Prognosis: A Baby? Maybe
Prognosis: A Baby? Maybe
Jacqueline Diamond
One Night Was All It Tookfor Dr. Jason Carmichael to believe that Heather Rourke had given birth to his baby. After all, there were the rumors that she'd taken off from work for two months for "personal reasons," right around the time she would have gone into labor. And then there was that adorable infant he'd seen when he'd stopped by her apartmentconveniently unannounced. But why would Heather keep him in the dark when all this once die-hard bachelor could think about was baby booties and toothless grins? He had no clear memory of the night of passion they had shared fifteen months earlier. Was this child his or was Heather hiding a deeper secret?
They made it to the bedroom at last
Lying with her head on Jasons chest, Heather listened to the evenness of his breathing and waited for sleep to claim her.
Theyd shared something tonight that ran deeper than a casual encounter. Hed felt it, too, she was certain.
She tried not to think about what might happen as a result. Perhaps, this time, there wouldnt be any emotional fallout. Surely she hadnt misjudged Jasons capacity for intimacy.
A momentary uneasiness disturbed her tranquillity. Theyd forgotten to take precautions. What if something came of it?
A longing jolted through her. A baby. To nurture a child through the miraculous stages of growth would be a joy almost as great as finding the love of her life.
As sleep began to claim her and she snuggled closer to Jason, Heather wondered whether it was possible that she might have both.
Dear Reader,
This month Harlequin American Romance delivers favorite authors and irresistible stories of heart, home and happiness that are sure to leave you smiling.
COWBOYS BY THE DOZEN, Tina Leonards new family-connected miniseries, premieres this month with Frisco Joes Fiance, in which a single mother and her daughter give a hard-riding, heartbreaking cowboy second thoughts about bachelorhood.
Next, in Prognosis: A Baby? Maybe, the latest book in Jacqueline Diamonds THE BABIES OF DOCTORS CIRCLE miniseries, a playboy doctors paternal instincts and suspicions are aroused when he sees a baby girl with the woman who had shared a night of passion with him. Was this child his? THE HARTWELL HOPE CHESTS, Rita Herrons delightful series, resumes with Have Cowboy, Need Cupid, in which a city girl suddenly starts dreaming about a cowboy groom after opening an heirloom hope chest. And rounding out the month is Montana Daddy, a reunion romance and secret baby story by Charlotte Maclay.
Enjoy this months offerings as Harlequin American Romance continues to celebrate its yearlong twentieth anniversary.
Melissa Jeglinski
Associate Senior Editor
Harlequin American Romance
Prognosis: A Baby? Maybe
Jacqueline Diamond
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
This book is dedicated to Marcia Holman with thanks
for her friendship and her expert advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The daughter of a doctor and an artist, Jacqueline Diamond claims to have researched the field of obstetrics primarily by developing a large range of complications during her pregnancies. Shes also lucky enough to have a friend and neighbor whos an obstetrical nurse. The author of more than sixty novels, Jackie lives in Southern California with her husband and two sons. She loves to hear from readers. You can write to her at P.O. Box 1315, Brea, CA 92822, or by e-mail at JDiamondfriends@aol.com (mailto:JDiamondfriends@aol.com).
Books by Jacqueline Diamond
HARLEQUIN AMERICAN ROMANCE
79THE DREAM NEVER DIES
196AN UNEXPECTED MAN
218UNLIKELY PARTNERS
239THE CINDERELLA DARE
270CAPERS AND RAINBOWS
279GHOST OF A CHANCE
315FLIGHT OF MAGIC
351BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS
406OLD DREAMS, NEW DREAMS
446THE TROUBLE WITH TERRY
491A DANGEROUS GUY
583THE RUNAWAY BRIDE
615YOURS, MINE AND OURS
631THE COWBOY AND THE HEIRESS
642ONE HUSBAND TOO MANY
645DEAR LONELY IN L.A.
674MILLION-DOLLAR MOMMY
687DADDY WARLOCK
716A REAL-LIVE SHEIKH
734THE COWBOY AND THE SHOTGUN BRIDE
763LETS MAKE A BABY!
791ASSIGNMENT: GROOM!
804MISTLETOE DADDY
833I DO! I DO!
855DADDY, M.D.
875KISS A HANDSOME STRANGER
889SURPRISE, DOC! YOURE A DADDY!
913THE IMPROPERLY PREGNANT PRINCESS
962DIAGNOSIS: EXPECTING BOSSS BABY* (#litres_trial_promo)
971PRESCRIPTION: MARRY HER IMMEDIATELY* (#litres_trial_promo)
978PROGNOSIS: A BABY? MAYBE* (#litres_trial_promo)
HARLEQUIN INTRIGUE
435AND THE BRIDE VANISHES
512HIS SECRET SON
550CAPTURED BY A SHEIKH
Contents
Chapter One (#ub680c164-5469-5133-9b36-5bc16ab39787)
Chapter Two (#udc367b01-ea5a-5093-9fae-ac28b8b787ca)
Chapter Three (#u9a13b456-e0ce-55cb-9c65-b34d51a28768)
Chapter Four (#u8812378e-df70-5b41-bc7c-0a341e2b6031)
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)
Chapter One
The last man in the world that Heather Rourke wanted to see stood in the doorway of her office. She glanced up questioningly, trying to mask her speeding pulse with an air of cool professional detachment.
Now that were going to be colleagues, Doctor, I hope we can put the past behind us, said Jason Carmichael.
Green ice, thats what had formed his eyes in some glacial age when Neanderthals stalked the world, Heather thought. In this case, the Neanderthal had a degree from Harvard Medical School, short dark hair and a lean build beneath his expensive business suit. His collected manner failed to assuage her opinion that he was a semi-savage male who probably ate his steak sandwiches raw.
As far as Im concerned, there is no past, Heather told the new head of the Infertility Clinic.
The latest addition to the Doctors Circle complex, the clinic was in the final stages of remodeling and would open officially in April, two months from now. Jason had arrived earlier this week but had been so busy that, until now, he and Heather had exchanged only brief, impersonal greetings. She wished they could keep it that way.
Ever since his appointment had been announced last fall, rumors had spread about her supposed dislike of him. Theyd been right.
Some fellow staffers attributed Heathers attitude to professional jealousy. Since shed worked as an obstetrician at Doctors Circle for three years and had handled most of the infertility cases, she might have expected to be promoted to the post.
Others guessed that there was some personal conflict in their backgrounds. No one knew the truth, that shed nearly made love to this man more than a year ago after meeting him at a convention. What a disaster that had been!
Heather hadnt confided the story even to the few friends with whom shed shared her other secret, that shed given up a baby for adoption when she was fifteen. Although her daughter had reappeared in her life and, along with a baby granddaughter, was now very dear to her, Heather saw no reason to spread that information around Doctors Circle. In her opinion, the more private she kept her life, the better.
Did you get my e-mail? Jason said. I expected a reply by now.
Im not sure. Which e-mail was that?
Ive only sent one.
Then no, I havent seen it, Heather said.
Jason gritted his teeth. I dont see how you could have missed it. I sent it twice.
Im sure its in the queue. She gestured at the computer screen that dominated the scattering of files and medication samples on her desk. I clear it every Friday. Today was Wednesday.
Annoyance twisted his mouth. Youll find Im a stickler for organization, Doctor. That includes keeping up with your messages.
Im a stickler for being on time with my patients, even when that leaves me with a messy desk. Heather checked her watch. Why dont you simply tell me what the message said? And why dont we drop this doctor nonsense and call each other by our first names?
Judging by his frown, Jason wasnt accustomed to being addressed so cavalierly. Hed better get used to it. People in Serene Beach, California, didnt stand on ceremony. Especially her.
Very well, Heather. He emphasized her name. I wrote to suggest that you and I walk through the new facility, unfinished as it is. Id like to consult you about our planning.
A blush heated her cheeks. With her short mop of red curls and sprinkle of freckles, Heather colored easily when embarrassed.
And she was embarrassed. Shed been giving Jason a hard time when all hed wanted was to discuss the plans for the clinic. Although she hated paperwork and therefore hadnt coveted the post of department head, she did want a say in how they set up staffing and scheduling.
So far, the two of them were the only doctors assigned to the clinic, although others would be arriving soon. His request was an appropriate professional courtesy.
My four oclock staff meeting got canceled. I could join you then, she said. Would that work?
Certainly. Jason cleared his throat. Listen, that isnt the only thing I wanted to discuss. We have some unfinished business to clear up.
Uh-oh. Which business would that be?
Atlanta, he said.
Heather definitely did not want to discuss the medical convention in Georgia where theyd met some fifteen months earlier. That unpleasant experience was best consigned to the scrap heap of memories.
What on earth had possessed her to go up to his room and throw her inhibitions out the window? Thank goodness hed fallen asleep before they could consummate a passion that, in retrospect, struck her as incomprehensible. His crankiness the following day had made it evident what a close call shed had.
That business is finished. You dotted the is and crossed the ts very succinctly the next morning. She closed the file shed been reviewing.
I wasnt at my best that Friday, Jason said. If she hadnt known him better, it might have sounded like an apology.
Being hungover is no excuse for rudeness.
I can be difficult when I have a headache, he said. Who isnt?
You must get a lot of headaches. Youre famous for your curt manner. Heather lifted her coffee cup, discovered that it was empty and set it down again. You reduced your secretary to tears yesterday, I heard.
Usually, the efficiency of the grapevine at Doctors Circle drove Heather crazy. Once in a while, however, it came in handy.
I didnt expect her to react so strongly. Jason ducked his head, and a well-shaped head it was, too, for a Neanderthal, she reluctantly conceded. By the time I arrived, Coral had already unpacked all my files from Virginia. I suppose I overreacted, but shell have to repack everything when we move across the courtyard to our new quarters.
Youre the one who requested a secretary be hired before you got here. In any case, you could have sent her instructions, since youre obviously a whiz with e-mail. Heather got to her feet.
I assumed she would liaise with my secretary in Virginia, Jason said.
Heather decided it would be impolitic to mention how much she hated trendy words like liaise. Corals new and I am sure she was trying to make a good impression.
I hope shell learn not to take things so personally. He shrugged. I get so focused on my work, I dont always realize the impact of what Im saying.
By the way, I believe Edith Krick has been assigned as your nurse. Youll like her. Shes highly competent and she has a thick hide where cranky doctors are concerned. Heather started for the doorway, but Jason was blocking her path.
Should she elbow him out of the way? Try to sidle past? The prospect of brushing against him sent an unwanted tremor through Heather.
She didnt like being attracted to this man. It had been a big mistake the first time they met, and she never repeated a mistake if she could help it.
Who did Edith work with before? Jason asked, apparently unaware of her desire to exit the room. Typical of him to be clueless, she thought.
An obstetrician who left last fall. I could tell you all about his divorce and why he decided to move to Connecticut, but I wont. The story is as long as your arm.
Thank you. There are enough people gossiping around here already, Ive gathered. The man smiled. Heather couldnt believe how human it made him look. Maybe Jason had some Homo sapiens DNA in him after all.
I wouldnt say people gossip at Doctors Circle. They just take a friendly interest in their coworkers, Heather said with more than a trace of irony.
How much of an interest?
They want to know every move you make and every word you say.
Then Ill be careful how I move and what I say. Jason straightened. For a moment, Heather thought he was going to move aside, until he planted himself even more firmly in her doorway. She glared.
Is there a problem? he asked.
Good heavens, was the man trying to be playful? She wasnt in a playful mood.
Nothing a well-placed kick to the solar plexus wouldnt solve, she said.
Are you hinting that Im in the way? A sparkle flashed deep in those ice-green eyes. He was definitely joking with her. That, or hed perfected the art of being a royal pain.
Its more than a hint. Put it in gear, please, Heather said.
Ill be happy to move if youll answer one or two questions about that past you claim we dont have, Jason murmured.
You didnt have any questions the next morning. Heather hoped no one overheard this conversation. She couldnt even imagine the speculation it might provoke.
I told you
You had a headache, she finished for him. Correction. You were a headache.
I might have been a touch abrupt, Jason admitted.
She refused to give him the satisfaction of letting him know how much his coldness had bothered her. That was nearly a year and a half ago. I scarcely remember what you said. Mischievously, she added, Or what you did, either.
You concede that I did something? He appeared torn between curiosity and something that, in an actual full-blooded human, might have been described as vulnerability.
I concede no such thing, she told him. As Ive mentioned several times, you fell asleep. Dont ask me if you snored. I didnt stick around.
I passed out, Jason said ruefully. Jet lag and a couple of drinks will do that to you.
Not to me, Heather answered. Well, if you dont remember what happened, why dont you accept my version of it?
You havent given me a version. Up close, the man was taller than she remembered, most likely because she herself barely cleared five foot two.
I told you, nothing happened. Thats as much of a version as I can muster.
Then why did I find your earring in my bed? Jason demanded.
Behind him, someone cleared her throat. Heathers blood ran cold. She felt like a kid caught with her hand in a cookie jar.
Jason must have had the same reaction, because he paled. Against his black hair, the high cheekbones and classic jawline stood out in stark relief.
Dr. Rourke? came the voice of Cynthia Hernandez, her nurse. Theres a patient waiting in Room C.
I wont delay you. Jason shifted backward, careful not to bump the dark-haired nurse behind him. That wasnt easy, since Cynthia, six months pregnant with twins, nearly filled the hallway. See you at four oclock at my office.
Ill be there. Heather took the patients chart from Cynthia and read the cover page. As soon as Jason was gone, she said, What did you overhear?
Nothing, and I wouldnt repeat it if I had. The nurse strolled with her down the hall. If your earring ended up in Dr. Carmichaels bed, Im sure it was perfectly innocent.
Yes, it was. Heather hoped Cynthia was as good as her word. Shed always been trustworthy until now.
Heather also spared a moment to wonder how long Jason would go on refusing to take her word for what hador rather, hadnthappened. She hoped she wasnt going to have to tell him the whole truth. After the way hed behaved the next morning, he didnt deserve to know.
Now that they were colleagues, theyd soon put it all behind them, she figured. It hadnt been such a big deal. Doctors always let their hair down at medical conventions. They didnt always take their clothes off, of course.
She entered the examining room and smiled at the woman sitting on the examining table. Rita Beltran beamed back. Pregnant with triplets after two years of infertility treatments, shed been floating on a cloud for months.
Heather shoved Jason Carmichael out of her mind. Her heart belonged to her patients, and success stories like Ritas made all her efforts worthwhile.
FROM HIS TEMPORARY, second-story office in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Jason stared across the courtyard. Even in late February, people lingered at the small tables around a fountain. For this time of year, the Southern California weather was remarkably pleasant compared to what hed grown up with in Boston.
The courtyard connected a trio of buildings: the three-story Birthing Center to the north, plus two curving Spanish-style wings, including the West Wing where he stood. At the plaza level, a couple of workmen were carting boxes into the facing East Wing. He assumed the cartons contained acoustical tiles, since thats what the men had been installing yesterday when the centers administrator, Dr. Patrick Barr, had shown Jason around.
His own clinic. Even stripped to raw flooring and taped windows, it had been gorgeous.
Although hed loved his work in Virginia, Jason knew hed made the right decision by coming here. At the larger, better-established facilities where hed trained and done research in reproductive endocrinology, hed earned a name for himself. Although hed enjoyed the prestige, what he loved most was helping eager couples have children.
Established by Dr. Barrs late father, Doctors Circle had significantly improved infant and maternal health in the community. Now it was about to move on to the cutting edge of infertility treatments. Jason treasured the opportunity to put his signature on this new clinic.
Heather Rourkes presence had had nothing to do with his decision to accept the job. Nor had it discouraged him from taking it, either. She had an excellent reputation and they should work well together, as long as she was willing to accept Jasons leadership.
He intended to keep their relationship strictly professional in spite of that irrepressible spark in Heathers eyes. In spite of a feminine way of moving that even a white coat couldnt disguise. In spite of a figure that, while petite in the right places, was also lusciously rounded in others.
In the past, Jasons experiences with romance had ended in unhappiness and anger. That kind of turmoil threatened to interfere with work, which was and always would be his number-one priority. Some men might be cut out for marriage and children, but not him.
A tap at the door drew his attention. George Farajian, chief of the Ob/Gyn Department, poked his graying head into the room. Okay to come in?
Of course. Jason turned away from the window.
I cant believe how organized youve got the place already. The obstetrician indicated the neatly labeled file cabinets and alphabetized shelves of books.
With a twinge, Jason recalled how hed chewed out his secretary for unpacking his boxes. If she hadnt, however, hed have spent the next month or so stumbling over them and cursing because he couldnt find whatever he was looking for. He supposed he owed the woman an apology.
I have to credit Coral, he said. Shes done a good job.
Glad to hear it. I believe she was hired specifically with you in mind. Now Id like to introduce you to your new nurse. George stepped to one side. Jason, may I present Edith Krick.
The center of gravity in the room shifted as the woman entered. Not literally, although she was heavyset, but emotionally. Dark-skinned, possessed of an inner certitude that bespoke years of experience, Edith had a knowing gaze that swept him assessingly.
They exchanged greetings and shook hands. All the while, Jason felt himself to be under critical scrutiny.
Ediths one of our best nurses, George said. She requested this assignment.
I wanted to work in the Infertility Clinic because I had one baby and never could have any more, Edith told him. I like to see women have as many as they want. It gets the love to flowing. You cant ever have too much love in this world. From her tone, it sounded as if she were challenging him to disagree.
