have been tempted to throw something at him. Maybe Penny found his womanising antics amusing but she thought they were pathetic.
Grace, whats wrong? Are you feeling all right?
She jumped when Penny touched her on the arm, and dredged up a smile when she saw the concern on her friends face. Im fine.
Are you sure? Penny looked increasingly worried despite the reassurance. I shouldnt have done that, should I? I know how you feel about Harry and it was wrong of me to force you into a corner like that.
You didnt force me, Penny. It was my decision and Im perfectly happy with it. Grace held her smile, although it felt as though her face was about to split into two. However, she had to convince Penny that she was telling the truth, otherwise her friend would continue to worry.
Harry and I are both grown-ups and we can handle working together without World War Three breaking out. In fact, Im rather looking forward to it.
You are? Penny looked at her in surprise.
Mmm. Harrys got bags of experience and Ill learn a lot from him, Grace assured her, hoping the words wouldnt choke her.
Yes, of course you will, although it wont be all one-sided, Penny said loyally. Youre a brilliant doctor in your own right, Grace, so I expect Harry will learn just as much from you.
Grace didnt say anything to that. However, as she followed Penny from the room so they could go and tell Miles the good news, she found herself wondering exactly what she had in her repertoire of skills which would be of interest to Harry. There certainly wasnt anything on the romance front that she could teach himhe was an acknowledged expert in that field. As for her medical skills, well, he could probably match her any day of the week.
No, the only thing she could possibly teach him was humility, although it was a lesson the mighty Harry Shaw might not be keen to learn. When youve been at the top of the heap all your life, thinking that you are the same as everyone else wouldnt come easily, although that wasnt what Harry had claimed earlier that night. Hed described himself as a man who just wanted to help others, hadnt he?
Grace shivered. She couldnt explain it, certainly couldnt understand it, but she knew the assertion had altered the way she thought about Harry. It was as though there was suddenly something in the plus column to weigh against all those minuses that had accumulated over the years. Although she hated to admit it, Harry might not be all bad after all.
Ive done a printout of all the clinics we hold each month. I thought it would help if you had an idea of our schedule.
Thanks.
Harry took the list from Grace and glanced through it. His brows rose when he suddenly realised the extent of the work she and Miles had been doing. Nearly every single afternoon was filled with things like the mother-and-baby clinics, antenatal clinics and clinics for people who were trying to stop smoking or lose weight. Add all of those to the regular morning and evening surgeries and it seemed his life was going to be extremely full for the next few weeks.
You certainly offer a very complete service here, he observed, leaning back in his chair. It was just gone eight a.m. and they were in Miless officethe office Harry would be using while he was working there. Although it had been after midnight when hed dropped Grace off at her house in the village, she had telephoned him before seven that morning to ask him if he would meet her at the surgery.
Harry had agreed immediately, even though hed been fast asleep when shed phoned. However, it had seemed like a point of honour not to let the side down so he had dragged himself out of bed and into the shower, and, by skipping breakfast, had managed to get to the surgery a couple of minutes before shed arrived. He could have murdered for a cup of coffee but hed be damned if he would show any sign of weakness by suggesting they should stop for a drink. If Grace could keep up this punishing schedule then so could he.
We do our best to fulfil all our patients needs, she said briskly, taking another sheet of paper out of her file. This is a list of our contacts at the local hospital. Obviously, you can request an appointment for a patient through the usual channels, but we find it speeds things up if we approach the head of each department on a personal basis. She shrugged. A phone call is all it usually takes so it doesnt require that much extra effort.
It must add up, though. Harry frowned as he took the sheet from her. I know how difficult it is to get hold of people so I doubt one phone call would do it. You must have to phone back several times.
Miles and I tend to make any phone calls after morning surgery finishes. That way we can catch people during their lunch-break and keep to our timetable.
I see. Harry didnt say anything else as he placed the list on top of the other one. He was there to help, not to question how the practice was run. Nevertheless, he couldnt help thinking that it was no wonder Miles was so stressed when he was cramming so much into his day. Morning surgeries, evening surgeries, clinics, phone callshe wouldnt have time to draw breath.
How long do you allow for each consultation? he asked, opting for a less controversial topic.
We allocate ten minutes per patient, more if its someone we know we will have to spend extra time with.
Thats quite generous, he observed, recalling what other GPs had told him recently. Most practices allow six minutes per patient and try to get away with less than that if they can.
We find its a false economy to cut corners. If you dont spend time getting to the root of a problem, invariably the patient ends up having to come back to see you.
Its a valid point, although I suppose it depends on how many patients you book in for each surgery, he conceded, making a note to add it to his report. If more time was spent at the initial assessment stage then a second appointment might be avoided, and that was bound to be of help to an overworked GP. Whats your maximum number of appointments per session?
We dont have a set limit. Both morning and evening surgeries are run on an open-door basisin other words, if someone needs to see us they just turn up on the day.
But thats crazy. You could have the whole village turning up and have to see them.
I doubt it. Most people around here are too busy to waste their time by making unnecessary trips to see the doctor. She shrugged. We find it works so I see no reason to change the routine. But if you find the pace too much for you, you only have to say so. I can deal with any patients you arent able to see.
I am more than happy to do my share of the work, he said flatly. He knew that she was trying to goad him but he wasnt going to fall into that trap again. No matter what Grace said or did from now on, he wasnt going to rise to the bait.
Then we wont have a problem, will we? She stood up and came around the desk, pausing as she drew level with him. Is there anything else you need to know? I think Ive covered more or less everything to do with the day-to-day routine, but if theres anything youre not clear about then say so.
No, it all seems fairly straightforward.
He stood up as well, feeling a tremor pass through him when his arm accidentally brushed against hers as he pushed back his chair. It immediately reminded him of what had happened the night before, and he sighed.
He still couldnt understand why that kiss had made such an impression on him. Hed been so afraid that Grace would notice something was wrong that hed been desperate to get away. When Penny had assumed that he was going to look for that nurse, he hadnt bothered correcting her because it had seemed the easiest way to resolve his dilemma. Now, however, he found himself wishing that he hadnt let Grace believe that he was interested in the young woman. Maybe it was silly to be so sensitive but he wouldnt want her to think that he was more concerned with his love life than doing a good job here.
Look, Grace, about that nurse last night
Please. She held up her hand, her beautiful mouth curling in distaste. Too much information, Harry. What you do in your free time is your business. I really dont want to hear all the gory details.
She swept past him, leaving him feeling completely dumbfounded. Did she honestly think that he was crass enough to discuss his sex life with her? His spirits sank as he realised what a low opinion she must have of him. That he was more than partly to blame for it made him feel even worse. He should have put an end to their squabbling years ago.
Grace hurried into her consulting room and closed the door. Shed been dreading seeing Harry that morning and it had turned out to be every bit as bad as shed feared. It had been hard enough to maintain her composure when hed seen fit to criticise the way she and Miles ran the practice, but when hed started to tell her about his nightly exploits with that nurseWell!
Heat swept through her and she clutched hold of the doorknob. She didnt want to think about Harrys sex life but she couldnt seem to control the images that were crowding into her head, pictures of him and that nurse curled up in bed togetheronly it wasnt the nurse. Shed had blonde hair and the woman in her minds eye had brown hair, caramel brown, just like hers
Grace leapt away from the door and hurried to her desk. She must be more tired than shed realised if she was dreaming up rubbish like that. It would be a cold day in hell before Harry Shaw got her into his bed.
Shed just switched on her computer when Janet, their receptionist, popped her head round the door to ask if she wanted a cup of coffee. Grace smiled gratefully. Yes, please. I didnt have time to make myself a drink before I left home this morning.
Janet shook her head. You should eat a proper breakfast before you come into work. You need to keep your strength up. Why did you have to be here so early, anyway? I saw you drive past my house when I was fetching in the milk and it wasnt even eight oclock at the time.
Grace sighed as she realised that Janet had no idea what had happened to Miles. She quickly explained the situation to her, stressing the fact that Miles should make a full recovery when she saw how upset the receptionist was. Everyone in the village loved Miles and she knew that a lot of people would be upset when they heard the news.
So what are you going to do? Janet asked, wiping away a tear. I mean, you cant manage all on your own. Theres far too much work for just one person.
Which is why weve enlisted one of our friends to help until Miles is feeling better.
Grace drummed up a smile, knowing that she couldnt let anyone suspect that she had doubts about working with Harry. If the patients had any inkling of how uneasy she felt about this alliance, they would have no confidence in Harry. Dr Shaw has offered to cover until Miles is feeling better, and I have to say that I think were very lucky to have him. Hes a superb physician and I know that our patients are going to receive the best possible care.
