First-Time Valentine. Mary J. Forbes

are one predictable patient, Mr. Sumner.”

      He hissed. “Doc, Doc. How’m I to rescue my self-esteem after that comment?”

      “I’m sure your self-esteem will hold out. I’ll get Lindsey to change these ice packs in thirty minutes and then redress your leg.”

      From a narrow cupboard in the corner of the room, she retrieved a fresh, plump pillow.

      “Meanwhile, I’ll send up some soup so you’ll have something in your stomach for the night. Lift up on your elbows.” When he did, she removed the old pillow and tucked in the laundered one. “Better?” she asked when he’d resettled.

      Something grazed his expression—like a butterfly’s fleeting touch to a flower—and it curled around her heart the way the pillow she held wrapped his body’s warmth around her hands. “I’ll see you in the morning, J.D.”

      “Ella.” Her name was soft on his chapped lips. “Thank you.”

      She touched the big hand resting on his chest. “You’re welcome.” Before she could draw away he gripped her fingers. “Can I see you?”

      She pretended to misunderstand. “I need to finish my rounds.”

      “I meant after. Once I’ve left the hospital.”

      Carefully, she withdrew her hand from his clasp. “I seldom go to New York.”

      “I’ll be staying in Walnut River for a couple weeks.” “Oh? So you do have family here?” Would he admit it now?

      “Trying to get me offtrack, Doc? I’m asking if you’ll have dinner with me once I’m discharged.”

      “Not offtrack. We just want to ensure—”

      “Will you?” he asked, his throat so raspy she handed him the water bottle again.

      “Let me think about it.”

      “Better than no, I suppose.” He took a sip of liquid, eyed her. “I’ll call you tonight.” He flashed a smile. “You’re in the phone book. I checked.”

      She shook her head. “I wonder how many other female nurses and doctors you’ve wooed.” For NHC.

      He didn’t blink. “Not a one.”

      She huffed a laugh. “And I’ll bet not for lack of trying.”

      “Don’t have to try, Doc.”

      “Ah. Women drop like flies at your feet, then?”

      A wicked grin. “Something like that.”

      “Good to know. Well, then.” She lifted her chin. “Don’t let me get in their way.”

      His laughter followed her out the door.