Heaven forbid I should stem the flow of love, Jason said drily.
I expect Ill work real well with your secretary, Edith went on. Sometimes when a staffer is new in a place, she needs extra encouragement.
So that was the problem. Obviously, Edith had heard about or witnessed Corals tears and didnt intend to let Jason escape unscathed. Was this entire medical center full of hard-nosed women, he wondered, or was it just his luck to run into two of them on the same day?
George glanced from him to Edith and back again. Clearly, he hadnt missed the undercurrents. Is everything okay?
No problem, Jason said.
If you dont mind, then, Ive got some calls to return. Let me know if you need anything. With a friendly nod, George departed.
You play golf? Edith asked.
Occasionally. Although the change of subject surprised him, Jason tried not to show it. Do you?
No, but Dr. Farajian does. Plays every chance he gets, said the nurse. Sometimes with Dr. Sentinel. Hes our younger obstetrician.
How about you? How long have you worked at Doctors Circle? Although Jason didnt want to sound as if he were conducting an interview, it seemed important to take control and shift the balance of gravity back in his own direction.
Ten years. Apparently, Edith wasnt interested in talking about herself, because she went on to say, I suppose you know youve got patients scheduled starting on Monday.
Thats right. Although the clinic might not be officially open, Jason wanted to begin screening patients and setting up treatment plans.
One of them is Loretta Arista, Edith went on. Shes the public relations director here, and if she doesnt get pregnant soon, shes going to give up on having babies altogether.
I presume Dr. Rourke already did a workup on her?
Shes tried everything she knows, Edith said. Now its your turn.
Ill do my best. Jason found himself smiling at the womans obvious concern for her patients. Being a mother hen was a useful quality in a nurse. Less so in a doctor, however. Hed learned the hard way to keep a tight rein on his objectivity.
We sure will. Edith gave a nod, as if hed passed inspection. Ill be honest with you, Doctor. People say youre difficult to work with.
I set high standards and Im impatient if they arent met, Jason told her. When it comes to infertility, time is the enemy. Thats why I hate wasting it. Sloppiness, making assumptions and failing to follow directions wont be tolerated. Im sure you agree or Dr. Farajian wouldnt have recommended you.
Ediths grin made her face shine. Youre tough because you fight for your patients. I like that.
I can see that were going to get along. Jason remembered Heathers comment that Edith had a thick hide. Good. He didnt want to worry about accidentally wounding her ego if he snapped at her under pressure. Most likely, shed bark right back at him the moment they were alone. Fair enough.
An almost subliminal scent tantalized Jasons nostrils. Heather must have arrived for her tour of the new clinic. His subconscious made the connection even before he saw her.
Hello, Dr. Rourke. Hows everything going with you? Edith asked the smaller woman hovering outside in the hall.
Fine. Its good to see you. Briskly, Heather came inside.
An auburn curl straggling along one cheek was the only sign of weariness despite what must have been a long day. Having shed her white coat, she wore a dark skirt and a tailored beige blouse that, in spite of some discreet tucks, sketched her generous curves.
Jason tore his gaze away. He had the uncomfortable sense that both women had noticed where he was looking.
Were going to check out the clinic, he told Edith. Care to join us?
Meaningfully, her chocolate eyes fixed on Heather and him in turn. Like my mother used to say, threes a crowd, said the nurse. Right now, this office is so small, I can hardly breathe. Guess Id better go make sure the Records Department has sent over those patients charts for next week. I know how you hate inefficiency. Fanning herself with one hand, she stepped outside and closed the door behind her.
Heathers cheeks turned an appealing pink. Shes not very subtle, Im afraid.
About what? Faced with potential embarrassment, Jason had learned that the best response was to pretend you didnt get the point.
Forget it. She brushed a speck of lint off her blouse, seemingly unaware of how the action emphasized the shape beneath the clothing. Jason struggled to keep his breathing regular.
From the moment theyd met, during registration at a convention hotel in Atlanta, hed felt the same powerful pull toward her. He found it hard to believe that, even jet-lagged and having consumed a couple of drinks, hed blacked out as quickly as Heather claimed. Not with such a powerful yearning coursing through him.
Something had happened that night. Jason felt like an idiot for not being able to remember, but that was no excuse for her keeping him in the dark. Heathers earring hadnt landed in his bed by remote control.
Even though it might take a while to pry out the information, he was determined to get an answer. How he responded once he got it would depend on what he learned.
Ill buy you a cup of coffee at the kiosk on the way over. Jason opened the door for her. Unless youve had too much caffeine today.
Theres no such thing in this profession. Now that you mention it, if I dont get some more, I may keel over. Heather was so short, she walked under his outstretched arm and cleared it by an inch.
With hardly any effort, Jason could have drawn her against his chest and buried his face in her hair. Rejecting the image, he decided he needed that coffee even more than she did.
Chapter Two
Heather had avoided the first floor of the East Wing since the remodeling began, due to the noise, the sawdust in the air and the hazards of trying to make her way through construction clutter. With Jason as her guide, however, she found herself fascinated.
The work had progressed much further than shed realized, transforming the area formerly leased to an outside group of pediatricians. The altered layout of the walls showed Heather a state-of-the-art facility, with examining rooms and surgical suites plus an extensive laboratory where theyd be able to offer in vitro fertilization and the whole alphabet soup of new technologies.
In a few short decades, medicine had surpassed what science fiction had proposed when Heather was in high school. In addition to egg donations and embryo transfers, researchers had developed such exotic procedures as AH, or assisted hatching, in which a small opening was etched in the outer coating of the early embryo to help it implant in the womb.
The pace of research had intensified to the point where Heather spent her free time catching up on medical journals, reading research papers and attending conferences. No matter what people thought, she was grateful to have Jason on staff with his advanced training and experience.
She was less grateful for the mans overwhelming physical presence, not to mention the impulsive way he picked her up and lifted her over a row of boxes blocking her path. His large hands proved surprisingly gentle on her waist, the thumbs clamping lightly across her rib cage, the fingers nudging the skin below her breasts.
Ripples of desire flowed through her, speeding up Heathers breathing and spurring a sharp, Technicolor memory.
When he caught her nipples in his mouth, heat slammed into her, so intense it was almost painful. Lying on the hotel bed, Heather caressed his thick, black hair with a sense of delicious disbelief. Shed only met this man today. What was she doing? And how many times could they do it again during a three-day convention?
The directors office is this way. Jason, seemingly unaffected after lifting her, led the way past the examining rooms. You can pick which of the other offices youd prefer.
Ill take one as far from yours as possible. Had she said that aloud? Heather managed a smile. Im kidding, of course.
Its up to you. Surely that was studied indifference on Jasons handsome face, not the real thing, she thought, then wondered why she cared.
They stepped through an anteroom into his future office, which consisted of bare walls, rough wooden flooring and a curtainless window. From against the baseboards, Jason hoisted a couple of sketches washed with pastels.
Dr. Barr asked what I thought of his commissioning a mural for the hall, a motif that would carry through the examining rooms. He handed her the samples. Heres what the designer is proposing. What do you think?
The artist had a clever touch with babies, Heather mused as she examined the drawings. Each sketch showed a lively youngster, its face alight with precocious emotions. Rounded and full of life, the infants nearly leaped off the paper and into her arms. They reminded her of some photographs her friend Amy Ravenna Ladd, Doctors Circles resident psychologist, had installed in her office.
From your expression, I gather you like them, Jason said.
Theyre marvelous. Heather held them up, trying to imagine how they might figure into a mural. Still, some patients find it painful to be constantly reminded of the babies they cant have.
Maybe we should post drawings of ancient fertility symbols, he teased.
I suspect theyd prefer male movie stars, she said drily. That ought to put them in a fertile mood. Although she didnt intend to tell him so, she doubted anyone was going to need pictures of movie stars with Dr. Jason Carmichael around.
Some of our patients are men, he pointed out.
Ill allow a few photos of beautiful women, Heather said, adding, In the mens bathroom.
Whatever youve been doing until now, I was impressed by the statistics on your success rate, Jason said. Of course, even if I hadnt read the documents, I could tell just by looking around Doctors Circle. There seem to be a lot of pregnant staff members.
Heather handed the sketches back to him. I dont deserve all the credit. Some women manage fine by themselves.
I noticed that your nurse is pregnant, Jason said. Isnt she uncomfortable, working so close to her due date?
She wants to save as much leave as possible for after the twins are born, Heather admitted. Since shes a single mom She stopped, not wanting to reveal more of Cynthias situation than necessary.
I see. Jason frowned. As the single mother of two infants, she could have a hard time keeping up with your schedule. Perhaps she and the father will prefer that she switch to a less rigorous schedule.
The fathers out of the picture entirely. She pressed her lips together, not wanting to say anything further.
Im sorry to hear it, for everyones sake. He shook his head. Shes going to be exhausted and distracted. If she starts making mistakes that affect patient care, shell have to be transferred.
Shell be fine. Heather wasnt sure why she bristled at his tone, since she shared the same concerns. But after providing excellent assistance for several years, Cynthia had earned her loyalty. She loves working with me. She doesnt want any other position.
Then she should have thought things out more carefully in advance, Jason said.
How dare he blame the pregnancy on Cynthia when she already had enough problems? Are you blaming her for having an accident?
No, but Jason seemed briefly at a loss for words. Finally, he said, As an obstetrical nurse, she surely has the knowledge to prevent this kind of situation.
People have been known to get carried away by their passions, Heather said. Not that I need to mention any names.
She saw by the way his eyes widened that shed hit her target. Youre changing your story? Its no longer that nothing happened. Now its that we got carried away by our impulses?
We went part of the way before you fell asleep, Heather said. Thats all.
Im willing to believe that in my less-than-optimal condition, my memory lost what must have been a delicious experience. Jason moved closer, looming over her. Heather had to fight the impulse to take a step backward. But youre saying that I fell asleep in the middle of making love to you? Thats going a bit far. Im thirty-six, not ninety-six.
What difference does it make? she snapped. Whatever we did, its over.
Id like to know where I stand.
A little too close for comfort, frankly.
Deliberately, he shifted toward her. Let me know when youre ready to run screaming into the woods.
I should warn you, I know karate. And several other Japanese words.
That wont do any good. The highest you could kick would be my kneecap. He grinned. You know, the two of us really should spend more time together. Maybe my memories will flood back.
My memory doesnt need refreshing. Heather had to tilt her head to meet his gaze. Anything you want to know, youre free to ask. But since you made it clear the next morning that you had no interest in pursuing the matter, Im surprised you keep harping on it now.
Jason reached out and brushed an errant curl off her temple. His touch shivered straight into parts of Heather that she considered off-limits to him or anybody else. In my hungover condition, I may have muttered something less than gallant. For that, I apologize.
Your exact words, as I recall, were, Whatever happened last night, I trust Ill hear nothing further about it. A slight tremor undermined Heathers tone. Darn it, she didnt want to show any vulnerability around Jason.
He had no right to know how much hed wounded her. For the first time in years, shed begun to open up to a man, only to have him throw it in her face.
If shed had different life experiences, she might have found his attitude merely churlish and dismissed it from her mind. To a woman whod been abandoned as a teenager by the man shed loved and trusted, however, his rejection had struck her like a physical blow.
Did I really say that? Jason asked. Ouch.
Those were your exact words. I already explained that theres nothing wrong with my memory. Heather was preparing a few more sharp remarks when she saw him focus on a spot behind her and realized someone had come into the room.
She turned, already knowing there was only one person at Doctors Circle who could approach that quietly on bare floors. Coral Liu possessed an inner calm that had impressed Heather from the moment the young woman started work in January. Even now, when she was probably quaking inside at facing her boss, her smooth, intelligent face showed only respect.
I hope Im not interrupting. Coral held up a catalog of office furniture. Mrs. Barr asked me to show you this. I thought it might be helpful to make your selections while youre in the new office, so you can picture how things would fit.
With an impatient expulsion of breath, Jason took the catalog. I dont have much of an eye for interior decorating.
Coral bit her lip. Jasons slight sign of impatience bothered her, Heather could tell. It was too bad such a rough-edged man had been paired with a sensitive secretary, although she knew Natalie had interviewed a number of applicants before recommending Coral.
I took the liberty of drawing a floor plan, if youd care to look at it, the secretary said.
Sure. Jason didnt lift his eyes from the catalog as he flipped through.
Coral handed Heather a sheet of paper. Although the markings had been sketched with a tentative hand, the young woman had done a careful job of arranging the desk, a couch, chairs and filing cabinets. Looks good to me.
Jason gave it a quick glance. Might work. Ill give it a more thorough going-over later. He handed everything back to Coral. Put these on my desk, please.
Yes, Dr. Carmichael. She turned away, disappointment clouding her eyes. Apparently shed hoped her floor plan would draw a more positive response.
Oh, Coral. One more thing.
She stopped, her slim back rigid, and turned to face him.
On second thought, I realize it wasnt such a bad idea to unpack my files and books, Jason said. We wont be moving for at least a month, and Id have hated not being able to find things when I needed them. In future, just check with me before doing something like that, okay?
Yes, sir. After giving him a shy smile, Coral retreated. Her shoulders, Heather noticed, had relaxed.
What were we talking about? Jason asked after Coral had left. Something important, I recall.
Heather refused to resume the discussion of their ill-starred encounter in Atlanta. We were reviewing the mural. I approve of it. Babies, babies everywhere sets the right tone.
Ill tell Patrick. As I said before, decorating isnt my strong point. Despite his well-known dislike of wasting time, Jason appeared in no hurry to move on. The rest of our new staff should be on board before April. Ill forward their bios to you, if youre interested.
Id like that. Time to make her getaway, Heather decided. Thanks for showing me around. I have to be going.
You havent picked your office.
Ill leave that to you, she said. Ive got an appointment.
Although technically she was finished at five oclock, infertility patients had to be seen during their optimal times of the month, which werent always predictable. Some of the women also contended with rigid work schedules, so Heather made a point of staying flexible.
Ill see you later, then. Jason didnt suggest walking back across the plaza together, to her relief.
Once she was out in the fresh air, Heathers spirits rose. With luck, they had put that entire Atlanta business behind them. With a little more luck, the sensual awareness vibrating between them would abate as soon as familiarity bred boredom. Any day now.
She marched across the courtyard, her sensible pumps clicking confidently against the pavement.
TELL ME AGAIN what was wrong with this one, Rob Sentinel said as he and Jason emerged from the third apartment building theyd visited.
Jason appreciated the young obstetricians offer to spend part of Saturday ferrying him around town. As a recent arrival himself, Rob knew the ropes of apartment hunting.
There was no built-in microwave, Jason said.
Thats what I thought you said. I just didnt believe it. They sell microwaves at discount stores, you know. Rob sounded impatient, which was understandable, considering that hed given up a chance to play golf with George today.
Ive already accumulated more stuff than I want. Jason knew it didnt make sense, his dislike of loading himself down with material possessions. Still, with only a few clothes, a small TV and a boom box, hed been able to ship everything easily from Virginia.
If he had good financial sense, hed buy a place, his mother had advised in a phone call from Boston. Being a real estate agent, she figured he was making a mistake by not investing now that he appeared to be putting down roots.
Certainly Jason didnt plan to change jobs any time soon. Possibly not for many years.
Yet in the past thered been timesone in particular, after his engagement had fallen apartwhen both his personal and professional lives had benefited from his ability to pack up and move on short notice. He wasnt ready to give up that freedom yet.
Hold on. Rob paused next to his car and folded his arms. Didnt you ask me earlier whether any of the apartments allowed dogs? A dog isnt exactly what Id call a minor acquisition.
It was an idle question. Jason had always dreamed of having a dog. His parents, who took pride in their spotless Brookline home, had nixed the idea while he was growing up, and hed had no opportunity since then. Maybe when I retire, Ill buy a large place and a dog to go with it. I dont know why I bothered asking today. It just popped into my head.
For some reason, he wondered whether Heather liked dogs. Hed spent the last couple of days wondering about Heathers taste in a lot of things, although hed been too busy to seek her out again.
Your subconscious might be sending you a signal, said his companion.
Excuse me? How on earth had Rob figured out that he was thinking about Heather?
The dog. If thats what you really want, were taking the wrong approach. The obstetrician leaned against the car. I dont think an apartment is what you need.
If youre about to suggest I invest in real estate, stop right there, Jason said.
I was thinking more along the lines of renting a house or a town house, the younger doctor said. Thats what Dr. Rourke does.
Oh? He tried to sound casual, although he found himself intensely interested in hearing more. Where does she live?
In a town house development on Bordeaux Avenue. Thats in the northeastern part of town, Rob said. Id have rented there myself if it were closer to the beach.
Do they allow pets? That would be ideal, Jason thought.
I dont know, said the other doctor. You could ask her about it on Monday.
I dont want to wait that long. Im tired of the hotel. He was impatient to get settled and curious to see where Heather lived, too. Why dont we swing by there and take a look at her place?
I dont know her unit number. Besides, shes probably not home. Obviously, Rob wasnt eager to make another stop. If he were getting tired of the apartment hunt, Jason couldnt blame him.
Youve been great today, he said. Youve given me a good idea of whats available. Why dont you drop me at my hotel? I can take it from there.
I promised to help, Rob said stubbornly. Besides, you dont know your way around town.
Ive got a map, he pointed out, then added the kicker. Its still early enough to hit the golf course.
The man ran through several expressions as he waged an internal debate. All right. The call of the links had won out. Ill take you back, but let me know if you need more help.