She glanced up when a movement outside the door caught her attention, and blushed when she saw Harry was standing there, listening to what she was saying. He grinned at her as he came into the room, his blue eyes full of laughter and something else, something that made her feel all hot and shivery, as though she was running a fever. Having Harry look at her as though he was genuinely delighted by her comments was the last thing shed expected. She wanted to run over to him and tell him that every word had been true, but how could she when she knew what he was really like?
Harry Shaw was a womanising Lothario. He didnt do anything unless it furthered his own career and brought him personal glory.
Grace made herself recite all the reasons why she disliked Harry but they no longer seemed to have the impact theyd had in the past. It all sounded very airy-fairy now, as though they were excuses, not genuine reasons. Did she truly believe that was all there was to Harry, or was she desperately trying to hold onto her old prejudices because she was afraid to face the truth? That Harry was a damned fine doctor who had worked incredibly hard to reach his present exalted position.
She didnt want to admit that she might have been wrong about him, but nothing seemed certain any more. The boundaries that had been drawn when theyd been students seemed to be breaking down, and Harry was no longer on one side and she on the other. For the next few weeks they would be working together as a team and, quite frankly, Grace didnt know how she was going to cope. She had a feeling that once Harry crossed that final boundary, her life would be changed for ever.
CHAPTER FOUR (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
IF YOU would pop Bethany on the couch and take off her top and pants, I can examine her. I see from her notes that she was complaining of pains in her legs when you brought her in to see Dr Farrington at the beginning of December. How is she now?
Harry pulled back the screen and waited while Mrs Clarke settled her daughter on the examination couch. Five-year-old Bethany looked very pale and listless as her mother undressed her.
Much the same. She still keeps saying that her legs are sore. Dr Farrington said it was probably a virus because there were a lot of kiddies ill at the time with some bug or other. But it should have cleared up by now, I would have thought.
These things can take time to work themselves out of the system, Harry explained, although it was unusual for a child to be ill for this length of time if it was only a viral infection. Can you just explain how it all started? Ive read Bethanys notes but its better to have a first-hand account, I find.
Well, its like I said, Beth kept telling me her legs were hurting. I just assumed shed hurt them when shed been climbing the trees in our back garden so I didnt take that much notice at first. Mrs Clarke sighed. She has three older brothers, you see, and shes always trying to copy them and getting into mischief.
A real little tomboy, are you, young lady? Harry smiled at the little girl, although he had to admit that there didnt seem much sign of any mischief that day. Bethany appeared far too listless to cause any trouble. Bending down, he examined her legs, frowning when he saw that they were covered in bruises.
How did she get all these bruises? he asked, glancing at the mother.
Ive no idea. I only spotted them at the weekend. If shed been playing outside, I would have assumed shed fallen over and hurt herself, but shes not wanted to leave the house since Christmas. Mrs Clarke stroked her daughters hair. She keeps saying that shes too tired to play and its just not like her. Thats why I decided to bring her to the surgery again today. Its not natural for a child this age to be complaining that shes tired all the time, is it, Doctor?
Not if shes getting the right amount of sleep at night, Harry agreed, moving to the top of the couch. He gently felt around Bethanys neck and under her arms, hiding his dismay when he discovered how enlarged the lymph nodes were in those areas. Although he would have expected to find some sign of enlargement if Bethanys body was fighting off an infection, this degree of swelling was unusual. It could be a sign that there was something seriously wrong with the child, although he didnt intend to rush to any conclusions. He would spend an extra few minutes checking the facts, as Grace had advised him to do.
The thought of Grace sent a rush of heat along his veins. He had to make a determined effort to ignore it as he carried on with his examination. Has Bethany complained of pain anywhere else, or have you noticed anything unusual happening recently? he asked, trying not to dwell on how good it had felt to hear Grace praise him like that. He knew that in all likelihood it had been necessity that had prompted those comments: shed wanted the receptionist to think that she was happy to work with him so it wouldnt cause any unrest within the practice. However, he couldnt deny that it had been a boost to his ego to hear her say something good about him for a change.
Not really. Its been her legs mainly that shes been complaining about.
And theres been nothing else bothering her? he insisted gently, sensing that the mother was holding something back.
Well, its probably nothing. I told her dad about it but he just said I was fussing so I wasnt going to mention it, but her gums have been bleeding. Its not just when she cleans her teeth either, which is why I thought it was a bit odd.
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Jennifer Taylor
Playboy doctor Harry Shaw is rich, successful and extremely handsome. Since his arrival at Ferndale Surgery, he has charmed almost everybody, except GP Grace Kennedy. Grace refuses to be impressed by Harry's charisma and good looksshe has known him too long and too well.But Grace hadn't counted on her heart completely overruling her head. However hard she tries, she cannot stay away from her rogue partner. Working closely together,Grace and Harry finally give in to temptation. Could Grace be the woman to finally capture his heart once and for all?
Were just your average, run-of-the-mill GPs surgery, and I find it very hard to understand why Harry would offer to work here. So you tell me whats in it for Harry?
The pleasure of your company?
Grace spun around when a familiar voice cut into the conversation. She spotted Harry lounging in the doorway. It had been some time since shed seen him, but hed changed very little from what she could tell. As her eyes skimmed over the coal-black hair, the marine-blue eyes, the clean-cut jaw, she couldnt stop the appreciative flutter her nerves gave, a warning that she was as susceptible as any woman to Harry Shaws undeniable charms.
Dear Reader (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801),
Some books demand to be written and others require a little more time for the story to develop. The Woman Hes Been Waiting For falls into the latter category.
I first had the idea for this book three years ago and sat down to write it with great enthusiasm. However, although I loved Harry and Grace from the moment they appeared on the page, I just couldnt make them behave the way I wanted them to. They are both such determined characters that they insisted on doing things their own way! In the end, I abandoned the book, but at the back of my mind I always knew that I would go back to it one day. Im glad that I did because it has turned out to be one of my very favorite stories.
Both Harry and Grace have a lot of baggage left over from their past lives, and they are both afraid to confront the main issue, which is that they are deeply attracted to each other. For years they have traded insults in an attempt to disguise their feelings but when they agree to work together to help a mutual friend, they are finally forced to acknowledge how they feel about one another.
It isnt an easy processthey have an extremely rough ride along the way! However, I felt when I reached the end of the book that they had found the happiness they both deserved.
I hope you enjoy reading their story as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Love,
Jennifer
The Woman Hes Been Waiting For
Jennifer Taylor
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
CONTENTS
Cover (#u5194bb3c-7cb4-5f64-98b9-1eae5a65ca7d)
Dear Reader (#uef26f4c0-263e-57d2-9443-0489412ba5ac)
Title Page (#u995a3fab-668b-5e06-bdcd-d539bf949954)
CHAPTER ONE (#u7033ad08-def0-581d-b67b-6f75415c9276)
CHAPTER TWO (#u304f7700-bb2a-5e62-978d-edcb52f3a19f)
CHAPTER THREE (#ub18f1838-1bb4-5910-8f68-e3d08d7c3380)
CHAPTER FOUR (#ubf398c96-37c7-5139-8316-8ca0866cd17c)
CHAPTER FIVE (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SIX (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER EIGHT (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER NINE (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER TEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER ELEVEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER TWELVE (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER THIRTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER FOURTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER FIFTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SIXTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
CHAPTER ONE (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
WHAT do you mean Harry Shaw has offered to work here?
Dr Grace Kennedy couldnt conceal her astonishment as she rounded on her partner, Miles Farrington. It was the end of a particularly stressful week at Ferndale Surgery and she and Miles had been trying to come up with a solution to their latest crisis when he had dropped his bombshell. Not only had their locum upped and left on New Years Eve without giving them notice but yesterday their practice nurse had tripped and broken her ankle.
It would be some while before Alison was fit to return to work. In the meantime, they would have to manage without a nurse because they would never be able to find a replacement at this time of the year. There were a lot of reasons, in fact, why Grace was in no mood to play silly games.
The same Harry Shaw who once said that only people without ambition went into general practice? Oh, this has to be a joke, Miles, please.
I dont recall Harry saying that about general practice Miles broke off when Grace glared at him. Harry was probably winding you up. You know what hes like. Anyway, he phoned me last night to say that he was in the area so I invited him round for a drink and just happened to mention the problems we were having during the course of the conversation. I was as surprised as you are when he offered his services, but you have to admit it would be the ideal solution. Oh, I know that you and Harry didnt exactly hit it off at med school
And whose fault was that? Grace paced across the room then swung round and scowled at her partner. Harry Shaw was a complete waste of space, in my opinion. The only thing he was interested in was seeing how many women he could sweet-talk into his bed.