You bet. Jason didnt plan to do anything of the sort.
At his hotel, he thanked Rob. As soon as the man was out of sight, Jason called Patricks home. The administrator had given him the number in case of weekend or evening problems that required his immediate attention.
Patricks wife, Natalie, answered. After Jason explained that he wanted to check out the town houses, she gave him Heathers address and cell phone number. Im not sure if shes home, Natalie said. She volunteers in a program for unwed mothers on Saturday mornings.
Into Jasons mind flashed their conversation on Wednesday about the pregnant nurse, along with Heathers sharp reaction. Had she misinterpreted his remarks as an insult toward unmarried mothers? Hed only meant to point out that, if anyone knew enough to take precautions, it ought to be an obstetrical nurse.
Its nearly noon, he said. She might be home.
You can call her, Natalie said.
I appreciate the information.
Good luck on finding a place.
Thanks. Jason didnt mean to mislead her, but, as he rang off, hed already decided not to bother calling in advance.
Heather might tell him to stay away. And he had no intention of doing that.
Chapter Three
Pushing up on her hands and knees, the baby rocked her little body forward, lost her balance and plopped onto the carpet. Doggedly, she hoisted herself up again and began rocking once more.
Shes trying to crawl, Heather said in delight.
Wait! Ill get my camera. Her daughter Olive ran for the digital apparatus, which was never far away. I have to send John a shot.
Hes getting out of the marines next month, Heather pointed out. Hell be able to watch her crawl and stand and walk before you know it.
I cant bear for him to miss any of it. Hes miserable that he wasnt here for her birth. Crouching, Olive took aim and snapped a shot just as Ginger flopped onto her side and opened her mouth to bawl. Oh, no. Thats going to look awful.
Its cute, Heather said. Everything she does is cute.
Typical grandmother. Her daughter smiled indulgently. Even if you are ridiculously young.
You think shes cute, too!
Granted, but I dont dote on her the way you do. With an arch look, Olive added, Maybe if you could brag about her to your friends, youd get it out of your system.
I do brag about her to my friends.
Only Natalie and Amy. Olive stretched onto her stomach, keeping the baby in the frame. When it came to taking pictures, she had a lot of patience. I know youre not ashamed of us, Mom, but you need to get over being ashamed of yourself.
That was perceptive for a twenty-one-year-old woman, Heather reflected. Things have changed. When I got pregnant out of wedlock, people sneered at me. I was held up as a bad example.
Oh, come on! Even twenty years ago, nobody believed that old business about fallen women.
Youd be surprised.
Olive clicked quietly as Ginger tried again. This time, the baby managed to move her arms and legs fast enough to keep her balance as she lurched forward. She did it!
Im going to get my camera, too, Heather said. Dont let her grow up before I get back.
Shed scarcely taken two steps before the phone rang in the kitchen. It was John, making one of his rare overseas calls to his fiance. After they exchanged greetings, she went to get her daughter.
Olive vanished to take the call. In the living room, Heather indulged herself by shooting a series of photos as Ginger bumbled her way along the carpet, making a colorful splash with her yellow jumpsuit and carrot-colored hair.
Although Olive and Ginger had been staying here for five months, she still could hardly believe shed not only been reunited with her daughter, shed also gained a granddaughter. It was more than shed ever dared hope for.
Heather had been a confused fifteen-year-old when she got pregnant by her eighteen-year-old boyfriend, Ned. A handsome young man with a tan complexion and dark hair like Olives, hed sworn he adored her and wanted to marry her somedayuntil he discovered that she was with child.
The first words out of his mouth had been, Its not mine. Shocked, shed burst into tears. He was the only man shed ever been with, shed pointed out. They loved each other, didnt they? Surely he was going to stand by her.
What a fool shed been! For the next few weeks, Ned had avoided her. When Heather showed up at the auto repair shop where he worked, hed ordered her off the premises.
Shed spent a miserable week confiding in no one, telling herself Ned would come to his senses. Finally shed dropped by his house. His mother had fixed her with an angry glare.
Hes gone, the woman had said. Dont ask me where. Its your fault. He should never have gotten mixed up with a tramp like you.
Stunned and frightened by the thought of what lay ahead, Heather had cried until her eyes were raw, then gone home and confessed to her parents. Seeing the disappointment in their faces had been almost as bad as experiencing Neds betrayal.
Her father, a truck driver, and her mother, a supermarket checker, had always encouraged Heather and her brother to focus on their studies and aim for the stars. News of the pregnancy had hit them hard.
They hadnt rejected her, though. Their love had made life bearable while she attended an alternative high school and suffered snubs from former friends. When the baby was born, Heather had known she wasnt prepared to raise a child, so shed tearfully given her up for adoption. At every point, her parents had delivered their support without question.
Ill never let you down again, shed told them, and she hadnt. When she graduated from college, the first person in her family to do so, theyd been thrilled, and shed been pleased when her brother followed in her footsteps.
Earning her medical degree, although it required financial sacrifices of everyone, had filled them with pride. So had Heathers brothers decision to become a police officer.
Over the years, shed always wondered where her little girl was and hoped she was loved. Although Heather had never doubted the wisdom of her decision, shed ached for the child she would never see.
A few years ago, shed signed up with a service that matched parents and birth children, in case her daughter ever wanted to find her. About a year ago, shed received a call.
Olives beloved adoptive parents had died in an accident while she was in college. Engaged to a marine, pregnant and temporarily alone while he served overseas, shed sought to connect with the woman whod given birth to her.
As soon as they met, theyd become best friends. From her flashing brown eyes to her sense of humor, Olive seemed like a younger sister. Even the parts of her that came from Ned, like her dark hair and slim build, were a gift, in Heathers opinion. The man was a fool whod lost much more than hed taken.
She could never regret having this daughter and granddaughter, no matter how much theyd cost her. And she knew her parents, whod met them at Christmas, no longer regretted it, either.
Thered been plenty of speculation at Doctors Circle last fall when Heather, without explanation, took two months leave to coach Olive through the birth and spend time with her afterward. Office gossip attributed her absence to pique at Jasons appointment, and shed done nothing to correct the impression. It made as good an excuse as any, since she had no intention of subjecting her painful past to the scrutiny of others.
Afterward, the pair had come to live here while John wrapped up his service. Olive, whod grown up only an hours drive away in Los Angeles, had finished earning her degree at nearby Serene College. This month, shed taken her last final and completed her work. Soon, John would be returning.
Heather didnt want to think about how much she was going to miss living with her daughter and granddaughter. Strange as it seemed, she enjoyed having her once-tranquil living room crammed with a playpen and toys and she loved being called Mom, an honor Olive had spontaneously bestowed upon her. She hoped the new family would settle nearby so she could watch every step, literally and figuratively, of Gingers development.
Mom! Olive sprinted into the living room. Im so excited! John wants to get married as soon as he arrives. He cant bear to wait, and neither can I! Were going to have our wedding next month.
Im pleased for you. Relief was Heathers first reaction. Shed never met her future son-in-law in person, and until now had had only Olives assurances that he was loving and rock-solid. Thank goodness John hadnt turned out to be a cad like Ned.
Its been so lonely with him gone, and now well be together all the time. Joy made Olive shimmer as she sang, Here comes the bride! Big, fat and wide! Not!
Despite Heathers happiness for her daughter, reality intruded. A little less than three weeks. That was all the time they had until John returned.
How will we ever be able to put a wedding together? she cried. Oh, honey, Im sorry. I dont mean to be a spoilsport and I know Amy managed hers in a week, but I have no idea where to begin.
Amy and Quent Ladd had married quickly in order to gain custody of his orphaned niece and nephew. Theyd been assisted by Amys highly capable Aunt Mary, whod offered the use of her large home for the ceremony and reception. This town home, despite its vaulted ceiling and graceful design, wasnt nearly big enough, in Heathers opinion.
Youre such a worrier, chortled her daughter. Were going to get married at a Las Vegas wedding chapel. The only guests will be you and Johns parents from Texas. Youll bring the baby home and watch her for me during our honeymoon, wont you? Were going to celebrate right there in Vegas.
Of course, Heather said.
Olive performed an impromptu dance that made Ginger laugh. Your daddys coming home! Im going to be a bride!
You need a dress, Heather said.
John told me to pick out a ring, too. Olive started for the kitchen again.
Where are you going?
To call my friend Julia to help me shop. I know how impatient you get in stores, her daughter said. Dont argue. Ill let you see what I choose before I make the final decision, okay?
All right. Despite her sense that the mother of the bride ought to have a finger in every pie, Heather knew that after one hour in the mall, shed start tapping her foot and biting her nails. Leave the baby with me while you shop.
Julia would have a fit. Shes always complaining that she doesnt get to spend enough time with Ginger.
Babies dont make good shopping companions. Shell get restless, Heather warned.
Well take lots of breaks, Olive said. Dont fuss over me, Mom. Not that I really mind. Gosh, youre so much like my mama used to be, I almost feel like shes here.
Im sure she is. Heather felt a deep gratitude to the woman whod raised Olive. Shell always be here in your heart.
Her daughters eyes got suspiciously bright. She hurried to stuff supplies into the diaper bag. By the time she whisked Ginger out the door, Olive was dry-eyed and eager to look for a gown.
After the door closed, the two most precious people in Heathers life were gone, if only for a little while. The sparkle vanished from the air.
So this is what empty-nest syndrome feels like, she told the silent house. Its not as if Id spent twenty years being a mother. I shouldnt make such a big deal of it.
With a sigh, she bent to pick up the scattered toys that had accumulated on the carpet along with bits of lint and shreds of paper. They must be transporting themselves here from an alternate universe, because Heather had never figured out where all this stuff came from.
The doorbell rang. Olive had forgotten something, which wasnt surprising in view of her rush. Pushing a flyaway strand of hair from her forehead, Heather went to answer the door.
The dark-haired man who filled the doorway regarded her with amused curiosity. Just getting up, at this hour? he asked.
Uncomfortably, Heather realized what a picture she must make. After rising early to feed Ginger while Olive slept, shed showered and thrown on a sweatsuit that resembled pajamas. Although shed brushed her hair, that was many hours and diaper changes ago.
Jason, by contrast, looked as if hed strolled out of a magazine ad. It was positively indecent the way his polo shirt stretched across his broad chest and his jeans hung low across his hips. It looked as if one tweak would be enough to make the snap give way.
Stop thinking like that! Im getting a head start on my spring cleaning, Heather improvised. What can I do for you?
Im house-hunting and got curious about where you lived. With a swift motion, he plucked a wisp of paper from her hair. Did you hold a confetti parade through your premises this morning? He peered past her into the entryway.
With a jolt, Heather realized that if she opened the door any further, hed see the playpen in the living room and the high chair visible through the doorway in the kitchen. Not to mention assorted toys and parenting magazines.
Yes, I had a parade, and thats why you cant come in, she said tartly. Theres horse poop everywhere.
Jasons smile turned into a grimace. Thats the weirdest excuse Ive ever heard.
For what?
For keeping me out.
Women make a lot of excuses for keeping you out, do they? Heather said. The truth is, as you can see, Im in no shape to receive company.
He composed his features into a semblance of injured innocence. Im simply looking for ideas about what kind of place to rent.
Thats easy. Dont rent, buy, Heather said. Thats what Im going to do as soon as I save the down payment. If she hadnt been repaying student loans until the previous year, shed have purchased a house long ago.
If youre planning to close the door on my foot, it wont work, Jason said. Im wearing heavy shoes.
Why would I need to close the door on your foot, since youre going away?
He edged closer. I just want to take a look at the layout of your town house. Ive been thinking of renting here in the development.
Dismay squeezed the air from Heathers lungs. Jason, living in her complex? That would mean running into each other at the mailboxes and the pool. Hed see her in her bikini. What was worse, hed see Olive and Ginger.
Youd hate it, she said. Its noisy.
It seems quiet today. Sure enough, the only sounds were birds twittering in a tree and the hum of a car passing on the street. Im sure itll be fine.
Dropping the noise angle, Heather shifted to a more promising topic. You should check out the area where Amy and Quent Ladd live, near the beach. Its much more suitable for a single person.
Why dont you live there? he asked.
Because Im stuffy and conventional. This wasnt working, she could tell by his stubborn stance. Ill tell you what. Wait out there while I change, and Ill take you to meet the manager. Im sure shed be happy to
Hed leaned a bit too far toward her. Even a strong guy like Jason could only challenge gravity so far before he lost his balance, and at the merest bump from his strong shoulder, Heather staggered backward. The door swung wider.
Im sorry. Jason grabbed her arm in time to prevent a tumble. Im not usually this clumsy. His head came up as he took in the contents of the room. There was a long, contemplative pause. When did you start running a day-care center?
Believe it or not, one baby created all this mess. My niece and her daughter are visiting. Heather hated to lie, but if there was anyone she didnt choose to bare her soul to, it was Jason Carmichael. Especially after that comment about how Cynthia should have known better than to get pregnant out of wedlock.
Great architecture. Apparently accepting her explanation, he indicated the high ceiling and open staircase. Hows the construction?
On the verge of praising it, she remembered her goal of discouraging him from renting in the complex. The upstairs bathroom tilts. There are cracks in the walls, too. That was true, more or less. Practically every wall in Southern California had a few cosmetic cracks, thanks to the occasional earthquakes.
Theres got to be some reason you chose to live here, he said.
Darn the man, why did he insist on questioning her so closely? He took far too great an interest in Heathers home for her comfort.
Ill show you, she said, deciding openness was the only way to satisfy his curiosity. Follow me.
She led him through the living room. The angles and sightlines felt different when she tried to regard them from Jasons point of view. Or perhaps it was his thoroughly male, keenly inquisitive presence that changed everything.
He radiated a subtle energy, a vibration that filled the town house. Heather battled the instinct to touch him. In spite of herself, she knew where that could lead and wasnt absolutely certain shed be able to stop.
In the kitchen, Jasons eyebrows rose at the sight of the high chair. Your niece brought a lot of equipment for a visit.
Shes staying with me while she finishes college, Heather clarified. On the point of mentioning that Olive was getting married next month, she stopped. Guilty people gave themselves away by prattling too much, and the more she talked, the more suspicious he was likely to become.
Youre a gracious aunt to put up with all this mess, he said.
Heathers gaze traveled across the unwashed dishes on the counter to a bib smeared with breakfast food. She supposed it was disorderly from the point of view of a man who had only himself to care for. Until this moment, shed hardly noticed. I dont mind. Its only temporary.
At least the kitchen is a good size, he said approvingly.
Heather tried to find some flaw to point out, but failed. Reaching the glass door, she slid it open and stepped onto the enclosed patio. This is the reason I rented the place. She indicated a small flowerbed bursting with cool-weather flowers suitable for a Southern California winter.
Its very pretty. You like to garden? Jason asked.
Id love to have a whole yard full of flowers. Heathers mind painted the scene as she spoke. Rose bushes in every corner and climbing on a trellis. I want enough blooms for cutting and the air filled with old-fashioned perfume.
Youve got it planned out, I see. Jason edged away, or perhaps he was turning to examine a potted coleus. I cant imagine where you find the time.
Gardenings restful, Heather said. Digging in the dirt settles my mind.
His teasing manner of a few minutes ago disappeared. It looks to me like a lot of effort for a place youre going to leave behind eventually. Heather could have sworn she saw disapproval in the way he regarded the rioting flowerbed.
Sticking a few bedding plants into the ground isnt exactly a lifetime commitment, she said. Besides, these are annual flowers. They have to be replaced a couple of times a year in any case.
Suit yourself, Jason said.
She couldnt resist teasing him. If you decide to lease a unit, Ill be glad to offer you tips. You might become a real aficionado.
I cant imagine investing that much effort in something Im going to leave behind, Jason answered. Its a waste of effort.
How soon are you planning to move on? Heather leaned down and yanked a weed.
In the midday light, Jasons green eyes took on a hard emerald gloss. Not soon, of course, but lets be honest. Although heading this clinic is a terrific opportunity, I dont picture myself sticking around forever.
No roses and no roots, Heather said. How sad.
Jason shrugged. A house is just a place.
She imagined him as an old man, living in Spartan quarters, still refusing to commit himself to anything beyond his profession. Feeling a pinch of regret, she conceded silently that, without meaning to, shed begun to picture Jason in a romantic light. The man was so darn handsome, and the way he moved sent shivers down her spine.
She ought to know better. Thank goodness hed brought her up short today. There were good men in the world, such as her friends husbands, but they were few and far between. Too many were like Ned, quick to promise the moon and ready to run when a woman needed them.
Or like Jason, who valued only the professional side of himself. There was no point in arguing with him. The man was as set in his ways as concrete.
After dusting off her hands, Heather took him back inside. Id show you the bedrooms but theyre in worse shape than the kitchen.
A subdued Jason didnt press the point. Thanks for the tour. Ill see you at work on Monday.
Good luck finding a place to live. Although it might be unwise, she found herself adding, Did you decide against renting a town house?
Its a bit large for a single guy. I wouldnt want to inadvertently encourage any relatives to move in with me, particularly ones with babies, he said, and let himself out.
Maybe he was joking, but Heather didnt find the remark funny. She was tempted to throw one of Gingers toys at his retreating back.
She couldnt imagine why shed ever allowed herself to be attracted to that stuffed shirt. Okay, Jason could be charming when he turned the frost level down to low, but with him, as with most men shed met, you never knew when you were going to get a blast of arctic air in the face.
Well, Heather had better things to do with her Saturday than stand here hurling mental insults at Jason Carmichael. Even a woman with a limited attention span for mall shopping could help her daughter get married.
She switched on her computer, logged on to the Internet and cruised the wedding-related websites, bookmarking pages with gowns she thought Olive might like. Being the mother of the bride provided a lot more satisfaction than shed ever found or ever expected to find with a man.
Chapter Four
The three puppies wiggled in their basket, barking excitedly and trying to pour over the edges. Two little boys whom Jason guessed to be about six and eight kept stuffing them back inside.
Hi, there. He crouched on the walkway and scratched each set of floppy ears in turn. Eager pink tongues swiped his hand and one pup, a shaggy black-and-tan shepherd mix, leaped as if trying to land in his lap.
You want one, mister? Theyre ten dollars. The older boy pointed at a hand-lettered sign for confirmation. Our mom says we cant keep them.
Neither can I, Im afraid. After spending Saturday and most of today exhausting rental possibilities, Jason had returned to Heathers development in earnest a short time earlier. Yesterday, hed been so put off by the notion of nesting that hed ignored a sign at the managers office advertising a unit for rent. He hadnt forgotten about it, though.
By comparison to everything else hed seen, hed found the empty town house to his liking. Located halfway across the complex from Heathers, it featured a similar layout and came furnished. The only vegetation on its patio was a ficus tree watered through an automatic system.
Jason had signed up immediately. The month-to-month lease meant that if he found something he liked better, he was free to move. Because of the location, there was no reason for him and Heather to get in each others way, and he appreciated the peace and quiet.
The one drawback was that renters werent allowed to have pets. The manager had explained that owner-occupants could keep animals as long as they didnt allow them to run loose. The boys family must be owners, Jason thought.
Thats Frodo. Hes my favorite. The younger boy indicated the black-and-tan pup, whose tail was wagging so hard that Jason half expected it to propel its owner into the air.
I cant have a dog because Im renting, he said.
The older boys face scrunched. Whats the use of being a grown-up if you cant have a dog?
Good point. Jason got to his feet. I hope you find homes for them.
Thanks, they chorused.
What was the use of being a grown-up if you couldnt have a puppy or roses or any other reasonable thing that you wanted? he mused. It was an internal discussion that would have surprised Heather Rourke, Jason supposed.
Hed certainly bristled when shed showed him her flower garden. Its blooming lushness had filled his senses with perfume and his soul with an intense yearning. For what, he wasnt sure, but hed yanked himself back to reality in a big hurry.
As he strolled around the complex to check out its amenities, Jason wondered if he would ever feel ready to settle down in one place or with one woman. He didnt believe in love sweeping people off their feet, though, especially not a scientist like him. Some guys werent cut out to be husbands, and he was one of them.
He tried to remember what impulse had prompted him to get engaged during his residency. Hed met Eileen, a law student at Boston University, through family friends. Theyd had a lot in common, including busy schedules, a taste for Greek food and a love of jazz. Eileen had understood about Jasons long hours and seemed to share his vision of a future devoted to becoming among the best in their fields.
Somewhere along the line, the subject of marriage had come up. Knowing that he needed a wife with similar goals and attitudes, Jason had fallen in with the idea. Both of them agreed that they wanted to work the long hours required by their professions, with children postponed indefinitely.
He tensed as he recalled his last year of residency. During a difficult period, hed driven himself harder and, he knew, become snappish to those around him. Perversely, Eileen had chosen that time to press him to set a date for their wedding.
Hed told her frankly that he couldnt handle getting married right then and needed the freedom to relocate if necessary. Her response had been tears and nagging. Jason knew he should have tried to understand, but he hadnt possessed the energy to deal with her. When a prominent institution in England invited him to pursue his work there after completing his residency, hed ended his engagement and removed himself from the situation.
Later, through friends, hed learned that Eileen had planned to drop out of law school and didnt want a demanding career. She wasnt crazy about Greek food or jazz, either. Their relationship had been built on her molding herself to suit him, without his realizing it. Perhaps she hadnt been honest with herself about what she was doing, either.
Although Jason regretted having disappointed her, marriage would have been a huge mistake. Perhaps that was why hed reacted so strongly to the flowers yesterday. Subconsciously, hed pegged Heather as being dedicated to her work, and it disturbed him to discover that at heart what she wanted was the whole picket-fence, rose-trellis scenario. Just like Eileen.
Seeing the playpen and toys in her living room had given him a start, too. Oddly, Jason had found them kind of appealing, although he was relieved to know they belonged to Heathers niece.
Babies were cute. So were little boys like the pair with the puppies. Their dad probably loved taking them to ball games and playing on the beach with them. Someday, Jason supposed, he might want kids of his own. Someday, like in another ten years.
Lost in thought, he didnt realize he was passing Heathers unit until he saw her standing in front, trimming dead blossoms from an azalea. In a tan T-shirt and beige jeans, she was shapely enough to catch any mans eye.
When she caught sight of Jason, her hand jerked and she mangled a branch. What are you doing here?
Im glad to see you, too, he said.
Heather ducked her head, acknowledging the veiled complaint. Youre right. Its nice to see you again, Dr. Carmichael. Did you have some questions about the care and feeding of rose bushes?
Im afraid not, he said. If you see me traipsing by later with my arms full, you can lend a hand if you care to.
Her half smile shaded into a frown. You rented a place?
He shrugged. Serene Beach turns out not to have a very big supply of available housing.
You swore youd decided against renting a town house.
That was before I looked all over town, Jason said. I honestly tried to find a place somewhere else. I combed the newspaper and an Internet referral service.
You havent been looking very long, Heather retorted mercilessly.
Im sick of the hotel and Ive got a busy week ahead. He knew it was a low blow, to use work as an excuse for encroaching on her territory, but it truly was part of the reason for his rush. Theres no reason for us to see each other except in passing.
Well run into each other at the pool, she countered.
The image that came to mind, of Heathers full breasts and slim waist displayed in a bikini, almost broke down Jasons determination to regard her purely as a colleague. His voice catching, he choked out, I dont plan to do much swimming.
Good. Returning her attention to the azalea, she cut the broken branch and tossed it into a plastic bucket. I trust you wont be running over to borrow a cup of sugar or a pair of pruning shears.
Scouts honor. She hadnt mentioned laundry detergent, he thought. He might run out of that.
And dont you dare go anywhere near my health club!
Which health club is that? he asked, his interest perking.
Never mind. Heather appeared fascinated by a weed near the base of the bush. Ill see you around.
You bet. Although he would have enjoyed lingering, Jason knew he had a lot to accomplish this evening.
With a wave, he strode away, his thoughts flying ahead to the process of moving. The heated buzz in his nervous system abated too slowly for comfort.
A health club, eh? Hed make a point of finding it. A man needed exercise, after all.
OH, COME ON, Mom, Olive said. You cant tell me his moving here doesnt mean he likes you. I cant wait to meet this guy!
Jason Carmichael is my boss and an annoying one, at that. Heather glowered. The last thing she wanted was for her daughter to start trying to pair them off.
That doesnt mean he cant be interested in you! Besides, hes your supervisor, not your boss. He doesnt have the power to fire you, does he?
No. The hospital administrator was the only one who had that right.
See? Olive crowed.
He needs a place to live. Thats all. Heather clicked to another page on the computer screen. What do you think of this one? I wasnt sure whether you liked scooped necklines.
So I can show off my nonexistent cleavage? Her daughter sighed. I wish Id inherited your figure, Mom.
You have a great figure!
Not as great as yours.
I have a hard time finding clothes that dont make me look fat, Heather protested.
What you look is stacked, Olive said. No wonder this hunky guy wants to be our neighbor.
When Heather had mentioned Jasons first visit the previous day, Olive had been too distracted by her armful of brochures and brainful of wedding ideas to pay much attention. After learning that hed actually rented a place, however, shed seized on the topic with glee.
Youve never met him, Heather pointed out. What makes you think hes hunky?
The little smile you wear every time you mention him. Leaning over her, Olive flicked from one web page to another so rapidly that Heather couldnt keep track of what they were looking at. She supposed you had to be under twenty-five to master that skill. You smile the same way whenever you see one of your favorite actors.
Oh, seriously! she scoffed.
Olive paused at a Victorian-style gown, studied it intently for about five seconds, then zoomed onward. Let me guess. Hes tall, dark and handsome.
Heather wondered if her daughter were psychic, since her taste in movie stars was wide-ranging. How on earth did you know that?
Because my father must have been. Olive paused in her surfing. Obviously I didnt get my coloring from you.
You have my eyes, though. Neds were darker. Heather smiled. Its funny how the red hair skipped a generation.
You havent met John yet, Olive pointed out.
In Olives favorite photo, they both wore ski caps and jackets. Until now, Heather hadnt realized shed never seen his hair.
He has red hair?
Like a carrot with a sunburn.
Olive logged off the Internet. She must be nearing wedding overload, at least for the moment. Besides, it was dinnertime.
The younger woman set the table while Heather made spaghetti. You should invite him for dinner, Olive said as she worked.
By him, should I assume you mean Jason? Heather checked the hot water, but it wasnt quite at a boil yet.
None other. Olive clinked down two plates.
Id be happy if I never saw him outside the office again. She meant it. Brisk professionalism was the best attitude to adopt where that man was concerned.
Whats his voice like? Olive turned to offer Ginger another spoonful of baby food. Strapped into her high chair, the little girl swallowed it hungrily.
What difference does it make?
Theres nothing like a sexy voice. Olive paused as if listening to something Heather couldnt hear. John has a slow, sensuous way of talking. I guess its the Texas accent. What kind of accent does Jason have?
Boston. Heather hadnt given it any thought until now. Not a strong one, though. And a deep voice, but she wasnt going to give her daughter the satisfaction of mentioning it.
Mom, have you had a serious relationship in your entire life? Olive resumed feeding Ginger. I mean, aside from my father?
After their reunion, Heather had related the story of their ill-starred romance, softened to depict Ned as immature rather than self-centered. To Heathers relief, her daughter had shown no interest in locating him.
No. I havent met a man I could love. Sometimes I doubt he exists. Although Heather dated from time to time, her self-protective instincts had led her to keep men at bay, at least until that night with Jason. In retrospect, she was grateful that hed fallen asleep. If theyd made love, his thoughtless remark the next morning would have been devastating.
Stop! Olive waved excitedly.
Looking down, Heather discovered shed been about to drop the uncooked spaghetti into the simmering tomato sauce instead of the boiling water. Oops. Thanks for warning me.
Dont try to convince me you werent daydreaming about someone of the male persuasion. Her daughter grinned. Care to mention any names?
Brad Pitt, Heather said quickly. Ewan McGregor. Heath Ledger.
Jason Carmichael? suggested her impish tormentor.
Why does he fascinate you so much? Heather stirred the spaghetti with a pasta fork, separating the strands.
Its long past time you got over my father being such a jerk. Apparently Olive had drawn her own conclusions about Neds behavior despite Heathers attempt to spare her the worst. Maybe its because John and I are so happy that I want you to find the right man, too.
I have no problem with that, said Heather. When I find him, Ill let you know.
Sure you will. Skepticism rang in every word.
Heather hoped this was the last shed hear of the topic. She didnt need a matchmaker living in the same house, particularly one whod seized on the misguided notion that there was some kind of chemistry between her and Jason.
With luck, plans for the wedding would put the whole thing out of Olives mind soon enough, she told herself, and switched off the burner under the tomato sauce.
THE PATIENT was thirty-four years old and had been trying to get pregnant for five years. She and her husband had undergone a battery of tests with no definitive explanation for their infertility, which was often the case despite advances in medicine.
Loretta Arista was also, Jason knew, the public relations director at Doctors Circle. Shed organized a press conference for him last fall to announce his appointment to this position.
Sitting across the desk from her, he recommended in vitro fertilization, which she hadnt yet tried. Its a lot simpler than it used to be, Jason said. We no longer have to perform surgery. Both the egg retrieval and the implantation are out-patient procedures.
Thats good. Loretta hugged herself defensively. She had short, dark hair with a vivid white streak in the front.
Its basically a three-week procedure. Jason produced a brochure to illustrate his words. For two weeks, youll be intensively prepped with hormones.
When the eggs were ripe, they would be removed with a needle under local anesthesia and grown in a laboratory for several days. After fertilization with her husbands sperm, they would be implanted in her womb. The odds of a pregnancy resulting were about one in four.
That means a 75 percent chance of failure, doesnt it? Loretta explained that her sister, Rita, was pregnant with triplets, which only made her more eager to have a child herself.
I understand. Jason was pleased to see from her file that Loretta had been seeing the staff counselor to deal with the emotional fallout of infertility. Have you and your husband considered adoption?
We already went through the home-study process, but I understand its difficult to find an infant, Loretta said. Besides, Im not ready to adopt yet. Can my eggs be ready when the embryologist comes on board in two weeks?
The timing looks good. Lets set up our next appointment and well get started, Jason said.
Thanks, Doctor. Is it okay if I put on my public relations hat now?
Of course. He grinned at the metaphor.
Loretta visibly relaxed, becoming more animated as she switched gears. I want to photograph you in the new facility when its closer to completion. Ill need to interview you and the embryologist for a press kit, too.
Just let my secretary know what day would be convenient, he said.
After she left, Edith appeared. Can you help her?
I hope so, he said. Wait, dont say it. I know we have to keep the love flowing around here.
His nurse chuckled. You got that right.
The rest of the day flew by, with patients lined up for appointments. Many, he concluded after reviewing their charts, were candidates for the latest techniques. Like Loretta, most couldnt wait to start.
After work, Jason stopped by the supermarket. Having transferred his few possessions to his new home yesterday, hed been too tired to do more than send out for pizza.
On his way to the checkout stand, a bag of puppy food landed in his cart. One minute he was passing a display of chow, and the next minute there it was, nestled among his selections. Jason nearly put it back, until he told himself that he should give it to the little boys. Maybe it would convince their mother to let them keep Frodo.
At the town house, he stowed the puppy food near the washing machine and fixed himself a meal of rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes and salad. Afterward, silence settled over the town house like a shroud. He hadnt realized how much larger this place was than the bachelor flat hed leased in Virginia.
Jason threw on a light jacket and went out for a walk. What a peaceful place this was, he reflected as he admired the lavender azaleas and orange-and-purple birds of paradise. As he passed one unit after another, he heard the murmur of voices and the clink of pots and pans.
When he was growing up, his mother had often missed dinner while selling houses and his father, a doctor, had frequently worked late, too. Still, theyd made a point of dining together two or three times a week.
Meals were meant to be sociable. Jason shoved his hands into his pockets and hurried on.
On the far side of the pool and spa enclosure, he heard yipping noises coming from one of the units. Jason didnt even have to think about it. He walked right up and knocked on the door.
It was answered by the older boy hed met on Sunday. I dont suppose Frodos still for sale, is he? he heard himself ask.
I thought you werent allowed to have pets, the boy replied.
Did the kid have to have such a good memory? Im not, he said. I was asking for a friend.
The boys father came to the door and introduced himself as Gordon Gray. While they were shaking hands, a small black-and-tan whirlwind flung itself at Jason, leaping at him until he couldnt resist picking it up. His reward was to have his chin sandpapered by an eager tongue.
After he explained that he was considering buying the pup but was concerned about leaving it alone all day, the man said, My wife, Alice, runs a service, taking dogs for walks. That way they dont get so lonely.
It sounds perfect, Jason said.
The dog was still for sale and the price of Alices service proved reasonable. Jason tried not to think about the fact that he was breaking his newly signed lease by acquiring a pet. After a lifetime spent living by the rules, he figured he was entitled to a minor infraction.
There was also the issue of whether hed be able to take a dog with him to wherever he might move in the future. Jason decided to worry about that when the time came.
He tucked Frodo inside his jacket, where the pup settled contentedly, and went outside. Some brave soul had ventured out to soak in the spa, he realized when he heard the rumble of the jets. As long as the pool gates were unlocked, he might as well cut through to get back to his place.
Halfway across, Jason came abreast of the spa. Steam formed a pillar in the chilly air, ghostlike beneath the overhead lights.
He broke stride when he spotted the woman lounging in the water with her eyes half-closed. There was no mistaking that auburn hair or that familiar face. Although most of Heathers shape disappeared beneath the roiling water, her breasts made an impressive appearance in a skimpy bikini bra that more than matched his fevered imaginings of the previous day.
They strained the fabric almost beyond endurance. Almost beyond his endurance, anyway.
Beneath his jacket, Frodo chose that moment to protest his confinement by squirming. The normal complement of two arms and two hands werent nearly enough to hold one puppy while maintaining a nonchalant attitude, Jason discovered.
Heathers eyes flew open. Jason? I thought you werent going to use the pool!
Im not, he said. Im just taking a walk.
Then what are you doing in here? She frowned at the way he clutched his chest. Are you all right?
Fine, he said. Im in kind of a hurry, actually.
I dont understand. What She stopped as a nose poked out of his jacket and a sharp yip disturbed the evening calm. Heathers expression warmed. What a cute puppy.
.
.
, (https://www.litres.ru/jacqueline-diamond/prognosis-a-baby-maybe/) .