Mmm, he did have rather an effect on the ladies, Miles observed admiringly. He cleared his throat when he saw Graces expression darken. But, all that aside, you have to admit that Harry was one of the brightest students in our year. It was the same during our pre-reg training when we were at Leeds together. It was Harry who was tipped for great things and hes achieved them, too. You must have followed his progress over the years, surely?
Grace ignored the question. She had no intention of admitting that shed been keeping tabs on Harry. To be frank, she wasnt sure why shed bothered when she disliked the wretched man so much. Maybe it had been a way to prove to herself that she didnt care about professional glory and only wanted to do her job to the very best of her ability, but she could have recited Harrys CV from memory: the youngest consultant ever appointed to a post; Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians; member of the new government health service advisory committee
Then why does he want to work here? Grace blanked out the rest of Harrys glittering rsum because it really wasnt relevant. She fixed Miles with a look that made him squirm but she refused to feel guilty. Once Miles got an idea into his head, it was difficult to make him see sense, but there was no way that she was going to agree to his latest proposal.
Just look at the facts, Miles. We run a very busy rural practice here. We dont take private patients and we certainly dont have any VIPs on our list. Were just your average, run-of-the-mill GPs surgery and I find it hard to understand why Harry would offer to work here. So you tell me, whats in it for Harry?
The pleasure of your company?
Grace spun round when a familiar voice cut into the conversation. Her mouth thinned when she spotted Harry lounging in the doorway. It had been some time since shed seen him but hed changed very little from what she could tell. As her eyes skimmed over the coal-black hair, the marine-blue eyes, the clean-cut jaw, she couldnt stop the appreciative flutter her nerves gave, a warning that she was as susceptible as any woman to Harry Shaws undoubted charms. The difference was that she knew what he was really like and she wasnt about to be taken in by good looks and a nice line in chat.
Im flattered, Harry. Or I would be if I was fool enough to believe you. She treated him to a chilly smile which wavered when she saw the expression that crossed his face. Good heavens, surely Harrys feelings hadnt been hurt by that remark.
Harry, good to see you again. I was beginning to wonder if youd got lost. Im hopeless at giving people directions, Im afraid. Miles leapt to his feet and rushed across the room to greet him.
Grace dismissed that fanciful notion when she realised what her partner had said. She looked accusingly at him as he led Harry over to the desk. You never mentioned that youd invited Harry here tonight.
Didnt I? Purely an oversight, I assure you. Miles fussed around, fetching a chair and taking Harrys overcoat. He hung it on the peg behind the door then looked pleadingly at Grace. I know we havent had time to discuss this, but you know as well as I do that we desperately need help. Ive been onto the agency every single day this week about hiring another locum but they simply havent got anyone on their books willing to relocate at this time of the year. Nobody wants to spend the winter months in such a remote part of the country, apparently.
So what youre saying is that its Harry or nothing, Grace said sweetly.
Well, I wouldnt put it quite like that, Miles blustered in embarrassment, although Harry didnt seem the least perturbed by her bluntness.
Why not, if its true? He clapped Miles on the shoulder then smiled at Grace. A bit of a dilemma for you, isnt it? Its a choice between letting me loose on your patients or going under. Id find it very difficult to choose in your shoes, too, Gracie.
Dont call me that. She sat down behind her desk and glared at him. You know how I hate stupid nicknames.
Sorry.
He didnt sound sorry but short of making a fuss and thereby letting him think hed scored a point, there was nothing she could do about it. She smiled up at him, her grey eyes colder than the January sky outside the consulting-room window. Apology accepted. So shall we start from the beginning? Why have you offered to work here when you made it abundantly clear in the past what you thought about general practice?
Because you and Miles need a helping hand.
Harry sat down and crossed one long leg over the other as he waited for her next sally. Grace wasnt fool enough to go rushing in unprepared, however. She took the time to study him instead.
He was as impeccably dressed as ever, she noted sourly, the black suit he was wearing obviously not something hed picked up off the peg. Hed teamed it with a pale blue shirt and a jaunty red and blue silk tie that must have cost a small fortune, but, then, money had never been a problem for Harry because his family was loaded. Harry was used to having the best of everything and it showed.
By contrast, poor Miles looked even more dishevelled than usual. Miles had been struggling to cope since his wife, Penny, had found out last month that she was pregnant. Penny had lost a baby only the previous year and they were both desperate that she didnt lose this one, so Miles had insisted that Penny must do as little as possible during the first trimester. However, it had put him under even more pressure and it was starting to show.
Grace knew that Miles had been doing far too much, but there was little she could do to help when her own workload seemed to be increasing on an almost daily basis. The truth was that the practice was getting far too big for the two of them to manage. Maybe it wouldnt be that bad, having Harry here, if it gave them a respite, she conceded grudgingly.
How about a cup of coffee? Miles suggested, jumping up. He rubbed his chest and grimaced. Thatll teach me to bolt my lunch. Ive had indigestion all afternoon. Id better take some antacids while Im at it.
Dont go to any trouble on my account, Harry said easily. Ill be having dinner when I get back to the hotel.
Oh, its no trouble. Anyway, it will give you and Grace a chance to talk and see if you can reach a compromise. Miles turned to her and Grace could see the beseeching look in his eyes. Just dont say no before youve had time to think about the idea.
Grace didnt say anything. She didnt want to upset Miles but neither was she prepared to be pushed into a decision she might come to regret. She waited until the door had closed before she turned to Harry again.
All right, Im willing to admit that having you here would be a big help at the moment, but how come you happen to have so much free time on your hands? The last I heard youd been appointed to some new government health committee. Id have thought you would have had enough to do with that on top of your job at St Theresas.
St Theresas has been undergoing a major refurbishment programme for the past two years. Obviously, we couldnt close the whole hospital while the work was being done so weve had to shut each department in turn. He shrugged. Its our turn at the moment, so it seemed like the ideal opportunity to take some of the time I had owing to me.
It wont be much of a holiday if you end up working here, she pointed out.
Oh, I dont know. They say that a change is as good as a rest, dont they? he quipped, tipping back his chair and grinning at her.
It was the sort of smile that Grace had seen him bestow dozens of times before on some poor unsuspecting woman or other, but if Harry thought he could turn on the charm and get her to agree to his proposal, he was mistaken. Harry never did anything unless it furthered his own interests and she wasnt about to let him fob her off with any nonsense.
I cant see any point in trying to have a sensible discussion if thats your attitude. She went to stand up then stopped when Harry leant across the desk. Her heart jolted when she saw how serious he looked. Normally, Harry treated life as a huge joke just there for his enjoyment and it was unsettling to see this other side of him for once.
Im sorry. I know how you feel about me, Grace. I should do because youve always made it perfectly clear that you doubted my motives. So to answer your question properly, I happened to be in the area on business rather than on holiday. Working here for a couple of weeks wont spoil my plans one little bit.
He didnt explain what sort of business had brought him all the way to Cumbria and Grace didnt ask. What Harry did was of little interest to her, except where it impinged on her own life, of course.
I see. Now that your business has been concluded, you have some free time on your hands. Her brows rose steeply when he nodded. Thats very altruistic of you, Harry. Not many people would offer to give up their time off like this.
I just want to help. Miles told me about your locum leaving and what had happened to your practice nurse. You might feel that you can cope, Grace, but Miles obviously doesnt share your confidence. Quite frankly, he sounded as though hed reached the end of his tether last night. Its obvious the two of you are under a tremendous amount of pressure and I think you need to take that into account before you turn me down.
I dont need you to remind me about the pressure were under, she snapped, because Harry had touched a nerve. Although she and Miles shared the responsibility of running the practice, she couldnt ignore the fact that Miles had the added worry of Penny to contend with. Not for the first time Grace found herself thinking how fortunate she was not to have to worry about anyone else. She was single out of choice and happy with her life.
Or she was most of the time.
She wasnt sure where that qualification had sprung from and quickly dismissed it. Thoughts like that would only clutter up her mind and that could prove disastrous when dealing with Harry. She sat down again and treated him to a look that was meant to prove she was in control of the situation. The problem was that Harry looked so worried that she couldnt help feeling alarmed, too.
Im not trying to start an argument with you, Grace. It might surprise you to learn that I didnt come here tonight for a fight. I came because I was worried about Miles. Have you looked at him recently?