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Jacqueline Diamond
One Night Was All It Tookfor Dr. Jason Carmichael to believe that Heather Rourke had given birth to his baby. After all, there were the rumors that she'd taken off from work for two months for "personal reasons," right around the time she would have gone into labor. And then there was that adorable infant he'd seen when he'd stopped by her apartmentconveniently unannounced. But why would Heather keep him in the dark when all this once die-hard bachelor could think about was baby booties and toothless grins? He had no clear memory of the night of passion they had shared fifteen months earlier. Was this child his or was Heather hiding a deeper secret?
They made it to the bedroom at last
Lying with her head on Jasons chest, Heather listened to the evenness of his breathing and waited for sleep to claim her.
Theyd shared something tonight that ran deeper than a casual encounter. Hed felt it, too, she was certain.
She tried not to think about what might happen as a result. Perhaps, this time, there wouldnt be any emotional fallout. Surely she hadnt misjudged Jasons capacity for intimacy.
A momentary uneasiness disturbed her tranquillity. Theyd forgotten to take precautions. What if something came of it?
A longing jolted through her. A baby. To nurture a child through the miraculous stages of growth would be a joy almost as great as finding the love of her life.
As sleep began to claim her and she snuggled closer to Jason, Heather wondered whether it was possible that she might have both.
Dear Reader,
This month Harlequin American Romance delivers favorite authors and irresistible stories of heart, home and happiness that are sure to leave you smiling.
COWBOYS BY THE DOZEN, Tina Leonards new family-connected miniseries, premieres this month with Frisco Joes Fiance, in which a single mother and her daughter give a hard-riding, heartbreaking cowboy second thoughts about bachelorhood.
Next, in Prognosis: A Baby? Maybe, the latest book in Jacqueline Diamonds THE BABIES OF DOCTORS CIRCLE miniseries, a playboy doctors paternal instincts and suspicions are aroused when he sees a baby girl with the woman who had shared a night of passion with him. Was this child his? THE HARTWELL HOPE CHESTS, Rita Herrons delightful series, resumes with Have Cowboy, Need Cupid, in which a city girl suddenly starts dreaming about a cowboy groom after opening an heirloom hope chest. And rounding out the month is Montana Daddy, a reunion romance and secret baby story by Charlotte Maclay.
Enjoy this months offerings as Harlequin American Romance continues to celebrate its yearlong twentieth anniversary.
Melissa Jeglinski
Associate Senior Editor
Harlequin American Romance
Prognosis: A Baby? Maybe
Jacqueline Diamond
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
This book is dedicated to Marcia Holman with thanks
for her friendship and her expert advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The daughter of a doctor and an artist, Jacqueline Diamond claims to have researched the field of obstetrics primarily by developing a large range of complications during her pregnancies. Shes also lucky enough to have a friend and neighbor whos an obstetrical nurse. The author of more than sixty novels, Jackie lives in Southern California with her husband and two sons. She loves to hear from readers. You can write to her at P.O. Box 1315, Brea, CA 92822, or by e-mail at JDiamondfriends@aol.com (mailto:JDiamondfriends@aol.com).
Books by Jacqueline Diamond
HARLEQUIN AMERICAN ROMANCE
79THE DREAM NEVER DIES
196AN UNEXPECTED MAN
218UNLIKELY PARTNERS
239THE CINDERELLA DARE
270CAPERS AND RAINBOWS
279GHOST OF A CHANCE
315FLIGHT OF MAGIC
351BY LEAPS AND BOUNDS
406OLD DREAMS, NEW DREAMS
446THE TROUBLE WITH TERRY
491A DANGEROUS GUY
583THE RUNAWAY BRIDE
615YOURS, MINE AND OURS
631THE COWBOY AND THE HEIRESS
642ONE HUSBAND TOO MANY
645DEAR LONELY IN L.A.
674MILLION-DOLLAR MOMMY
687DADDY WARLOCK
716A REAL-LIVE SHEIKH
734THE COWBOY AND THE SHOTGUN BRIDE
763LETS MAKE A BABY!
791ASSIGNMENT: GROOM!
804MISTLETOE DADDY
833I DO! I DO!
855DADDY, M.D.
875KISS A HANDSOME STRANGER
889SURPRISE, DOC! YOURE A DADDY!
913THE IMPROPERLY PREGNANT PRINCESS
962DIAGNOSIS: EXPECTING BOSSS BABY* (#litres_trial_promo)
971PRESCRIPTION: MARRY HER IMMEDIATELY* (#litres_trial_promo)
978PROGNOSIS: A BABY? MAYBE* (#litres_trial_promo)
HARLEQUIN INTRIGUE
435AND THE BRIDE VANISHES
512HIS SECRET SON
550CAPTURED BY A SHEIKH
Contents
Chapter One (#ub680c164-5469-5133-9b36-5bc16ab39787)
Chapter Two (#udc367b01-ea5a-5093-9fae-ac28b8b787ca)
Chapter Three (#u9a13b456-e0ce-55cb-9c65-b34d51a28768)
Chapter Four (#u8812378e-df70-5b41-bc7c-0a341e2b6031)
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)
Chapter One
The last man in the world that Heather Rourke wanted to see stood in the doorway of her office. She glanced up questioningly, trying to mask her speeding pulse with an air of cool professional detachment.
Now that were going to be colleagues, Doctor, I hope we can put the past behind us, said Jason Carmichael.
Green ice, thats what had formed his eyes in some glacial age when Neanderthals stalked the world, Heather thought. In this case, the Neanderthal had a degree from Harvard Medical School, short dark hair and a lean build beneath his expensive business suit. His collected manner failed to assuage her opinion that he was a semi-savage male who probably ate his steak sandwiches raw.
As far as Im concerned, there is no past, Heather told the new head of the Infertility Clinic.
The latest addition to the Doctors Circle complex, the clinic was in the final stages of remodeling and would open officially in April, two months from now. Jason had arrived earlier this week but had been so busy that, until now, he and Heather had exchanged only brief, impersonal greetings. She wished they could keep it that way.
Ever since his appointment had been announced last fall, rumors had spread about her supposed dislike of him. Theyd been right.
Some fellow staffers attributed Heathers attitude to professional jealousy. Since shed worked as an obstetrician at Doctors Circle for three years and had handled most of the infertility cases, she might have expected to be promoted to the post.
Others guessed that there was some personal conflict in their backgrounds. No one knew the truth, that shed nearly made love to this man more than a year ago after meeting him at a convention. What a disaster that had been!
Heather hadnt confided the story even to the few friends with whom shed shared her other secret, that shed given up a baby for adoption when she was fifteen. Although her daughter had reappeared in her life and, along with a baby granddaughter, was now very dear to her, Heather saw no reason to spread that information around Doctors Circle. In her opinion, the more private she kept her life, the better.
Did you get my e-mail? Jason said. I expected a reply by now.
Im not sure. Which e-mail was that?
Ive only sent one.
Then no, I havent seen it, Heather said.
Jason gritted his teeth. I dont see how you could have missed it. I sent it twice.
Im sure its in the queue. She gestured at the computer screen that dominated the scattering of files and medication samples on her desk. I clear it every Friday. Today was Wednesday.
Annoyance twisted his mouth. Youll find Im a stickler for organization, Doctor. That includes keeping up with your messages.
Im a stickler for being on time with my patients, even when that leaves me with a messy desk. Heather checked her watch. Why dont you simply tell me what the message said? And why dont we drop this doctor nonsense and call each other by our first names?
Judging by his frown, Jason wasnt accustomed to being addressed so cavalierly. Hed better get used to it. People in Serene Beach, California, didnt stand on ceremony. Especially her.
Very well, Heather. He emphasized her name. I wrote to suggest that you and I walk through the new facility, unfinished as it is. Id like to consult you about our planning.
A blush heated her cheeks. With her short mop of red curls and sprinkle of freckles, Heather colored easily when embarrassed.
And she was embarrassed. Shed been giving Jason a hard time when all hed wanted was to discuss the plans for the clinic. Although she hated paperwork and therefore hadnt coveted the post of department head, she did want a say in how they set up staffing and scheduling.
So far, the two of them were the only doctors assigned to the clinic, although others would be arriving soon. His request was an appropriate professional courtesy.
My four oclock staff meeting got canceled. I could join you then, she said. Would that work?
Certainly. Jason cleared his throat. Listen, that isnt the only thing I wanted to discuss. We have some unfinished business to clear up.
Uh-oh. Which business would that be?
Atlanta, he said.
Heather definitely did not want to discuss the medical convention in Georgia where theyd met some fifteen months earlier. That unpleasant experience was best consigned to the scrap heap of memories.
What on earth had possessed her to go up to his room and throw her inhibitions out the window? Thank goodness hed fallen asleep before they could consummate a passion that, in retrospect, struck her as incomprehensible. His crankiness the following day had made it evident what a close call shed had.
That business is finished. You dotted the is and crossed the ts very succinctly the next morning. She closed the file shed been reviewing.
I wasnt at my best that Friday, Jason said. If she hadnt known him better, it might have sounded like an apology.
Being hungover is no excuse for rudeness.
I can be difficult when I have a headache, he said. Who isnt?
You must get a lot of headaches. Youre famous for your curt manner. Heather lifted her coffee cup, discovered that it was empty and set it down again. You reduced your secretary to tears yesterday, I heard.
Usually, the efficiency of the grapevine at Doctors Circle drove Heather crazy. Once in a while, however, it came in handy.
I didnt expect her to react so strongly. Jason ducked his head, and a well-shaped head it was, too, for a Neanderthal, she reluctantly conceded. By the time I arrived, Coral had already unpacked all my files from Virginia. I suppose I overreacted, but shell have to repack everything when we move across the courtyard to our new quarters.
Youre the one who requested a secretary be hired before you got here. In any case, you could have sent her instructions, since youre obviously a whiz with e-mail. Heather got to her feet.
I assumed she would liaise with my secretary in Virginia, Jason said.
Heather decided it would be impolitic to mention how much she hated trendy words like liaise. Corals new and I am sure she was trying to make a good impression.
I hope shell learn not to take things so personally. He shrugged. I get so focused on my work, I dont always realize the impact of what Im saying.
By the way, I believe Edith Krick has been assigned as your nurse. Youll like her. Shes highly competent and she has a thick hide where cranky doctors are concerned. Heather started for the doorway, but Jason was blocking her path.
Should she elbow him out of the way? Try to sidle past? The prospect of brushing against him sent an unwanted tremor through Heather.
She didnt like being attracted to this man. It had been a big mistake the first time they met, and she never repeated a mistake if she could help it.
Who did Edith work with before? Jason asked, apparently unaware of her desire to exit the room. Typical of him to be clueless, she thought.
An obstetrician who left last fall. I could tell you all about his divorce and why he decided to move to Connecticut, but I wont. The story is as long as your arm.
Thank you. There are enough people gossiping around here already, Ive gathered. The man smiled. Heather couldnt believe how human it made him look. Maybe Jason had some Homo sapiens DNA in him after all.
I wouldnt say people gossip at Doctors Circle. They just take a friendly interest in their coworkers, Heather said with more than a trace of irony.
How much of an interest?
They want to know every move you make and every word you say.
Then Ill be careful how I move and what I say. Jason straightened. For a moment, Heather thought he was going to move aside, until he planted himself even more firmly in her doorway. She glared.
Is there a problem? he asked.
Good heavens, was the man trying to be playful? She wasnt in a playful mood.
Nothing a well-placed kick to the solar plexus wouldnt solve, she said.
Are you hinting that Im in the way? A sparkle flashed deep in those ice-green eyes. He was definitely joking with her. That, or hed perfected the art of being a royal pain.
Its more than a hint. Put it in gear, please, Heather said.
Ill be happy to move if youll answer one or two questions about that past you claim we dont have, Jason murmured.
You didnt have any questions the next morning. Heather hoped no one overheard this conversation. She couldnt even imagine the speculation it might provoke.
I told you
You had a headache, she finished for him. Correction. You were a headache.
I might have been a touch abrupt, Jason admitted.
She refused to give him the satisfaction of letting him know how much his coldness had bothered her. That was nearly a year and a half ago. I scarcely remember what you said. Mischievously, she added, Or what you did, either.
You concede that I did something? He appeared torn between curiosity and something that, in an actual full-blooded human, might have been described as vulnerability.
I concede no such thing, she told him. As Ive mentioned several times, you fell asleep. Dont ask me if you snored. I didnt stick around.
I passed out, Jason said ruefully. Jet lag and a couple of drinks will do that to you.
Not to me, Heather answered. Well, if you dont remember what happened, why dont you accept my version of it?
You havent given me a version. Up close, the man was taller than she remembered, most likely because she herself barely cleared five foot two.
I told you, nothing happened. Thats as much of a version as I can muster.
Then why did I find your earring in my bed? Jason demanded.
Behind him, someone cleared her throat. Heathers blood ran cold. She felt like a kid caught with her hand in a cookie jar.
Jason must have had the same reaction, because he paled. Against his black hair, the high cheekbones and classic jawline stood out in stark relief.
Dr. Rourke? came the voice of Cynthia Hernandez, her nurse. Theres a patient waiting in Room C.
I wont delay you. Jason shifted backward, careful not to bump the dark-haired nurse behind him. That wasnt easy, since Cynthia, six months pregnant with twins, nearly filled the hallway. See you at four oclock at my office.
Ill be there. Heather took the patients chart from Cynthia and read the cover page. As soon as Jason was gone, she said, What did you overhear?
Nothing, and I wouldnt repeat it if I had. The nurse strolled with her down the hall. If your earring ended up in Dr. Carmichaels bed, Im sure it was perfectly innocent.
Yes, it was. Heather hoped Cynthia was as good as her word. Shed always been trustworthy until now.
Heather also spared a moment to wonder how long Jason would go on refusing to take her word for what hador rather, hadnthappened. She hoped she wasnt going to have to tell him the whole truth. After the way hed behaved the next morning, he didnt deserve to know.
Now that they were colleagues, theyd soon put it all behind them, she figured. It hadnt been such a big deal. Doctors always let their hair down at medical conventions. They didnt always take their clothes off, of course.
She entered the examining room and smiled at the woman sitting on the examining table. Rita Beltran beamed back. Pregnant with triplets after two years of infertility treatments, shed been floating on a cloud for months.
Heather shoved Jason Carmichael out of her mind. Her heart belonged to her patients, and success stories like Ritas made all her efforts worthwhile.
FROM HIS TEMPORARY, second-story office in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Jason stared across the courtyard. Even in late February, people lingered at the small tables around a fountain. For this time of year, the Southern California weather was remarkably pleasant compared to what hed grown up with in Boston.
The courtyard connected a trio of buildings: the three-story Birthing Center to the north, plus two curving Spanish-style wings, including the West Wing where he stood. At the plaza level, a couple of workmen were carting boxes into the facing East Wing. He assumed the cartons contained acoustical tiles, since thats what the men had been installing yesterday when the centers administrator, Dr. Patrick Barr, had shown Jason around.
His own clinic. Even stripped to raw flooring and taped windows, it had been gorgeous.
Although hed loved his work in Virginia, Jason knew hed made the right decision by coming here. At the larger, better-established facilities where hed trained and done research in reproductive endocrinology, hed earned a name for himself. Although hed enjoyed the prestige, what he loved most was helping eager couples have children.
Established by Dr. Barrs late father, Doctors Circle had significantly improved infant and maternal health in the community. Now it was about to move on to the cutting edge of infertility treatments. Jason treasured the opportunity to put his signature on this new clinic.
Heather Rourkes presence had had nothing to do with his decision to accept the job. Nor had it discouraged him from taking it, either. She had an excellent reputation and they should work well together, as long as she was willing to accept Jasons leadership.
He intended to keep their relationship strictly professional in spite of that irrepressible spark in Heathers eyes. In spite of a feminine way of moving that even a white coat couldnt disguise. In spite of a figure that, while petite in the right places, was also lusciously rounded in others.
In the past, Jasons experiences with romance had ended in unhappiness and anger. That kind of turmoil threatened to interfere with work, which was and always would be his number-one priority. Some men might be cut out for marriage and children, but not him.
A tap at the door drew his attention. George Farajian, chief of the Ob/Gyn Department, poked his graying head into the room. Okay to come in?
Of course. Jason turned away from the window.
I cant believe how organized youve got the place already. The obstetrician indicated the neatly labeled file cabinets and alphabetized shelves of books.
With a twinge, Jason recalled how hed chewed out his secretary for unpacking his boxes. If she hadnt, however, hed have spent the next month or so stumbling over them and cursing because he couldnt find whatever he was looking for. He supposed he owed the woman an apology.
I have to credit Coral, he said. Shes done a good job.
Glad to hear it. I believe she was hired specifically with you in mind. Now Id like to introduce you to your new nurse. George stepped to one side. Jason, may I present Edith Krick.
The center of gravity in the room shifted as the woman entered. Not literally, although she was heavyset, but emotionally. Dark-skinned, possessed of an inner certitude that bespoke years of experience, Edith had a knowing gaze that swept him assessingly.
They exchanged greetings and shook hands. All the while, Jason felt himself to be under critical scrutiny.
Ediths one of our best nurses, George said. She requested this assignment.
I wanted to work in the Infertility Clinic because I had one baby and never could have any more, Edith told him. I like to see women have as many as they want. It gets the love to flowing. You cant ever have too much love in this world. From her tone, it sounded as if she were challenging him to disagree.
Heaven forbid I should stem the flow of love, Jason said drily.
I expect Ill work real well with your secretary, Edith went on. Sometimes when a staffer is new in a place, she needs extra encouragement.
So that was the problem. Obviously, Edith had heard about or witnessed Corals tears and didnt intend to let Jason escape unscathed. Was this entire medical center full of hard-nosed women, he wondered, or was it just his luck to run into two of them on the same day?
George glanced from him to Edith and back again. Clearly, he hadnt missed the undercurrents. Is everything okay?
No problem, Jason said.
If you dont mind, then, Ive got some calls to return. Let me know if you need anything. With a friendly nod, George departed.
You play golf? Edith asked.
Occasionally. Although the change of subject surprised him, Jason tried not to show it. Do you?
No, but Dr. Farajian does. Plays every chance he gets, said the nurse. Sometimes with Dr. Sentinel. Hes our younger obstetrician.
How about you? How long have you worked at Doctors Circle? Although Jason didnt want to sound as if he were conducting an interview, it seemed important to take control and shift the balance of gravity back in his own direction.
Ten years. Apparently, Edith wasnt interested in talking about herself, because she went on to say, I suppose you know youve got patients scheduled starting on Monday.
Thats right. Although the clinic might not be officially open, Jason wanted to begin screening patients and setting up treatment plans.
One of them is Loretta Arista, Edith went on. Shes the public relations director here, and if she doesnt get pregnant soon, shes going to give up on having babies altogether.
I presume Dr. Rourke already did a workup on her?
Shes tried everything she knows, Edith said. Now its your turn.
Ill do my best. Jason found himself smiling at the womans obvious concern for her patients. Being a mother hen was a useful quality in a nurse. Less so in a doctor, however. Hed learned the hard way to keep a tight rein on his objectivity.
We sure will. Edith gave a nod, as if hed passed inspection. Ill be honest with you, Doctor. People say youre difficult to work with.
I set high standards and Im impatient if they arent met, Jason told her. When it comes to infertility, time is the enemy. Thats why I hate wasting it. Sloppiness, making assumptions and failing to follow directions wont be tolerated. Im sure you agree or Dr. Farajian wouldnt have recommended you.
Ediths grin made her face shine. Youre tough because you fight for your patients. I like that.
I can see that were going to get along. Jason remembered Heathers comment that Edith had a thick hide. Good. He didnt want to worry about accidentally wounding her ego if he snapped at her under pressure. Most likely, shed bark right back at him the moment they were alone. Fair enough.
An almost subliminal scent tantalized Jasons nostrils. Heather must have arrived for her tour of the new clinic. His subconscious made the connection even before he saw her.
Hello, Dr. Rourke. Hows everything going with you? Edith asked the smaller woman hovering outside in the hall.
Fine. Its good to see you. Briskly, Heather came inside.
An auburn curl straggling along one cheek was the only sign of weariness despite what must have been a long day. Having shed her white coat, she wore a dark skirt and a tailored beige blouse that, in spite of some discreet tucks, sketched her generous curves.
Jason tore his gaze away. He had the uncomfortable sense that both women had noticed where he was looking.
Were going to check out the clinic, he told Edith. Care to join us?
Meaningfully, her chocolate eyes fixed on Heather and him in turn. Like my mother used to say, threes a crowd, said the nurse. Right now, this office is so small, I can hardly breathe. Guess Id better go make sure the Records Department has sent over those patients charts for next week. I know how you hate inefficiency. Fanning herself with one hand, she stepped outside and closed the door behind her.
Heathers cheeks turned an appealing pink. Shes not very subtle, Im afraid.
About what? Faced with potential embarrassment, Jason had learned that the best response was to pretend you didnt get the point.
Forget it. She brushed a speck of lint off her blouse, seemingly unaware of how the action emphasized the shape beneath the clothing. Jason struggled to keep his breathing regular.
From the moment theyd met, during registration at a convention hotel in Atlanta, hed felt the same powerful pull toward her. He found it hard to believe that, even jet-lagged and having consumed a couple of drinks, hed blacked out as quickly as Heather claimed. Not with such a powerful yearning coursing through him.
Something had happened that night. Jason felt like an idiot for not being able to remember, but that was no excuse for her keeping him in the dark. Heathers earring hadnt landed in his bed by remote control.
Even though it might take a while to pry out the information, he was determined to get an answer. How he responded once he got it would depend on what he learned.
Ill buy you a cup of coffee at the kiosk on the way over. Jason opened the door for her. Unless youve had too much caffeine today.
Theres no such thing in this profession. Now that you mention it, if I dont get some more, I may keel over. Heather was so short, she walked under his outstretched arm and cleared it by an inch.
With hardly any effort, Jason could have drawn her against his chest and buried his face in her hair. Rejecting the image, he decided he needed that coffee even more than she did.
Chapter Two
Heather had avoided the first floor of the East Wing since the remodeling began, due to the noise, the sawdust in the air and the hazards of trying to make her way through construction clutter. With Jason as her guide, however, she found herself fascinated.
The work had progressed much further than shed realized, transforming the area formerly leased to an outside group of pediatricians. The altered layout of the walls showed Heather a state-of-the-art facility, with examining rooms and surgical suites plus an extensive laboratory where theyd be able to offer in vitro fertilization and the whole alphabet soup of new technologies.
In a few short decades, medicine had surpassed what science fiction had proposed when Heather was in high school. In addition to egg donations and embryo transfers, researchers had developed such exotic procedures as AH, or assisted hatching, in which a small opening was etched in the outer coating of the early embryo to help it implant in the womb.
The pace of research had intensified to the point where Heather spent her free time catching up on medical journals, reading research papers and attending conferences. No matter what people thought, she was grateful to have Jason on staff with his advanced training and experience.
She was less grateful for the mans overwhelming physical presence, not to mention the impulsive way he picked her up and lifted her over a row of boxes blocking her path. His large hands proved surprisingly gentle on her waist, the thumbs clamping lightly across her rib cage, the fingers nudging the skin below her breasts.
Ripples of desire flowed through her, speeding up Heathers breathing and spurring a sharp, Technicolor memory.
When he caught her nipples in his mouth, heat slammed into her, so intense it was almost painful. Lying on the hotel bed, Heather caressed his thick, black hair with a sense of delicious disbelief. Shed only met this man today. What was she doing? And how many times could they do it again during a three-day convention?
The directors office is this way. Jason, seemingly unaffected after lifting her, led the way past the examining rooms. You can pick which of the other offices youd prefer.
Ill take one as far from yours as possible. Had she said that aloud? Heather managed a smile. Im kidding, of course.
Its up to you. Surely that was studied indifference on Jasons handsome face, not the real thing, she thought, then wondered why she cared.
They stepped through an anteroom into his future office, which consisted of bare walls, rough wooden flooring and a curtainless window. From against the baseboards, Jason hoisted a couple of sketches washed with pastels.
Dr. Barr asked what I thought of his commissioning a mural for the hall, a motif that would carry through the examining rooms. He handed her the samples. Heres what the designer is proposing. What do you think?
The artist had a clever touch with babies, Heather mused as she examined the drawings. Each sketch showed a lively youngster, its face alight with precocious emotions. Rounded and full of life, the infants nearly leaped off the paper and into her arms. They reminded her of some photographs her friend Amy Ravenna Ladd, Doctors Circles resident psychologist, had installed in her office.
From your expression, I gather you like them, Jason said.
Theyre marvelous. Heather held them up, trying to imagine how they might figure into a mural. Still, some patients find it painful to be constantly reminded of the babies they cant have.
Maybe we should post drawings of ancient fertility symbols, he teased.
I suspect theyd prefer male movie stars, she said drily. That ought to put them in a fertile mood. Although she didnt intend to tell him so, she doubted anyone was going to need pictures of movie stars with Dr. Jason Carmichael around.
Some of our patients are men, he pointed out.
Ill allow a few photos of beautiful women, Heather said, adding, In the mens bathroom.
Whatever youve been doing until now, I was impressed by the statistics on your success rate, Jason said. Of course, even if I hadnt read the documents, I could tell just by looking around Doctors Circle. There seem to be a lot of pregnant staff members.
Heather handed the sketches back to him. I dont deserve all the credit. Some women manage fine by themselves.
I noticed that your nurse is pregnant, Jason said. Isnt she uncomfortable, working so close to her due date?
She wants to save as much leave as possible for after the twins are born, Heather admitted. Since shes a single mom She stopped, not wanting to reveal more of Cynthias situation than necessary.
I see. Jason frowned. As the single mother of two infants, she could have a hard time keeping up with your schedule. Perhaps she and the father will prefer that she switch to a less rigorous schedule.
The fathers out of the picture entirely. She pressed her lips together, not wanting to say anything further.
Im sorry to hear it, for everyones sake. He shook his head. Shes going to be exhausted and distracted. If she starts making mistakes that affect patient care, shell have to be transferred.
Shell be fine. Heather wasnt sure why she bristled at his tone, since she shared the same concerns. But after providing excellent assistance for several years, Cynthia had earned her loyalty. She loves working with me. She doesnt want any other position.
Then she should have thought things out more carefully in advance, Jason said.
How dare he blame the pregnancy on Cynthia when she already had enough problems? Are you blaming her for having an accident?
No, but Jason seemed briefly at a loss for words. Finally, he said, As an obstetrical nurse, she surely has the knowledge to prevent this kind of situation.
People have been known to get carried away by their passions, Heather said. Not that I need to mention any names.
She saw by the way his eyes widened that shed hit her target. Youre changing your story? Its no longer that nothing happened. Now its that we got carried away by our impulses?
We went part of the way before you fell asleep, Heather said. Thats all.
Im willing to believe that in my less-than-optimal condition, my memory lost what must have been a delicious experience. Jason moved closer, looming over her. Heather had to fight the impulse to take a step backward. But youre saying that I fell asleep in the middle of making love to you? Thats going a bit far. Im thirty-six, not ninety-six.
What difference does it make? she snapped. Whatever we did, its over.
Id like to know where I stand.
A little too close for comfort, frankly.
Deliberately, he shifted toward her. Let me know when youre ready to run screaming into the woods.
I should warn you, I know karate. And several other Japanese words.
That wont do any good. The highest you could kick would be my kneecap. He grinned. You know, the two of us really should spend more time together. Maybe my memories will flood back.
My memory doesnt need refreshing. Heather had to tilt her head to meet his gaze. Anything you want to know, youre free to ask. But since you made it clear the next morning that you had no interest in pursuing the matter, Im surprised you keep harping on it now.
Jason reached out and brushed an errant curl off her temple. His touch shivered straight into parts of Heather that she considered off-limits to him or anybody else. In my hungover condition, I may have muttered something less than gallant. For that, I apologize.
Your exact words, as I recall, were, Whatever happened last night, I trust Ill hear nothing further about it. A slight tremor undermined Heathers tone. Darn it, she didnt want to show any vulnerability around Jason.
He had no right to know how much hed wounded her. For the first time in years, shed begun to open up to a man, only to have him throw it in her face.
If shed had different life experiences, she might have found his attitude merely churlish and dismissed it from her mind. To a woman whod been abandoned as a teenager by the man shed loved and trusted, however, his rejection had struck her like a physical blow.
Did I really say that? Jason asked. Ouch.
Those were your exact words. I already explained that theres nothing wrong with my memory. Heather was preparing a few more sharp remarks when she saw him focus on a spot behind her and realized someone had come into the room.
She turned, already knowing there was only one person at Doctors Circle who could approach that quietly on bare floors. Coral Liu possessed an inner calm that had impressed Heather from the moment the young woman started work in January. Even now, when she was probably quaking inside at facing her boss, her smooth, intelligent face showed only respect.
I hope Im not interrupting. Coral held up a catalog of office furniture. Mrs. Barr asked me to show you this. I thought it might be helpful to make your selections while youre in the new office, so you can picture how things would fit.
With an impatient expulsion of breath, Jason took the catalog. I dont have much of an eye for interior decorating.
Coral bit her lip. Jasons slight sign of impatience bothered her, Heather could tell. It was too bad such a rough-edged man had been paired with a sensitive secretary, although she knew Natalie had interviewed a number of applicants before recommending Coral.
I took the liberty of drawing a floor plan, if youd care to look at it, the secretary said.
Sure. Jason didnt lift his eyes from the catalog as he flipped through.
Coral handed Heather a sheet of paper. Although the markings had been sketched with a tentative hand, the young woman had done a careful job of arranging the desk, a couch, chairs and filing cabinets. Looks good to me.
Jason gave it a quick glance. Might work. Ill give it a more thorough going-over later. He handed everything back to Coral. Put these on my desk, please.
Yes, Dr. Carmichael. She turned away, disappointment clouding her eyes. Apparently shed hoped her floor plan would draw a more positive response.
Oh, Coral. One more thing.
She stopped, her slim back rigid, and turned to face him.
On second thought, I realize it wasnt such a bad idea to unpack my files and books, Jason said. We wont be moving for at least a month, and Id have hated not being able to find things when I needed them. In future, just check with me before doing something like that, okay?
Yes, sir. After giving him a shy smile, Coral retreated. Her shoulders, Heather noticed, had relaxed.
What were we talking about? Jason asked after Coral had left. Something important, I recall.
Heather refused to resume the discussion of their ill-starred encounter in Atlanta. We were reviewing the mural. I approve of it. Babies, babies everywhere sets the right tone.
Ill tell Patrick. As I said before, decorating isnt my strong point. Despite his well-known dislike of wasting time, Jason appeared in no hurry to move on. The rest of our new staff should be on board before April. Ill forward their bios to you, if youre interested.
Id like that. Time to make her getaway, Heather decided. Thanks for showing me around. I have to be going.
You havent picked your office.
Ill leave that to you, she said. Ive got an appointment.
Although technically she was finished at five oclock, infertility patients had to be seen during their optimal times of the month, which werent always predictable. Some of the women also contended with rigid work schedules, so Heather made a point of staying flexible.
Ill see you later, then. Jason didnt suggest walking back across the plaza together, to her relief.
Once she was out in the fresh air, Heathers spirits rose. With luck, they had put that entire Atlanta business behind them. With a little more luck, the sensual awareness vibrating between them would abate as soon as familiarity bred boredom. Any day now.
She marched across the courtyard, her sensible pumps clicking confidently against the pavement.
TELL ME AGAIN what was wrong with this one, Rob Sentinel said as he and Jason emerged from the third apartment building theyd visited.
Jason appreciated the young obstetricians offer to spend part of Saturday ferrying him around town. As a recent arrival himself, Rob knew the ropes of apartment hunting.
There was no built-in microwave, Jason said.
Thats what I thought you said. I just didnt believe it. They sell microwaves at discount stores, you know. Rob sounded impatient, which was understandable, considering that hed given up a chance to play golf with George today.
Ive already accumulated more stuff than I want. Jason knew it didnt make sense, his dislike of loading himself down with material possessions. Still, with only a few clothes, a small TV and a boom box, hed been able to ship everything easily from Virginia.
If he had good financial sense, hed buy a place, his mother had advised in a phone call from Boston. Being a real estate agent, she figured he was making a mistake by not investing now that he appeared to be putting down roots.
Certainly Jason didnt plan to change jobs any time soon. Possibly not for many years.
Yet in the past thered been timesone in particular, after his engagement had fallen apartwhen both his personal and professional lives had benefited from his ability to pack up and move on short notice. He wasnt ready to give up that freedom yet.
Hold on. Rob paused next to his car and folded his arms. Didnt you ask me earlier whether any of the apartments allowed dogs? A dog isnt exactly what Id call a minor acquisition.
It was an idle question. Jason had always dreamed of having a dog. His parents, who took pride in their spotless Brookline home, had nixed the idea while he was growing up, and hed had no opportunity since then. Maybe when I retire, Ill buy a large place and a dog to go with it. I dont know why I bothered asking today. It just popped into my head.
For some reason, he wondered whether Heather liked dogs. Hed spent the last couple of days wondering about Heathers taste in a lot of things, although hed been too busy to seek her out again.
Your subconscious might be sending you a signal, said his companion.
Excuse me? How on earth had Rob figured out that he was thinking about Heather?
The dog. If thats what you really want, were taking the wrong approach. The obstetrician leaned against the car. I dont think an apartment is what you need.
If youre about to suggest I invest in real estate, stop right there, Jason said.
I was thinking more along the lines of renting a house or a town house, the younger doctor said. Thats what Dr. Rourke does.
Oh? He tried to sound casual, although he found himself intensely interested in hearing more. Where does she live?
In a town house development on Bordeaux Avenue. Thats in the northeastern part of town, Rob said. Id have rented there myself if it were closer to the beach.
Do they allow pets? That would be ideal, Jason thought.
I dont know, said the other doctor. You could ask her about it on Monday.
I dont want to wait that long. Im tired of the hotel. He was impatient to get settled and curious to see where Heather lived, too. Why dont we swing by there and take a look at her place?
I dont know her unit number. Besides, shes probably not home. Obviously, Rob wasnt eager to make another stop. If he were getting tired of the apartment hunt, Jason couldnt blame him.
Youve been great today, he said. Youve given me a good idea of whats available. Why dont you drop me at my hotel? I can take it from there.
I promised to help, Rob said stubbornly. Besides, you dont know your way around town.
Ive got a map, he pointed out, then added the kicker. Its still early enough to hit the golf course.
The man ran through several expressions as he waged an internal debate. All right. The call of the links had won out. Ill take you back, but let me know if you need more help.
You bet. Jason didnt plan to do anything of the sort.
At his hotel, he thanked Rob. As soon as the man was out of sight, Jason called Patricks home. The administrator had given him the number in case of weekend or evening problems that required his immediate attention.