Of course I have. I see him nearly every day of the week. What kind of a stupid question is that?
I mean really looked at him. Harry sat back in his chair and regarded her thoughtfully. His blue eyes were so intent that Grace found it impossible to look away.
I didnt realise there were different ways of looking at people, she snapped, because he was making her feel really uncomfortable now.
She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear then realised what she was doing. She wasnt going to start worrying about how she looked because of Harry. No way, not in a million years. So what if she was wearing her oldest sweaterthe one with the worn patches on the elbowsand a skirt that should have been sent to the charity shop months ago? And what did it matter if her nose was shiny and her hair needed brushing? Shed worked non-stop from the moment shed arrived that morning and shed been far too busy to worry about her appearance. Maybe Harry had the time to choose the perfect tie to go with his perfect shirt and perfect suit, but lesser mortals didnt.
She opened her mouth to tell Harry that only hed carried on speaking. Grace felt a tremor work its way from the tips of her toes to her knees when she heard what he was saying. She wanted to stop him but some perverse little imp inside her refused to coperate.
Theres dozens of ways of looking at people. It just depends who they are and what they mean to you. It also makes a difference how long its been since you saw them, too. Harry made a steeple with his fingers and studied her over the top of the spire. Take you, for instance, Grace. It must be almost a year since we last saw each other and you look very different now from what you did then. Your hair is shorter for starters and although it suits you, I have to say that I think its a shame youve had it cut because that caramel-brown colour is so unusual. Youve also lost weight. Not a lot, granted, but youre definitely slimmer.
Thank you, Harry. I think youve made your point now.
Grace brusquely cut him off. She couldnt explain it, but the fact that Harry had noticed the changes in her appearance made her feel very odd indeed. It was as though he was seeing her as a woman for the first time and she couldnt pretend that it didnt make her feel extremely conscious of her own femininity all of a sudden.
Then you understand what Im getting at, dont you? Mercifully, Harry seemed unaware of her dilemma as he continued. You see Miles every day so you probably havent noticed the change in him, but I was shocked when I saw him last night. To be honest, I almost didnt recognise him at first. He looks like hes aged five years in the past twelve months.
Its been tough for Miles this past year, Grace conceded. She sighed when Harrys brows rose. She could hardly refuse to explain that comment. Anyway, it might divert his interest away from her and that would be a blessing.
I dont suppose Im betraying any confidences because Miles has never made any secret of the fact that he and Penny have been having problems, she said quickly, not sure why she was so sensitive all of a sudden. She and Harry had traded enough insults to sink a fleet of battleships over the years and she couldnt imagine why she should have been so alarmed by his comments.
Problems. You dont mean with their marriage, do you?
Harry sounded so shocked by the suggestion that she looked at him in surprise. Of course not. Their marriage is rock solid and theyre really happy together. Everything would be perfect, in fact, if they could just have the family theyre both longing for, but Pennys had problems conceiving. She had a miscarriage last year so now that shes pregnant again, Miles is taking no chances. Hes insisted that she must rest as much as possible, but that means hes been trying to do everything himself.
Not easy when youre so busy here, Harry agreed soberly. He sighed, his handsome face looking unaccustomedly sad. Its such a shame. Miles and Penny are the kind of people who make you want to believe in all that happily-ever-after nonsense. So many marriages fail that its nice to see a couple actually making a go of it.
I never thought youd be an advocate for marriage, Grace observed tartly, to hide her surprise. Shed never expected to hear Harry expounding on the joys of matrimony. It simply didnt go with the image she had of him and it was unsettling to think that she might have to adjust her ideas.
Oh, Im a great believer in the institution of marriage, he declared. So long as I dont have to get personally involved in promoting it as a lifestyle choice then Im more than happy to give it my vote.
Typical, Grace snorted. Why would you want to spoil your fun by making a commitment to one woman when you can have your pick from dozens? Im just surprised you found the time to come here tonight, Harry, when you could be using it so much more productively.
Oh, the night is young yet and theres plenty of time left forpleasure.
His deep voice lingered on the last word and the tiny hairs on the back of Graces neck sprang to attention. She had a sudden and far too vivid mental picture of how Harry might pleasure the latest woman in his life, so she quickly stood up. Harry might be prepared to sit here and play these silly games but she wasnt going to play them with him.
How very nice for you. Now, if youll excuse me, Id like to have a word with Miles before I make my decision.
Of course. But take your time, Grace, and really think about what youre doing. Id hate you to turn down my offer and then regret it.
Harry stood up as she came round the desk and she was forced to stop. He was several inches taller than she was so that she had to tip back her head to look at him. Maybe it was that which made her feel so vulnerable all of a sudden.
I want you to be sure in your own heart, Grace, that you really dont want me here.
Harry knew he shouldnt tease Grace like that but it was hard to resist when she always rose so sweetly to his baiting. He hid his smile as he watched a dozen different expressions cross her face. She was trying to decide whether she should ignore him or tear a strip off him, and he realised with a sudden flash of insight that he didnt mind which it was. Fighting with Grace was a whole lot more fun than making love had been with many of the women hed dated over the past few years.
The thought caught him unawares so it was a relief when Grace swept past him without uttering a word. Harry went to the window after shed left, wondering where the idea had sprung from. Grace Kennedy had been a pain in the butt ever since hed met her on their first day at Oxford together. Shed taken an instant dislike to him and had never once missed the opportunity to goad him since then.
Harry had found himself responding in kind even though hed known he should try to rise above such childish behaviour. It was just that Graces remarks had seemed to prick harder and more painfully than anyone elses had done. Shed been one of the top students in their year so hed told himself that it was competitiveness that had caused the problem: Grace had resented the fact that he was every bit as talented as she was and that was why shed given him hell, and it had become a point of honour that he should retaliate. Now he found himself wondering if there was another reason why theyd kept up the sparring for all these years. Was it possible that he and Grace were attracted to each other?
He groaned. It was obviously a night for stupid thoughts. He didnt seriously imagine that Grace found him attractive. They argued because she neither liked nor trusted him, and because he refused to do anything to improve her opinion of him. It made him see how difficult it would be for them to work together in such circumstances. It wouldnt help poor Miles if he and Grace were constantly at odds.
He sighed as he stared across the empty car park. It was a blow to face that fact, when hed thought that hed found the ideal solution to his problems as well as Miless. Hed never got around to telling Miles last night the reason why he was in Cumbria. Miles had been so stressed that he hadnt found the right moment to broach the subject, which was ironic, really, because this new health service committee hed been appointed to had been set up specifically to find ways to relieve the pressure on rural GPs.
Harry had spoken to dozens of general practitioners over the past few weeks, but he still hadnt been able to get a true picture of all the problems they faced. Few people liked to admit they couldnt cope and GPs were no different to anyone else in that respect. Hed been hoping to get some truthful answers out of Miles, but once hed learned about the difficulties his friend was experiencing, Harry had realised it was the opportunity he needed. If he offered to work at the surgery then not only would he be helping Miles but hed be able to experience the pressures at first hand.
Hed decided to talk to Miles and Grace about it that evening, but now he could see how pointless it would be. Although he was confident that Miles would agree to his proposal, Grace certainly wouldnt. Shed probably see it as a slight on the way they ran the practice and the last thing Harry wanted was to create a rift between the two partners. All things considered, it might be better if he told Miles that hed changed his mind.
Can you phone for an ambulance?
Grace came rushing back into the room. Harry felt his heart sink when he saw the expression on her face. Whats wrong? he demanded as he watched her wrench open a cupboard door.
Its Miles. I th-think h-hes having a heart attack.
Her voice caught and she bit her lip. Harry could see that her hands were shaking as she tried to take a syringe out of the box. He hurried across the room and took it from her then looked around.
Drugs?
In that steel cabinet in the corner. Heres the keys.
She handed him a bunch of keys. Harry took them and quickly unlocked the cupboard. You phone for an ambulance while I sort this out, he instructed, checking through the vials until he found what he needed.
Oh, but
For heavens sake, Grace, dont waste time arguing. Just do it.
He didnt wait to see how she took that: there wasnt time. He left her in the office and ran along the corridor, cursing under his breath because hed forgotten to ask her where he would find Miles. Fortunately, there were only three other doors leading off the corridor and he found Miles propped up against the sink unit in the staffroom.
Hows it going, old man? Harry asked, dropping to his knees beside him.
Ive had better days, Miles muttered, clutching his chest.
Ill bet you have. Harry quickly rolled up his friends shirtsleeve and swabbed his arm then slid the needle into his vein. There. That should ease the pain in a moment or two so lets take a look at you.
He took hold of Miless wrist and checked his pulse. It was a little fast but strong enough, and he smiled encouragingly at him. Well, the old tickers still working away, youll be pleased to hear.
Nice to know Im not dead yet, Miles replied with a brave stab at humour.
Oh, theres plenty of life in the old dog yet, Harry said airily, hoping he wasnt tempting fate.
He carried on with his examination, looking for all the usual signs he would expect to find in a case of myocardial infarction, things like shortness of breath, sweating and an absence of colour in the skin. Miles was exhibiting all of those symptoms, worryingly enough, so Harry was relieved when Grace appeared to tell him the ambulance was on its way.
Good. Hospitals the best place for you, he declared as Grace knelt down beside them. She lent forward to loosen the collar of Miless shirt and Harry sucked in his breath when he felt a stab of awareness hit him squarely in the gut as her shoulder brushed against his chest.
He hastily stood up. The last thing he needed was for his mind to start playing those tricks again. He didnt fancy Grace any more than she fancied him. The pattern of their relationship had been set years ago and this definitely wasnt the time to start altering it. He adopted a deliberately neutral expression when she glanced up because he didnt intend to make the mistake of handing her any ammunition to use against him in the future.
The ambulance should be here soon but Im worried they might not be able to find us, she explained anxiously. Its really dark at this end of the village and Id hate them to miss the turning and drive straight past.
Ill go and wait by the gates so I can flag them down, Harry offered, relieved to have something to do. You stay here and look after Miles.
Thanks, Harry. That would be a real help. I appreciate it.
It was the first time Harry could remember her ever speaking to him with any warmth in her voice. As he left the kitchen, he found himself marvelling at the effect itd had. He wanted to leap up and punch the air as though hed scored a major victory, although he had no idea why. Grace had merely treated him on a par with everyone else. Shed spoken to him as a normal human being instead of as her worst enemy. Why that should be a cause for celebration, he couldnt imagine.
He left the surgery and headed down the drive. It was a bitterly cold night and his overcoat was still hanging on the back of the consulting-room door, but he never noticed the discomfort. His head seemed to be whirling, thoughts spinning around inside it like the bits of coloured glass whizzing about inside that kaleidoscope hed had as a kid. One thought suddenly caught and took shape.
Sparring with Grace had been a lot of fun, but what would it be like if they could talk to each other and discover all the things they had in common?
The idea dissolved before he could attempt to deal with it and another took its place.
And if they did achieve a degree of harmony, then wouldnt it be a shame to stop there? After all, Grace was a beautiful woman and hed never denied that, so wouldnt it be great if they could establish a more intimate relationship
The wail of a siren came as a blessing in more ways than one. As he flagged down the ambulance, Harry felt like a condemned man must feel on receiving a last-minute pardon. He had no idea what was prompting all these crazy thoughts but one thing was certain: he and Grace would never have that kind of a relationship.
CHAPTER TWO (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
WHY doesnt someone come and tell us whats happening?
These things take time, Penny, so try not to worry. Theyll let us know how Miles is just as soon as they can.
Grace put a comforting arm around Pennys shoulders but the long wait was taking its toll on her, too. She glanced at her watch and sighed when she realised that over an hour had passed since Miles had been admitted to the emergency department of their local hospital. Shed travelled in the ambulance with him while Harry had gone to fetch Penny. Hed seemed to take it for granted that he would stay with them, and Grace had to admit that shed been glad of his support. Harry seemed to have the knack of knowing the right thing to say to calm Penny down so now she glanced at him and raised her brows.
Grace is right, sweetheart. You must try not to worry. Harry obviously took the hint because he got up and came over to them. You know how long it takes to get a heart tracing and do all the bloods and everything else.
I know, and Im sorry, but its just so hard to sit here when I dont even know if MilesIf heshes. Penny stopped and gulped, unable to give voice to her very worst fears.
If anything awful had happened to Miles, theyd have come and told you. Harry crouched down and took hold of Pennys hands. You remember the drill, dont you? You should do because you were an A and E nurse for long enough. You inform the relatives immediately if its bad news. Its one of the unwritten rules.
I remember, Penny whispered, dredging up a smile. Its just so different when youre the one waiting to hear something.
I know, sweetheart, but you must try to be strong for Miles and for your baby.
He leant forward and kissed Pennys cheek. Grace felt a lump come to her throat. This wasnt Harry Shaw using his legendary charm to his own ends but a bona fide show of concern, and there was no denying that it had touched her deeply to witness it.
Ill try. Thank you, Harry. And you, too, Grace. Penny took hold of Graces hand and placed it on top of Harrys. You two are the best. I dont know what Id have done without you both tonight.
Graces heartbeat quickened when she felt the warmth of Harrys hand beneath her palm. She desperately wanted to pull away but she didnt want to risk upsetting Penny. She sat quite still, praying that Harry couldnt feel how fast her pulse was racing. This is just a moment of friendship, she told herself firmly. Penny needs it to help her through this difficult time. However, it was hard to focus on that thought when she was so conscious of the warmth of Harrys flesh beneath her own. It was a relief when a nurse appeared because it meant that she could quite legitimately break the contact.
Mrs Farrington? The nurse smiled as Penny hastily identified herself. You can see your husband now.
Is he all right? Penny demanded, jumping to her feet.
Hes fine. Dr Williams will explain everything if youll just follow me.
Yes, of course. Penny hurried to the door then paused and looked back. Will you stay? I know its late but I dont think I can face being here on my own.
Well be right here, waiting for you, Penny, Grace assured her. She let out a sigh of relief after the door closed. Doesnt sound as though the prognosis is too grim. Do you think Miles really did have an infarc?
Its hard to say for certain without seeing the ECG tracings, Harry replied, going over to the coffee-machine. It could have been an angina attack, I suppose. The symptoms are very similar.
Mmm, you could be right. Grace frowned as she considered that possibility. Miles is rather young to be suffering from angina, although its not unknown. Most patients are in their fifties when they first exhibit any symptoms but there are cases of men as young as thirty being diagnosed with angina.
Its not just confined to men either. More and more women are presenting with angina nowadays, Harry observed, feeding coins into the machine.
Thats true. Women are having more heart attacks than they used to. Its all down to a change in lifestyle and the fact that people are eating more convenience food and not taking enough exercise. She sighed. I try to drum it into our patients that they need to exercise and watch their diet, but they just think Im nagging.
Until they have a heart attack and realise that you were telling them the truth all along. Harry handed her a cup of tepid coffee and sat down. Then theyre desperate to undo all the years of neglect.
Something like that, she agreed, sipping the coffee and grimacing at the powdery aftertaste it left on her tongue. She put the cup on the table and looked at him. How come youre so clued up about heart disease?
Because its all part and parcel of being a physician. Harry took a swallow of his coffee then sighed. If I had a pound for every man and woman Ive seen heading for a heart attack, Id be able to retire. What is it about people that makes them ignore all the advice we give them and carry on doing the wrong things?
Stubbornness? she suggested with a grin because he sounded so frustrated. Folk hate to be told what to do. They want to live their lives the way they chose to.
And to hell with the consequences. His tone was wry. Only, when something does go wrong, they expect us to come up with a solution.
I dont know why you sound so surprised. Didnt you realise that were supposed to perform miracles? Its part of our remit, along with all the other things a doctor is supposed to do.
Well, I for one am right out of miracles, Harry declared, swinging his feet onto the coffee-table. Im only a humble physician, dont forget, not a surgeon. Its the surgeons who are closest to God, not the likes of you and me.
Grace burst out laughing. I never thought Id hear you admit that. I thought you believed that you had a direct line to heaven.
Sorry to disappoint you but Im under no illusions. He lifted the cup to his lips, watching her over the rim. Im just a guy who wants to help people, Grace. Thats all Ive ever been.
Grace felt a shiver run down her spine and quickly looked away. She couldnt explain it, but there was something about the way Harry had said it that convinced her hed been telling the truth. Harry didnt see himself as some sort of all-powerful being but as a man who wanted to help others less fortunate than himself, and it was a revelation to realise it.
Shed had Harry summed up from the moment shed met him: a rich playboy whose only aim in life was to have a good time and cover himself in glory. Now that image had started to go all fuzzy around the edges and it was alarming to realise that she might have been wrong about him all this time. It was a relief when he changed the subject.
Anyway, getting back to Miles. Even if he hasnt had an infarc, its doubtful hell be fit enough to return to work for some time, so what are you going to do? My offer still stands, if youre interested.