Patricks wife, Natalie, answered. After Jason explained that he wanted to check out the town houses, she gave him Heathers address and cell phone number. Im not sure if shes home, Natalie said. She volunteers in a program for unwed mothers on Saturday mornings.
Into Jasons mind flashed their conversation on Wednesday about the pregnant nurse, along with Heathers sharp reaction. Had she misinterpreted his remarks as an insult toward unmarried mothers? Hed only meant to point out that, if anyone knew enough to take precautions, it ought to be an obstetrical nurse.
Its nearly noon, he said. She might be home.
You can call her, Natalie said.
I appreciate the information.
Good luck on finding a place.
Thanks. Jason didnt mean to mislead her, but, as he rang off, hed already decided not to bother calling in advance.
Heather might tell him to stay away. And he had no intention of doing that.
Chapter Three
Pushing up on her hands and knees, the baby rocked her little body forward, lost her balance and plopped onto the carpet. Doggedly, she hoisted herself up again and began rocking once more.
Shes trying to crawl, Heather said in delight.
Wait! Ill get my camera. Her daughter Olive ran for the digital apparatus, which was never far away. I have to send John a shot.
Hes getting out of the marines next month, Heather pointed out. Hell be able to watch her crawl and stand and walk before you know it.
I cant bear for him to miss any of it. Hes miserable that he wasnt here for her birth. Crouching, Olive took aim and snapped a shot just as Ginger flopped onto her side and opened her mouth to bawl. Oh, no. Thats going to look awful.
Its cute, Heather said. Everything she does is cute.
Typical grandmother. Her daughter smiled indulgently. Even if you are ridiculously young.
You think shes cute, too!
Granted, but I dont dote on her the way you do. With an arch look, Olive added, Maybe if you could brag about her to your friends, youd get it out of your system.
I do brag about her to my friends.
Only Natalie and Amy. Olive stretched onto her stomach, keeping the baby in the frame. When it came to taking pictures, she had a lot of patience. I know youre not ashamed of us, Mom, but you need to get over being ashamed of yourself.
That was perceptive for a twenty-one-year-old woman, Heather reflected. Things have changed. When I got pregnant out of wedlock, people sneered at me. I was held up as a bad example.
Oh, come on! Even twenty years ago, nobody believed that old business about fallen women.
Youd be surprised.
Olive clicked quietly as Ginger tried again. This time, the baby managed to move her arms and legs fast enough to keep her balance as she lurched forward. She did it!
Im going to get my camera, too, Heather said. Dont let her grow up before I get back.
Shed scarcely taken two steps before the phone rang in the kitchen. It was John, making one of his rare overseas calls to his fiance. After they exchanged greetings, she went to get her daughter.
Olive vanished to take the call. In the living room, Heather indulged herself by shooting a series of photos as Ginger bumbled her way along the carpet, making a colorful splash with her yellow jumpsuit and carrot-colored hair.
Although Olive and Ginger had been staying here for five months, she still could hardly believe shed not only been reunited with her daughter, shed also gained a granddaughter. It was more than shed ever dared hope for.
Heather had been a confused fifteen-year-old when she got pregnant by her eighteen-year-old boyfriend, Ned. A handsome young man with a tan complexion and dark hair like Olives, hed sworn he adored her and wanted to marry her somedayuntil he discovered that she was with child.
The first words out of his mouth had been, Its not mine. Shocked, shed burst into tears. He was the only man shed ever been with, shed pointed out. They loved each other, didnt they? Surely he was going to stand by her.
What a fool shed been! For the next few weeks, Ned had avoided her. When Heather showed up at the auto repair shop where he worked, hed ordered her off the premises.
Shed spent a miserable week confiding in no one, telling herself Ned would come to his senses. Finally shed dropped by his house. His mother had fixed her with an angry glare.
Hes gone, the woman had said. Dont ask me where. Its your fault. He should never have gotten mixed up with a tramp like you.
Stunned and frightened by the thought of what lay ahead, Heather had cried until her eyes were raw, then gone home and confessed to her parents. Seeing the disappointment in their faces had been almost as bad as experiencing Neds betrayal.
Her father, a truck driver, and her mother, a supermarket checker, had always encouraged Heather and her brother to focus on their studies and aim for the stars. News of the pregnancy had hit them hard.
They hadnt rejected her, though. Their love had made life bearable while she attended an alternative high school and suffered snubs from former friends. When the baby was born, Heather had known she wasnt prepared to raise a child, so shed tearfully given her up for adoption. At every point, her parents had delivered their support without question.
Ill never let you down again, shed told them, and she hadnt. When she graduated from college, the first person in her family to do so, theyd been thrilled, and shed been pleased when her brother followed in her footsteps.
Earning her medical degree, although it required financial sacrifices of everyone, had filled them with pride. So had Heathers brothers decision to become a police officer.
Over the years, shed always wondered where her little girl was and hoped she was loved. Although Heather had never doubted the wisdom of her decision, shed ached for the child she would never see.
A few years ago, shed signed up with a service that matched parents and birth children, in case her daughter ever wanted to find her. About a year ago, shed received a call.
Olives beloved adoptive parents had died in an accident while she was in college. Engaged to a marine, pregnant and temporarily alone while he served overseas, shed sought to connect with the woman whod given birth to her.
As soon as they met, theyd become best friends. From her flashing brown eyes to her sense of humor, Olive seemed like a younger sister. Even the parts of her that came from Ned, like her dark hair and slim build, were a gift, in Heathers opinion. The man was a fool whod lost much more than hed taken.
She could never regret having this daughter and granddaughter, no matter how much theyd cost her. And she knew her parents, whod met them at Christmas, no longer regretted it, either.
Thered been plenty of speculation at Doctors Circle last fall when Heather, without explanation, took two months leave to coach Olive through the birth and spend time with her afterward. Office gossip attributed her absence to pique at Jasons appointment, and shed done nothing to correct the impression. It made as good an excuse as any, since she had no intention of subjecting her painful past to the scrutiny of others.
Afterward, the pair had come to live here while John wrapped up his service. Olive, whod grown up only an hours drive away in Los Angeles, had finished earning her degree at nearby Serene College. This month, shed taken her last final and completed her work. Soon, John would be returning.
Heather didnt want to think about how much she was going to miss living with her daughter and granddaughter. Strange as it seemed, she enjoyed having her once-tranquil living room crammed with a playpen and toys and she loved being called Mom, an honor Olive had spontaneously bestowed upon her. She hoped the new family would settle nearby so she could watch every step, literally and figuratively, of Gingers development.
Mom! Olive sprinted into the living room. Im so excited! John wants to get married as soon as he arrives. He cant bear to wait, and neither can I! Were going to have our wedding next month.
Im pleased for you. Relief was Heathers first reaction. Shed never met her future son-in-law in person, and until now had had only Olives assurances that he was loving and rock-solid. Thank goodness John hadnt turned out to be a cad like Ned.
Its been so lonely with him gone, and now well be together all the time. Joy made Olive shimmer as she sang, Here comes the bride! Big, fat and wide! Not!
Despite Heathers happiness for her daughter, reality intruded. A little less than three weeks. That was all the time they had until John returned.
How will we ever be able to put a wedding together? she cried. Oh, honey, Im sorry. I dont mean to be a spoilsport and I know Amy managed hers in a week, but I have no idea where to begin.
Amy and Quent Ladd had married quickly in order to gain custody of his orphaned niece and nephew. Theyd been assisted by Amys highly capable Aunt Mary, whod offered the use of her large home for the ceremony and reception. This town home, despite its vaulted ceiling and graceful design, wasnt nearly big enough, in Heathers opinion.
Youre such a worrier, chortled her daughter. Were going to get married at a Las Vegas wedding chapel. The only guests will be you and Johns parents from Texas. Youll bring the baby home and watch her for me during our honeymoon, wont you? Were going to celebrate right there in Vegas.
Of course, Heather said.
Olive performed an impromptu dance that made Ginger laugh. Your daddys coming home! Im going to be a bride!
You need a dress, Heather said.
John told me to pick out a ring, too. Olive started for the kitchen again.
Where are you going?
To call my friend Julia to help me shop. I know how impatient you get in stores, her daughter said. Dont argue. Ill let you see what I choose before I make the final decision, okay?
All right. Despite her sense that the mother of the bride ought to have a finger in every pie, Heather knew that after one hour in the mall, shed start tapping her foot and biting her nails. Leave the baby with me while you shop.
Julia would have a fit. Shes always complaining that she doesnt get to spend enough time with Ginger.
Babies dont make good shopping companions. Shell get restless, Heather warned.
Well take lots of breaks, Olive said. Dont fuss over me, Mom. Not that I really mind. Gosh, youre so much like my mama used to be, I almost feel like shes here.
Im sure she is. Heather felt a deep gratitude to the woman whod raised Olive. Shell always be here in your heart.
Her daughters eyes got suspiciously bright. She hurried to stuff supplies into the diaper bag. By the time she whisked Ginger out the door, Olive was dry-eyed and eager to look for a gown.
After the door closed, the two most precious people in Heathers life were gone, if only for a little while. The sparkle vanished from the air.
So this is what empty-nest syndrome feels like, she told the silent house. Its not as if Id spent twenty years being a mother. I shouldnt make such a big deal of it.
With a sigh, she bent to pick up the scattered toys that had accumulated on the carpet along with bits of lint and shreds of paper. They must be transporting themselves here from an alternate universe, because Heather had never figured out where all this stuff came from.
The doorbell rang. Olive had forgotten something, which wasnt surprising in view of her rush. Pushing a flyaway strand of hair from her forehead, Heather went to answer the door.
The dark-haired man who filled the doorway regarded her with amused curiosity. Just getting up, at this hour? he asked.
Uncomfortably, Heather realized what a picture she must make. After rising early to feed Ginger while Olive slept, shed showered and thrown on a sweatsuit that resembled pajamas. Although shed brushed her hair, that was many hours and diaper changes ago.
Jason, by contrast, looked as if hed strolled out of a magazine ad. It was positively indecent the way his polo shirt stretched across his broad chest and his jeans hung low across his hips. It looked as if one tweak would be enough to make the snap give way.
Stop thinking like that! Im getting a head start on my spring cleaning, Heather improvised. What can I do for you?
Im house-hunting and got curious about where you lived. With a swift motion, he plucked a wisp of paper from her hair. Did you hold a confetti parade through your premises this morning? He peered past her into the entryway.
With a jolt, Heather realized that if she opened the door any further, hed see the playpen in the living room and the high chair visible through the doorway in the kitchen. Not to mention assorted toys and parenting magazines.
Yes, I had a parade, and thats why you cant come in, she said tartly. Theres horse poop everywhere.
Jasons smile turned into a grimace. Thats the weirdest excuse Ive ever heard.
For what?
For keeping me out.
Women make a lot of excuses for keeping you out, do they? Heather said. The truth is, as you can see, Im in no shape to receive company.
He composed his features into a semblance of injured innocence. Im simply looking for ideas about what kind of place to rent.
Thats easy. Dont rent, buy, Heather said. Thats what Im going to do as soon as I save the down payment. If she hadnt been repaying student loans until the previous year, shed have purchased a house long ago.
If youre planning to close the door on my foot, it wont work, Jason said. Im wearing heavy shoes.
Why would I need to close the door on your foot, since youre going away?
He edged closer. I just want to take a look at the layout of your town house. Ive been thinking of renting here in the development.
Dismay squeezed the air from Heathers lungs. Jason, living in her complex? That would mean running into each other at the mailboxes and the pool. Hed see her in her bikini. What was worse, hed see Olive and Ginger.
Youd hate it, she said. Its noisy.
It seems quiet today. Sure enough, the only sounds were birds twittering in a tree and the hum of a car passing on the street. Im sure itll be fine.
Dropping the noise angle, Heather shifted to a more promising topic. You should check out the area where Amy and Quent Ladd live, near the beach. Its much more suitable for a single person.
Why dont you live there? he asked.
Because Im stuffy and conventional. This wasnt working, she could tell by his stubborn stance. Ill tell you what. Wait out there while I change, and Ill take you to meet the manager. Im sure shed be happy to
Hed leaned a bit too far toward her. Even a strong guy like Jason could only challenge gravity so far before he lost his balance, and at the merest bump from his strong shoulder, Heather staggered backward. The door swung wider.
Im sorry. Jason grabbed her arm in time to prevent a tumble. Im not usually this clumsy. His head came up as he took in the contents of the room. There was a long, contemplative pause. When did you start running a day-care center?
Believe it or not, one baby created all this mess. My niece and her daughter are visiting. Heather hated to lie, but if there was anyone she didnt choose to bare her soul to, it was Jason Carmichael. Especially after that comment about how Cynthia should have known better than to get pregnant out of wedlock.
Great architecture. Apparently accepting her explanation, he indicated the high ceiling and open staircase. Hows the construction?
On the verge of praising it, she remembered her goal of discouraging him from renting in the complex. The upstairs bathroom tilts. There are cracks in the walls, too. That was true, more or less. Practically every wall in Southern California had a few cosmetic cracks, thanks to the occasional earthquakes.
Theres got to be some reason you chose to live here, he said.
Darn the man, why did he insist on questioning her so closely? He took far too great an interest in Heathers home for her comfort.
Ill show you, she said, deciding openness was the only way to satisfy his curiosity. Follow me.
She led him through the living room. The angles and sightlines felt different when she tried to regard them from Jasons point of view. Or perhaps it was his thoroughly male, keenly inquisitive presence that changed everything.
He radiated a subtle energy, a vibration that filled the town house. Heather battled the instinct to touch him. In spite of herself, she knew where that could lead and wasnt absolutely certain shed be able to stop.
In the kitchen, Jasons eyebrows rose at the sight of the high chair. Your niece brought a lot of equipment for a visit.
Shes staying with me while she finishes college, Heather clarified. On the point of mentioning that Olive was getting married next month, she stopped. Guilty people gave themselves away by prattling too much, and the more she talked, the more suspicious he was likely to become.
Youre a gracious aunt to put up with all this mess, he said.
Heathers gaze traveled across the unwashed dishes on the counter to a bib smeared with breakfast food. She supposed it was disorderly from the point of view of a man who had only himself to care for. Until this moment, shed hardly noticed. I dont mind. Its only temporary.
At least the kitchen is a good size, he said approvingly.
Heather tried to find some flaw to point out, but failed. Reaching the glass door, she slid it open and stepped onto the enclosed patio. This is the reason I rented the place. She indicated a small flowerbed bursting with cool-weather flowers suitable for a Southern California winter.
Its very pretty. You like to garden? Jason asked.
Id love to have a whole yard full of flowers. Heathers mind painted the scene as she spoke. Rose bushes in every corner and climbing on a trellis. I want enough blooms for cutting and the air filled with old-fashioned perfume.
Youve got it planned out, I see. Jason edged away, or perhaps he was turning to examine a potted coleus. I cant imagine where you find the time.
Gardenings restful, Heather said. Digging in the dirt settles my mind.
His teasing manner of a few minutes ago disappeared. It looks to me like a lot of effort for a place youre going to leave behind eventually. Heather could have sworn she saw disapproval in the way he regarded the rioting flowerbed.
Sticking a few bedding plants into the ground isnt exactly a lifetime commitment, she said. Besides, these are annual flowers. They have to be replaced a couple of times a year in any case.
Suit yourself, Jason said.
She couldnt resist teasing him. If you decide to lease a unit, Ill be glad to offer you tips. You might become a real aficionado.
I cant imagine investing that much effort in something Im going to leave behind, Jason answered. Its a waste of effort.
How soon are you planning to move on? Heather leaned down and yanked a weed.
In the midday light, Jasons green eyes took on a hard emerald gloss. Not soon, of course, but lets be honest. Although heading this clinic is a terrific opportunity, I dont picture myself sticking around forever.
No roses and no roots, Heather said. How sad.
Jason shrugged. A house is just a place.
She imagined him as an old man, living in Spartan quarters, still refusing to commit himself to anything beyond his profession. Feeling a pinch of regret, she conceded silently that, without meaning to, shed begun to picture Jason in a romantic light. The man was so darn handsome, and the way he moved sent shivers down her spine.
She ought to know better. Thank goodness hed brought her up short today. There were good men in the world, such as her friends husbands, but they were few and far between. Too many were like Ned, quick to promise the moon and ready to run when a woman needed them.
Or like Jason, who valued only the professional side of himself. There was no point in arguing with him. The man was as set in his ways as concrete.
After dusting off her hands, Heather took him back inside. Id show you the bedrooms but theyre in worse shape than the kitchen.
A subdued Jason didnt press the point. Thanks for the tour. Ill see you at work on Monday.
Good luck finding a place to live. Although it might be unwise, she found herself adding, Did you decide against renting a town house?
Its a bit large for a single guy. I wouldnt want to inadvertently encourage any relatives to move in with me, particularly ones with babies, he said, and let himself out.
Maybe he was joking, but Heather didnt find the remark funny. She was tempted to throw one of Gingers toys at his retreating back.
She couldnt imagine why shed ever allowed herself to be attracted to that stuffed shirt. Okay, Jason could be charming when he turned the frost level down to low, but with him, as with most men shed met, you never knew when you were going to get a blast of arctic air in the face.
Well, Heather had better things to do with her Saturday than stand here hurling mental insults at Jason Carmichael. Even a woman with a limited attention span for mall shopping could help her daughter get married.