Ill bear it in mind. Grace flushed when his brows rose. It was obvious that her less-than-enthusiastic response hadnt been lost on him. However, she didnt intend to apologise because she had reservations about him working at the surgery.
Id prefer to wait and see what the verdict is on Miles first before I decide what to do, she told him coolly.
Fine. Its up to you, of course. Harry drained his cup then swung his feet off the table and stood up. I think Ill go outside for a bit of fresh air. Its stifling in here. I wont be longten minutes max.
You dont have to stay, she said quickly, hoping he couldnt tell how eager she was all of a sudden for him to leave. Oh, it had been fine while Penny had been there, shed been very glad of Harrys company then. However, it was different now they were on their own. In the past half-hour shed learned things about him that shed never dreamed might be true, and it had unsettled her to have to adjust her view of him. How much more unsettling would it be if they continued the conversation throughout the night?
Why do I have a feeling that youre trying to get rid of me? Harry turned to look at her and Graces heart missed a beat when she saw the speculation in his eyes.
Ive no idea. She shrugged, hoping he couldnt tell how desperate she was for him to leave. Maybe its because you find it hard to believe that Ill be able to manage without your manly shoulder to lean on? Well, dont worry, Harry. Ill be perfectly fine on my own so you can leave with a clear conscience. Im sure you must have more interesting things to do with your evening than spend it hanging around a hospital waiting room.
The only plans I have for this evening involve bed. He laughed when he saw her mouth purse. Tut, tut, Grace, what are you thinking? I meant that I was planning on having an early nightalone. He opened the door and winked at her. Dont worry, Ill be back soon. You can count on it.
Grace ground her teeth, wishing that shed never said anything. All shed succeeded in doing had been to make herself look foolishnot that it was the first time, of course. Where Harry was concerned she invariably found herself saying the wrong thing, which was why she usually resorted to squabbling with him. It was easier to fight with him than run the risk of falling under his spell.
The thought alarmed her so much that she leapt to her feet. Her heart was pounding as she left the waiting room to go and find Penny because there was no way that she could deny the truth. In the past ten years shed done everything in her power to shut Harry out of her life. That was why shed lobbed insults at him, goaded him and accused him of all manner of things. Shed seen how charming he could be, how witty and how much fun, and shed been afraid that he would somehowwell, seduce her.
That was the last thing she wanted to happen. Shed witnessed at first hand how destructive love could be, had watched as her mothers life had been torn apart as her father had indulged in one affair after another, and shed sworn it would never happen to her. Thats why she rarely dated and never went out with any man who reminded her of her fathera man exactly like Harry, in fact. But tonight shed lowered her guard and Harry had been every bit as charming as shed feared he would be. Now she was unable to think of him simply as a womanising Lothario. There were depths to Harry that shed never suspected.
I get off at eleven so why dont you give me a call? Im a real night-owl and never go to bed until after midnightunless I have a really good reason, of course.
Grace stopped dead when she heard voices up ahead. She peered along the dimly lit corridor and spotted a couple tucked into the alcove next to the pay-phone. She recognised Harry immediately, although it took a moment longer before she realised that the young woman with him was the nurse whod come to fetch Penny. There were no prizes for guessing what they were up to, however.
Graces eyes narrowed as she studied their body language which, quite frankly, should have been X-rated. The way that young nurse was simpering up at Harry was positively obscene. As for Harrywell, he seemed to be lapping it up as though it was his due. Had he used the excuse that hed needed some fresh air so he could track down the nurse and make his move on her? Grace wondered in disgust. Well, if that was the case, she certainly wasnt going to cramp his style.
She spun round and marched back to the waiting room, slamming the door behind her with enough force to make the window rattle in its frame. She couldnt believe what a fool shed been. For a few minutes shed actually believed that shed been wrong about Harry, and the thought of how easily he had duped her made her want to spit tacks. Leopards never changed their spots. Harry Shaw had been a womanising Lothario when shed first met him, and he was exactly the same now.
Im not really sure whats happening tonight.
Harry tried to edge away but the nurse had effectively trapped him in the alcove. He glanced along the corridor when he heard a door slam, hoping that someone would come along and rescue him. However, his hopes were dashed when nobody appeared. He sighed under his breath. He would just have to extricate himself.
Ill probably end up staying here until all hours of the morning and I couldnt possibly expect you to wait up for my call.
He treated the girl to his most charming smile, desperately wishing that he didnt have this effect on women. Although it sounded arrogant to say so, it had always been the samethey fell for his looks and the fact that he was wealthy. While it had been fun when he had been younger, hed grown weary of being viewed merely as an object of their lust.
He wanted a proper relationship now, not the kind of shallow alliance that was based solely on sex. He wanted a relationship in which he could share his innermost thoughts and feelings. The kind of rapport, in fact, that hed enjoyed tonight with Grace before shed gone all prickly on him again.
The thought caught him completely off guard. Harry found himself floundering when the nurse asked if he had a pen so she could write down her telephone number for him. He gave it to her then waited in silence while she scribbled the number on a bit of paper and tucked it in his top pocket. Mercifully, the ward sister appeared at that point and summoned her back to work so he was able to make his escape, but he couldnt deny that he felt completely out of kilter as he made his way back to the waiting room.
Why did he keep having all these strange thoughts about Grace? Was it just the fact that shed treated him differently that nighttalked to him, laughed with him, behaved as though he wasnt the lowest form of pond life? He wasnt convinced that was the reason why he was behaving so strangely, but he felt unusually nervous as he went into the room.
Any news yet? he asked, striving for a measure of calm.
You tell me. Grace treated him to a smile so cold that it could have reversed the effects of global warming, and Harry frowned.
Whats that supposed to mean?
Work it out for yourself. It shouldnt be that difficult for an intelligent man like you, Harry.
She picked up a magazine and proceeded to ignore him as she flicked through its pages. Harry sighed because he really wasnt in the mood to play games with her at the moment.
Look, Grace, I apologise if Ive done something to upset you he began, but she didnt let him finish. Tossing the magazine onto the table, she glared at him.
I am not upset. If you want to chat up every single woman in this hospital then good luck to you. However, I do object to being told a pack of lies. If you wanted to go and find that nurse, why didnt you say so? Im hardly going to fall down in a heap because youre chatting up some woman.
So that was it. Harry felt a wave of relief wash over him. Grace must have seen him talking to that nurse and assumed hed engineered the meeting. He hastened to reassure her, even though he wasnt sure why it was so important that she knew what had really gone on.
I did go out for some fresh air. I just happened to bump into Cathy on my way back, thats all.
Oh, so its Cathy, is it? Obviously, you didnt waste any time getting acquainted with her.
Grace treated him to another of those icy smiles and he sighed again. It was obvious that she didnt believe he was the innocent party.
Just because I know her name doesnt mean that your allegations are true, he pointed out in his most reasonable tone. It happened exactly as I told you. I was coming back inside when she stopped me. He shrugged. I couldnt just ignore her, could I?
Of course not. I mean, it would have been unthinkable to tell her that you were far too worried about your friend to think about youruhother needs.
Her voice dripped with scorn and Harry gritted his teeth. It took a massive effort of will to damp down his anger, but he really and truly didnt want to fight with her right now.
Was that what she was trying to do? he wondered. Poke and prod at him until he retaliated? He sensed it was true yet he couldnt understand why she would do such a thing. Unless she was afraid that if they didnt argue, she might be forced to admit that she was jealous of the attention hed been paying the other woman.
The thought was so mind-bogglingly complicated that he didnt know how to handle it. He was still struggling, in fact, when the door opened and Penny appeared. Grace jumped up, ignoring him as she led Penny to a chair and sat her down.
How is Miles? she demanded, sitting beside her.
Much better than I feared. Penny gave them a wobbly smile. Theyre fairly sure that he suffered an angina attack rather than a full-blown myocardial infarction. The resting ECG tracing shows no sign of damage to his heart but they want to do more tests tomorrowget Miles onto the treadmill to see how his heart responds during exercise. The consultant I spoke to seems fairly confident that it was a coronary artery spasm, though.
Probably brought on by the pressure that Miles has been under recently, Harry observed, relieved to have something to focus on other than what Grace might or might not be thinking. Lets face it, Miles has been running himself ragged of late. It was just a matter of time before something like this happened.
I know, and thats why Im determined that hes going to have a complete rest. Penny took a deep breath then looked at him and Grace. I know you two have had your differences in the past, but if you could just put them aside for now, you could actually be saving Miless life. He needs complete rest and the only way hell get it is if he knows the practice is being taken care of. I know its a lot to ask, but do you think you two could manage to work together for the next couple of weeks?
CHAPTER THREE (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
HARRY knew that if Penny had asked him that question a couple of hours ago, he wouldnt have hesitated. He would have told her quite emphatically that there wouldnt be a problem. Now he was no longer sure if it was the truth. Could he really imagine himself working with Grace when just a few hours of her company had caused such an upheaval in his life?
Iumwell he stumbled as his usual composure deserted him.
I wouldnt ask if I wasnt desperate. There were tears in Pennys eyes now as she looked up at him. I just cant bear to think of anything happening to Miles, especially now.
She laid her hand protectively on her stomach and Harry knew he was sunk. How could he turn his back on his two oldest friends when they needed his help so desperately? He wouldnt be able to live with himself if anything happened to Miles or this precious baby, so he would have to agree and simply hope that he and Grace could get through the coming weeks relatively unscathed.
He turned to Grace, praying that she couldnt tell how uneasy he felt at the thought of their forthcoming alliance. Im willing to give it a shot if you are. He held out his hand. So, shall we call a truce?
An expression which looked almost like panic crossed her face before she quickly stood up. All right. Im willing to meet you halfway, if it means were helping Miles and Penny.
Harry smiled wryly. It hadnt been panic at all, but Grace being her usual cautious self. It was typical of her to qualify her agreement like that, to make sure he knew that she was accepting his offer purely for the sake of their friends. She would never admit to any sign of weakness in front of him, never acknowledge that she, too, would benefit from his help in the surgery. She would never give an inch if it meant he might gain any ground, and maybe it was that thought that made him decide to seal their agreement with more than the customary handshake. The thought of getting a little further under Graces skin was oddly appealing.
He took her outstretched hand but instead of shaking it, as shed expected him to do, he pulled her towards him and kissed her on the cheek. Sealed with a kiss. Theres no going back on our pact now, Grace.
He let her go, hoping she couldnt tell the effect the kiss had had on him. It was his own fault for trying to goad her, but it had been ages since hed felt this stirring in his blood, so long, in fact, that hed begun to wonder if it would ever happen again. Yet all it had taken had been the touch of his lips against her skin and he was all fired up and raring to go. What was happening to him? Did he fancy Grace, or was he going completely crazy?
I wouldnt dream of going back on a promise, Grace said stiffly. She turned to Penny, trying to resist the urge to run her hand over her cheek. She could feel the lingering warmth of Harrys lips making her skin tingle and longed to erase it, but there was no way that she was going to let him think that the kiss had had any effect on her.
It looks as though your problem has been solved, Penny. Now theres no excuse for Miles not to follow his consultants advice.
And I intend to make sure he follows it to the letter. Penny stood up and hugged her. Thank you so much, Grace. And you, too, Harry. I cant tell you how grateful I am to you both.
Dont mention it. Harry treated them to one of his most charming smiles, the kind of smile that normally made Grace grind her teeth. The fact that she didnt feel like grinding them now just increased her anxiety. What on earth was going on? Why did she feel all warm and sort ofbreathless just because Harry was smiling at her? She was still trying to work out the answer when he opened the waiting-room door.
I wont be long. Theres something I need to do before we leave.
Hmm, that something wouldnt have anything to do with a pretty blonde nurse whos been extolling your virtues to all and sundry, would it? Penny laughed when he looked suitably modest. You never change, Harry. Youll still have women queuing up outside your door when youre ninety.
With a bit of luck.
He winked at them then left, and it was a good job he went when he did. Grace knew that if hed stayed there even a second longer, she would have been tempted to throw something at him. Maybe Penny found his womanising antics amusing but she thought they were pathetic.
Grace, whats wrong? Are you feeling all right?
She jumped when Penny touched her on the arm, and dredged up a smile when she saw the concern on her friends face. Im fine.
Are you sure? Penny looked increasingly worried despite the reassurance. I shouldnt have done that, should I? I know how you feel about Harry and it was wrong of me to force you into a corner like that.
You didnt force me, Penny. It was my decision and Im perfectly happy with it. Grace held her smile, although it felt as though her face was about to split into two. However, she had to convince Penny that she was telling the truth, otherwise her friend would continue to worry.
Harry and I are both grown-ups and we can handle working together without World War Three breaking out. In fact, Im rather looking forward to it.
You are? Penny looked at her in surprise.
Mmm. Harrys got bags of experience and Ill learn a lot from him, Grace assured her, hoping the words wouldnt choke her.
Yes, of course you will, although it wont be all one-sided, Penny said loyally. Youre a brilliant doctor in your own right, Grace, so I expect Harry will learn just as much from you.
Grace didnt say anything to that. However, as she followed Penny from the room so they could go and tell Miles the good news, she found herself wondering exactly what she had in her repertoire of skills which would be of interest to Harry. There certainly wasnt anything on the romance front that she could teach himhe was an acknowledged expert in that field. As for her medical skills, well, he could probably match her any day of the week.
No, the only thing she could possibly teach him was humility, although it was a lesson the mighty Harry Shaw might not be keen to learn. When youve been at the top of the heap all your life, thinking that you are the same as everyone else wouldnt come easily, although that wasnt what Harry had claimed earlier that night. Hed described himself as a man who just wanted to help others, hadnt he?
Grace shivered. She couldnt explain it, certainly couldnt understand it, but she knew the assertion had altered the way she thought about Harry. It was as though there was suddenly something in the plus column to weigh against all those minuses that had accumulated over the years. Although she hated to admit it, Harry might not be all bad after all.
Ive done a printout of all the clinics we hold each month. I thought it would help if you had an idea of our schedule.
Thanks.
Harry took the list from Grace and glanced through it. His brows rose when he suddenly realised the extent of the work she and Miles had been doing. Nearly every single afternoon was filled with things like the mother-and-baby clinics, antenatal clinics and clinics for people who were trying to stop smoking or lose weight. Add all of those to the regular morning and evening surgeries and it seemed his life was going to be extremely full for the next few weeks.
You certainly offer a very complete service here, he observed, leaning back in his chair. It was just gone eight a.m. and they were in Miless officethe office Harry would be using while he was working there. Although it had been after midnight when hed dropped Grace off at her house in the village, she had telephoned him before seven that morning to ask him if he would meet her at the surgery.
Harry had agreed immediately, even though hed been fast asleep when shed phoned. However, it had seemed like a point of honour not to let the side down so he had dragged himself out of bed and into the shower, and, by skipping breakfast, had managed to get to the surgery a couple of minutes before shed arrived. He could have murdered for a cup of coffee but hed be damned if he would show any sign of weakness by suggesting they should stop for a drink. If Grace could keep up this punishing schedule then so could he.
We do our best to fulfil all our patients needs, she said briskly, taking another sheet of paper out of her file. This is a list of our contacts at the local hospital. Obviously, you can request an appointment for a patient through the usual channels, but we find it speeds things up if we approach the head of each department on a personal basis. She shrugged. A phone call is all it usually takes so it doesnt require that much extra effort.
It must add up, though. Harry frowned as he took the sheet from her. I know how difficult it is to get hold of people so I doubt one phone call would do it. You must have to phone back several times.
Miles and I tend to make any phone calls after morning surgery finishes. That way we can catch people during their lunch-break and keep to our timetable.
I see. Harry didnt say anything else as he placed the list on top of the other one. He was there to help, not to question how the practice was run. Nevertheless, he couldnt help thinking that it was no wonder Miles was so stressed when he was cramming so much into his day. Morning surgeries, evening surgeries, clinics, phone callshe wouldnt have time to draw breath.
How long do you allow for each consultation? he asked, opting for a less controversial topic.
We allocate ten minutes per patient, more if its someone we know we will have to spend extra time with.
Thats quite generous, he observed, recalling what other GPs had told him recently. Most practices allow six minutes per patient and try to get away with less than that if they can.
We find its a false economy to cut corners. If you dont spend time getting to the root of a problem, invariably the patient ends up having to come back to see you.
Its a valid point, although I suppose it depends on how many patients you book in for each surgery, he conceded, making a note to add it to his report. If more time was spent at the initial assessment stage then a second appointment might be avoided, and that was bound to be of help to an overworked GP. Whats your maximum number of appointments per session?
We dont have a set limit. Both morning and evening surgeries are run on an open-door basisin other words, if someone needs to see us they just turn up on the day.
But thats crazy. You could have the whole village turning up and have to see them.
I doubt it. Most people around here are too busy to waste their time by making unnecessary trips to see the doctor. She shrugged. We find it works so I see no reason to change the routine. But if you find the pace too much for you, you only have to say so. I can deal with any patients you arent able to see.