She switched on her computer, logged on to the Internet and cruised the wedding-related websites, bookmarking pages with gowns she thought Olive might like. Being the mother of the bride provided a lot more satisfaction than shed ever found or ever expected to find with a man.
Chapter Four
The three puppies wiggled in their basket, barking excitedly and trying to pour over the edges. Two little boys whom Jason guessed to be about six and eight kept stuffing them back inside.
Hi, there. He crouched on the walkway and scratched each set of floppy ears in turn. Eager pink tongues swiped his hand and one pup, a shaggy black-and-tan shepherd mix, leaped as if trying to land in his lap.
You want one, mister? Theyre ten dollars. The older boy pointed at a hand-lettered sign for confirmation. Our mom says we cant keep them.
Neither can I, Im afraid. After spending Saturday and most of today exhausting rental possibilities, Jason had returned to Heathers development in earnest a short time earlier. Yesterday, hed been so put off by the notion of nesting that hed ignored a sign at the managers office advertising a unit for rent. He hadnt forgotten about it, though.
By comparison to everything else hed seen, hed found the empty town house to his liking. Located halfway across the complex from Heathers, it featured a similar layout and came furnished. The only vegetation on its patio was a ficus tree watered through an automatic system.
Jason had signed up immediately. The month-to-month lease meant that if he found something he liked better, he was free to move. Because of the location, there was no reason for him and Heather to get in each others way, and he appreciated the peace and quiet.
The one drawback was that renters werent allowed to have pets. The manager had explained that owner-occupants could keep animals as long as they didnt allow them to run loose. The boys family must be owners, Jason thought.
Thats Frodo. Hes my favorite. The younger boy indicated the black-and-tan pup, whose tail was wagging so hard that Jason half expected it to propel its owner into the air.
I cant have a dog because Im renting, he said.
The older boys face scrunched. Whats the use of being a grown-up if you cant have a dog?
Good point. Jason got to his feet. I hope you find homes for them.
Thanks, they chorused.
What was the use of being a grown-up if you couldnt have a puppy or roses or any other reasonable thing that you wanted? he mused. It was an internal discussion that would have surprised Heather Rourke, Jason supposed.
Hed certainly bristled when shed showed him her flower garden. Its blooming lushness had filled his senses with perfume and his soul with an intense yearning. For what, he wasnt sure, but hed yanked himself back to reality in a big hurry.
As he strolled around the complex to check out its amenities, Jason wondered if he would ever feel ready to settle down in one place or with one woman. He didnt believe in love sweeping people off their feet, though, especially not a scientist like him. Some guys werent cut out to be husbands, and he was one of them.
He tried to remember what impulse had prompted him to get engaged during his residency. Hed met Eileen, a law student at Boston University, through family friends. Theyd had a lot in common, including busy schedules, a taste for Greek food and a love of jazz. Eileen had understood about Jasons long hours and seemed to share his vision of a future devoted to becoming among the best in their fields.
Somewhere along the line, the subject of marriage had come up. Knowing that he needed a wife with similar goals and attitudes, Jason had fallen in with the idea. Both of them agreed that they wanted to work the long hours required by their professions, with children postponed indefinitely.
He tensed as he recalled his last year of residency. During a difficult period, hed driven himself harder and, he knew, become snappish to those around him. Perversely, Eileen had chosen that time to press him to set a date for their wedding.
Hed told her frankly that he couldnt handle getting married right then and needed the freedom to relocate if necessary. Her response had been tears and nagging. Jason knew he should have tried to understand, but he hadnt possessed the energy to deal with her. When a prominent institution in England invited him to pursue his work there after completing his residency, hed ended his engagement and removed himself from the situation.
Later, through friends, hed learned that Eileen had planned to drop out of law school and didnt want a demanding career. She wasnt crazy about Greek food or jazz, either. Their relationship had been built on her molding herself to suit him, without his realizing it. Perhaps she hadnt been honest with herself about what she was doing, either.
Although Jason regretted having disappointed her, marriage would have been a huge mistake. Perhaps that was why hed reacted so strongly to the flowers yesterday. Subconsciously, hed pegged Heather as being dedicated to her work, and it disturbed him to discover that at heart what she wanted was the whole picket-fence, rose-trellis scenario. Just like Eileen.
Seeing the playpen and toys in her living room had given him a start, too. Oddly, Jason had found them kind of appealing, although he was relieved to know they belonged to Heathers niece.
Babies were cute. So were little boys like the pair with the puppies. Their dad probably loved taking them to ball games and playing on the beach with them. Someday, Jason supposed, he might want kids of his own. Someday, like in another ten years.
Lost in thought, he didnt realize he was passing Heathers unit until he saw her standing in front, trimming dead blossoms from an azalea. In a tan T-shirt and beige jeans, she was shapely enough to catch any mans eye.
When she caught sight of Jason, her hand jerked and she mangled a branch. What are you doing here?
Im glad to see you, too, he said.
Heather ducked her head, acknowledging the veiled complaint. Youre right. Its nice to see you again, Dr. Carmichael. Did you have some questions about the care and feeding of rose bushes?
Im afraid not, he said. If you see me traipsing by later with my arms full, you can lend a hand if you care to.
Her half smile shaded into a frown. You rented a place?
He shrugged. Serene Beach turns out not to have a very big supply of available housing.
You swore youd decided against renting a town house.
That was before I looked all over town, Jason said. I honestly tried to find a place somewhere else. I combed the newspaper and an Internet referral service.
You havent been looking very long, Heather retorted mercilessly.
Im sick of the hotel and Ive got a busy week ahead. He knew it was a low blow, to use work as an excuse for encroaching on her territory, but it truly was part of the reason for his rush. Theres no reason for us to see each other except in passing.
Well run into each other at the pool, she countered.
The image that came to mind, of Heathers full breasts and slim waist displayed in a bikini, almost broke down Jasons determination to regard her purely as a colleague. His voice catching, he choked out, I dont plan to do much swimming.
Good. Returning her attention to the azalea, she cut the broken branch and tossed it into a plastic bucket. I trust you wont be running over to borrow a cup of sugar or a pair of pruning shears.
Scouts honor. She hadnt mentioned laundry detergent, he thought. He might run out of that.
And dont you dare go anywhere near my health club!
Which health club is that? he asked, his interest perking.
Never mind. Heather appeared fascinated by a weed near the base of the bush. Ill see you around.
You bet. Although he would have enjoyed lingering, Jason knew he had a lot to accomplish this evening.
With a wave, he strode away, his thoughts flying ahead to the process of moving. The heated buzz in his nervous system abated too slowly for comfort.
A health club, eh? Hed make a point of finding it. A man needed exercise, after all.
OH, COME ON, Mom, Olive said. You cant tell me his moving here doesnt mean he likes you. I cant wait to meet this guy!
Jason Carmichael is my boss and an annoying one, at that. Heather glowered. The last thing she wanted was for her daughter to start trying to pair them off.
That doesnt mean he cant be interested in you! Besides, hes your supervisor, not your boss. He doesnt have the power to fire you, does he?
No. The hospital administrator was the only one who had that right.
See? Olive crowed.
He needs a place to live. Thats all. Heather clicked to another page on the computer screen. What do you think of this one? I wasnt sure whether you liked scooped necklines.
So I can show off my nonexistent cleavage? Her daughter sighed. I wish Id inherited your figure, Mom.
You have a great figure!
Not as great as yours.
I have a hard time finding clothes that dont make me look fat, Heather protested.
What you look is stacked, Olive said. No wonder this hunky guy wants to be our neighbor.
When Heather had mentioned Jasons first visit the previous day, Olive had been too distracted by her armful of brochures and brainful of wedding ideas to pay much attention. After learning that hed actually rented a place, however, shed seized on the topic with glee.
Youve never met him, Heather pointed out. What makes you think hes hunky?
The little smile you wear every time you mention him. Leaning over her, Olive flicked from one web page to another so rapidly that Heather couldnt keep track of what they were looking at. She supposed you had to be under twenty-five to master that skill. You smile the same way whenever you see one of your favorite actors.
Oh, seriously! she scoffed.
Olive paused at a Victorian-style gown, studied it intently for about five seconds, then zoomed onward. Let me guess. Hes tall, dark and handsome.
Heather wondered if her daughter were psychic, since her taste in movie stars was wide-ranging. How on earth did you know that?
Because my father must have been. Olive paused in her surfing. Obviously I didnt get my coloring from you.
You have my eyes, though. Neds were darker. Heather smiled. Its funny how the red hair skipped a generation.
You havent met John yet, Olive pointed out.
In Olives favorite photo, they both wore ski caps and jackets. Until now, Heather hadnt realized shed never seen his hair.
He has red hair?
Like a carrot with a sunburn.
Olive logged off the Internet. She must be nearing wedding overload, at least for the moment. Besides, it was dinnertime.
The younger woman set the table while Heather made spaghetti. You should invite him for dinner, Olive said as she worked.
By him, should I assume you mean Jason? Heather checked the hot water, but it wasnt quite at a boil yet.
None other. Olive clinked down two plates.
Id be happy if I never saw him outside the office again. She meant it. Brisk professionalism was the best attitude to adopt where that man was concerned.
Whats his voice like? Olive turned to offer Ginger another spoonful of baby food. Strapped into her high chair, the little girl swallowed it hungrily.
What difference does it make?
Theres nothing like a sexy voice. Olive paused as if listening to something Heather couldnt hear. John has a slow, sensuous way of talking. I guess its the Texas accent. What kind of accent does Jason have?
Boston. Heather hadnt given it any thought until now. Not a strong one, though. And a deep voice, but she wasnt going to give her daughter the satisfaction of mentioning it.
Mom, have you had a serious relationship in your entire life? Olive resumed feeding Ginger. I mean, aside from my father?
After their reunion, Heather had related the story of their ill-starred romance, softened to depict Ned as immature rather than self-centered. To Heathers relief, her daughter had shown no interest in locating him.
No. I havent met a man I could love. Sometimes I doubt he exists. Although Heather dated from time to time, her self-protective instincts had led her to keep men at bay, at least until that night with Jason. In retrospect, she was grateful that hed fallen asleep. If theyd made love, his thoughtless remark the next morning would have been devastating.
Stop! Olive waved excitedly.
Looking down, Heather discovered shed been about to drop the uncooked spaghetti into the simmering tomato sauce instead of the boiling water. Oops. Thanks for warning me.
Dont try to convince me you werent daydreaming about someone of the male persuasion. Her daughter grinned. Care to mention any names?
Brad Pitt, Heather said quickly. Ewan McGregor. Heath Ledger.
Jason Carmichael? suggested her impish tormentor.
Why does he fascinate you so much? Heather stirred the spaghetti with a pasta fork, separating the strands.
Its long past time you got over my father being such a jerk. Apparently Olive had drawn her own conclusions about Neds behavior despite Heathers attempt to spare her the worst. Maybe its because John and I are so happy that I want you to find the right man, too.
I have no problem with that, said Heather. When I find him, Ill let you know.
Sure you will. Skepticism rang in every word.
Heather hoped this was the last shed hear of the topic. She didnt need a matchmaker living in the same house, particularly one whod seized on the misguided notion that there was some kind of chemistry between her and Jason.
With luck, plans for the wedding would put the whole thing out of Olives mind soon enough, she told herself, and switched off the burner under the tomato sauce.
THE PATIENT was thirty-four years old and had been trying to get pregnant for five years. She and her husband had undergone a battery of tests with no definitive explanation for their infertility, which was often the case despite advances in medicine.
Loretta Arista was also, Jason knew, the public relations director at Doctors Circle. Shed organized a press conference for him last fall to announce his appointment to this position.
Sitting across the desk from her, he recommended in vitro fertilization, which she hadnt yet tried. Its a lot simpler than it used to be, Jason said. We no longer have to perform surgery. Both the egg retrieval and the implantation are out-patient procedures.
Thats good. Loretta hugged herself defensively. She had short, dark hair with a vivid white streak in the front.
Its basically a three-week procedure. Jason produced a brochure to illustrate his words. For two weeks, youll be intensively prepped with hormones.
When the eggs were ripe, they would be removed with a needle under local anesthesia and grown in a laboratory for several days. After fertilization with her husbands sperm, they would be implanted in her womb. The odds of a pregnancy resulting were about one in four.
That means a 75 percent chance of failure, doesnt it? Loretta explained that her sister, Rita, was pregnant with triplets, which only made her more eager to have a child herself.
I understand. Jason was pleased to see from her file that Loretta had been seeing the staff counselor to deal with the emotional fallout of infertility. Have you and your husband considered adoption?
We already went through the home-study process, but I understand its difficult to find an infant, Loretta said. Besides, Im not ready to adopt yet. Can my eggs be ready when the embryologist comes on board in two weeks?
The timing looks good. Lets set up our next appointment and well get started, Jason said.
Thanks, Doctor. Is it okay if I put on my public relations hat now?
Of course. He grinned at the metaphor.
Loretta visibly relaxed, becoming more animated as she switched gears. I want to photograph you in the new facility when its closer to completion. Ill need to interview you and the embryologist for a press kit, too.
Just let my secretary know what day would be convenient, he said.
After she left, Edith appeared. Can you help her?
I hope so, he said. Wait, dont say it. I know we have to keep the love flowing around here.
His nurse chuckled. You got that right.
The rest of the day flew by, with patients lined up for appointments. Many, he concluded after reviewing their charts, were candidates for the latest techniques. Like Loretta, most couldnt wait to start.
After work, Jason stopped by the supermarket. Having transferred his few possessions to his new home yesterday, hed been too tired to do more than send out for pizza.
On his way to the checkout stand, a bag of puppy food landed in his cart. One minute he was passing a display of chow, and the next minute there it was, nestled among his selections. Jason nearly put it back, until he told himself that he should give it to the little boys. Maybe it would convince their mother to let them keep Frodo.
At the town house, he stowed the puppy food near the washing machine and fixed himself a meal of rotisserie chicken, mashed potatoes and salad. Afterward, silence settled over the town house like a shroud. He hadnt realized how much larger this place was than the bachelor flat hed leased in Virginia.
Jason threw on a light jacket and went out for a walk. What a peaceful place this was, he reflected as he admired the lavender azaleas and orange-and-purple birds of paradise. As he passed one unit after another, he heard the murmur of voices and the clink of pots and pans.
When he was growing up, his mother had often missed dinner while selling houses and his father, a doctor, had frequently worked late, too. Still, theyd made a point of dining together two or three times a week.
Meals were meant to be sociable. Jason shoved his hands into his pockets and hurried on.
On the far side of the pool and spa enclosure, he heard yipping noises coming from one of the units. Jason didnt even have to think about it. He walked right up and knocked on the door.
It was answered by the older boy hed met on Sunday. I dont suppose Frodos still for sale, is he? he heard himself ask.
I thought you werent allowed to have pets, the boy replied.
Did the kid have to have such a good memory? Im not, he said. I was asking for a friend.
The boys father came to the door and introduced himself as Gordon Gray. While they were shaking hands, a small black-and-tan whirlwind flung itself at Jason, leaping at him until he couldnt resist picking it up. His reward was to have his chin sandpapered by an eager tongue.
After he explained that he was considering buying the pup but was concerned about leaving it alone all day, the man said, My wife, Alice, runs a service, taking dogs for walks. That way they dont get so lonely.
It sounds perfect, Jason said.
The dog was still for sale and the price of Alices service proved reasonable. Jason tried not to think about the fact that he was breaking his newly signed lease by acquiring a pet. After a lifetime spent living by the rules, he figured he was entitled to a minor infraction.
There was also the issue of whether hed be able to take a dog with him to wherever he might move in the future. Jason decided to worry about that when the time came.
He tucked Frodo inside his jacket, where the pup settled contentedly, and went outside. Some brave soul had ventured out to soak in the spa, he realized when he heard the rumble of the jets. As long as the pool gates were unlocked, he might as well cut through to get back to his place.
Halfway across, Jason came abreast of the spa. Steam formed a pillar in the chilly air, ghostlike beneath the overhead lights.
He broke stride when he spotted the woman lounging in the water with her eyes half-closed. There was no mistaking that auburn hair or that familiar face. Although most of Heathers shape disappeared beneath the roiling water, her breasts made an impressive appearance in a skimpy bikini bra that more than matched his fevered imaginings of the previous day.
They strained the fabric almost beyond endurance. Almost beyond his endurance, anyway.
Beneath his jacket, Frodo chose that moment to protest his confinement by squirming. The normal complement of two arms and two hands werent nearly enough to hold one puppy while maintaining a nonchalant attitude, Jason discovered.
Heathers eyes flew open. Jason? I thought you werent going to use the pool!
Im not, he said. Im just taking a walk.
Then what are you doing in here? She frowned at the way he clutched his chest. Are you all right?
Fine, he said. Im in kind of a hurry, actually.
I dont understand. What She stopped as a nose poked out of his jacket and a sharp yip disturbed the evening calm. Heathers expression warmed. What a cute puppy.
.
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Jacqueline Diamond
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: One Night Was All It Took…for Dr. Jason Carmichael to believe that Heather Rourke had given birth to his baby. After all, there were the rumors that she′d taken off from work for two months for «personal reasons,» right around the time she would have gone into labor. And then there was that adorable infant he′d seen when he′d stopped by her apartment–conveniently unannounced. But why would Heather keep him in the dark when all this once die-hard bachelor could think about was baby booties and toothless grins? He had no clear memory of the night of passion they had shared fifteen months earlier.… Was this child his or was Heather hiding a deeper secret?