I am more than happy to do my share of the work, he said flatly. He knew that she was trying to goad him but he wasnt going to fall into that trap again. No matter what Grace said or did from now on, he wasnt going to rise to the bait.
Then we wont have a problem, will we? She stood up and came around the desk, pausing as she drew level with him. Is there anything else you need to know? I think Ive covered more or less everything to do with the day-to-day routine, but if theres anything youre not clear about then say so.
No, it all seems fairly straightforward.
He stood up as well, feeling a tremor pass through him when his arm accidentally brushed against hers as he pushed back his chair. It immediately reminded him of what had happened the night before, and he sighed.
He still couldnt understand why that kiss had made such an impression on him. Hed been so afraid that Grace would notice something was wrong that hed been desperate to get away. When Penny had assumed that he was going to look for that nurse, he hadnt bothered correcting her because it had seemed the easiest way to resolve his dilemma. Now, however, he found himself wishing that he hadnt let Grace believe that he was interested in the young woman. Maybe it was silly to be so sensitive but he wouldnt want her to think that he was more concerned with his love life than doing a good job here.
Look, Grace, about that nurse last night
Please. She held up her hand, her beautiful mouth curling in distaste. Too much information, Harry. What you do in your free time is your business. I really dont want to hear all the gory details.
She swept past him, leaving him feeling completely dumbfounded. Did she honestly think that he was crass enough to discuss his sex life with her? His spirits sank as he realised what a low opinion she must have of him. That he was more than partly to blame for it made him feel even worse. He should have put an end to their squabbling years ago.
Grace hurried into her consulting room and closed the door. Shed been dreading seeing Harry that morning and it had turned out to be every bit as bad as shed feared. It had been hard enough to maintain her composure when hed seen fit to criticise the way she and Miles ran the practice, but when hed started to tell her about his nightly exploits with that nurseWell!
Heat swept through her and she clutched hold of the doorknob. She didnt want to think about Harrys sex life but she couldnt seem to control the images that were crowding into her head, pictures of him and that nurse curled up in bed togetheronly it wasnt the nurse. Shed had blonde hair and the woman in her minds eye had brown hair, caramel brown, just like hers
Grace leapt away from the door and hurried to her desk. She must be more tired than shed realised if she was dreaming up rubbish like that. It would be a cold day in hell before Harry Shaw got her into his bed.
Shed just switched on her computer when Janet, their receptionist, popped her head round the door to ask if she wanted a cup of coffee. Grace smiled gratefully. Yes, please. I didnt have time to make myself a drink before I left home this morning.
Janet shook her head. You should eat a proper breakfast before you come into work. You need to keep your strength up. Why did you have to be here so early, anyway? I saw you drive past my house when I was fetching in the milk and it wasnt even eight oclock at the time.
Grace sighed as she realised that Janet had no idea what had happened to Miles. She quickly explained the situation to her, stressing the fact that Miles should make a full recovery when she saw how upset the receptionist was. Everyone in the village loved Miles and she knew that a lot of people would be upset when they heard the news.
So what are you going to do? Janet asked, wiping away a tear. I mean, you cant manage all on your own. Theres far too much work for just one person.
Which is why weve enlisted one of our friends to help until Miles is feeling better.
Grace drummed up a smile, knowing that she couldnt let anyone suspect that she had doubts about working with Harry. If the patients had any inkling of how uneasy she felt about this alliance, they would have no confidence in Harry. Dr Shaw has offered to cover until Miles is feeling better, and I have to say that I think were very lucky to have him. Hes a superb physician and I know that our patients are going to receive the best possible care.
She glanced up when a movement outside the door caught her attention, and blushed when she saw Harry was standing there, listening to what she was saying. He grinned at her as he came into the room, his blue eyes full of laughter and something else, something that made her feel all hot and shivery, as though she was running a fever. Having Harry look at her as though he was genuinely delighted by her comments was the last thing shed expected. She wanted to run over to him and tell him that every word had been true, but how could she when she knew what he was really like?
Harry Shaw was a womanising Lothario. He didnt do anything unless it furthered his own career and brought him personal glory.
Grace made herself recite all the reasons why she disliked Harry but they no longer seemed to have the impact theyd had in the past. It all sounded very airy-fairy now, as though they were excuses, not genuine reasons. Did she truly believe that was all there was to Harry, or was she desperately trying to hold onto her old prejudices because she was afraid to face the truth? That Harry was a damned fine doctor who had worked incredibly hard to reach his present exalted position.
She didnt want to admit that she might have been wrong about him, but nothing seemed certain any more. The boundaries that had been drawn when theyd been students seemed to be breaking down, and Harry was no longer on one side and she on the other. For the next few weeks they would be working together as a team and, quite frankly, Grace didnt know how she was going to cope. She had a feeling that once Harry crossed that final boundary, her life would be changed for ever.
CHAPTER FOUR (#ua1a77883-0da0-58e5-983c-ec5498957801)
IF YOU would pop Bethany on the couch and take off her top and pants, I can examine her. I see from her notes that she was complaining of pains in her legs when you brought her in to see Dr Farrington at the beginning of December. How is she now?
Harry pulled back the screen and waited while Mrs Clarke settled her daughter on the examination couch. Five-year-old Bethany looked very pale and listless as her mother undressed her.
Much the same. She still keeps saying that her legs are sore. Dr Farrington said it was probably a virus because there were a lot of kiddies ill at the time with some bug or other. But it should have cleared up by now, I would have thought.
These things can take time to work themselves out of the system, Harry explained, although it was unusual for a child to be ill for this length of time if it was only a viral infection. Can you just explain how it all started? Ive read Bethanys notes but its better to have a first-hand account, I find.
Well, its like I said, Beth kept telling me her legs were hurting. I just assumed shed hurt them when shed been climbing the trees in our back garden so I didnt take that much notice at first. Mrs Clarke sighed. She has three older brothers, you see, and shes always trying to copy them and getting into mischief.
A real little tomboy, are you, young lady? Harry smiled at the little girl, although he had to admit that there didnt seem much sign of any mischief that day. Bethany appeared far too listless to cause any trouble. Bending down, he examined her legs, frowning when he saw that they were covered in bruises.
How did she get all these bruises? he asked, glancing at the mother.
Ive no idea. I only spotted them at the weekend. If shed been playing outside, I would have assumed shed fallen over and hurt herself, but shes not wanted to leave the house since Christmas. Mrs Clarke stroked her daughters hair. She keeps saying that shes too tired to play and its just not like her. Thats why I decided to bring her to the surgery again today. Its not natural for a child this age to be complaining that shes tired all the time, is it, Doctor?
Not if shes getting the right amount of sleep at night, Harry agreed, moving to the top of the couch. He gently felt around Bethanys neck and under her arms, hiding his dismay when he discovered how enlarged the lymph nodes were in those areas. Although he would have expected to find some sign of enlargement if Bethanys body was fighting off an infection, this degree of swelling was unusual. It could be a sign that there was something seriously wrong with the child, although he didnt intend to rush to any conclusions. He would spend an extra few minutes checking the facts, as Grace had advised him to do.
The thought of Grace sent a rush of heat along his veins. He had to make a determined effort to ignore it as he carried on with his examination. Has Bethany complained of pain anywhere else, or have you noticed anything unusual happening recently? he asked, trying not to dwell on how good it had felt to hear Grace praise him like that. He knew that in all likelihood it had been necessity that had prompted those comments: shed wanted the receptionist to think that she was happy to work with him so it wouldnt cause any unrest within the practice. However, he couldnt deny that it had been a boost to his ego to hear her say something good about him for a change.
Not really. Its been her legs mainly that shes been complaining about.
And theres been nothing else bothering her? he insisted gently, sensing that the mother was holding something back.
Well, its probably nothing. I told her dad about it but he just said I was fussing so I wasnt going to mention it, but her gums have been bleeding. Its not just when she cleans her teeth either, which is why I thought it was a bit odd.
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Jennifer Taylor
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: Playboy doctor Harry Shaw is rich, successful and extremely handsome. Since his arrival at Ferndale Surgery, he has charmed almost everybody, except GP Grace Kennedy. Grace refuses to be impressed by Harry′s charisma and good looks–she has known him too long and too well.But Grace hadn′t counted on her heart completely overruling her head. However hard she tries, she cannot stay away from her rogue partner. Working closely together,Grace and Harry finally give in to temptation. Could Grace be the woman to finally capture his heart once and for all?