“Even so, there are certainly standards of society that we, you, me, everyone must comply with, particularly if you’re seeking to fulfill a place in the public eye. Doctors are supposed to be pillars of their communities and something like this would tarnish a reputation, more so for you because you are a woman.”
She nodded, grateful that he had refused her based on realities and not superfluous things, such as her looks.
“I understand,” she said, just as an idea struck her. Well, not so much suddenly as what she had planned to do if he had said no. “If you are not willing to participate, I will not force you.”
A huff of laughter escaped him.
“Believe me, Grace, you would not have to force me. But for the reasons stated, as well as our working relationship, I cannot agree to it.”
“Absolutely,” she said as he began to turn. “I suppose I’ll have to resort to my secondary choice.”
James stared at her, then blinked.
“Secondary choice?”
“Yes. I suppose Mr. Milton will do, although I doubt I will have the same results. Still, it is something that needs investigating and I intend to do just that.”
James’s body froze in its spot and the air between them turned curious.
“Excuse me?”
His tone was suddenly different and by the jump in her pulse, Grace felt very much like she was suddenly in a locked room with an animal. Not something voracious, like a tiger or a bear, butsomething more cunning. Still, the expression on his face gave her pause.
“Are you feeling all right?” she asked.
“Mr. Milton?” James repeated, his voice rough, before clearing his throat. He gazed at her, though really it might be more of a glare. “What does Mr. Milton have to do with this?”
Grace’s brow lifted.
“Well, like I said, I’ve been curious about this lacking part of myself for some time and I intend to learn about it one way or the other. I had hoped that you would be willing, considering how very alike we are in regards to our methods of learning, and as I believe we would be able to stay fairly level-headed. But, as you have decided not to participate, I will have to look elsewhere.”
His dark brows drew together as he faced her once more and Grace was surprised to see such a quick change in his mood.
“So, Mr. Milton is to replace me?”
She tilted her head.
“How could Mr. Milton replace you if you were not in the experiment to begin with? I shall start with Mr. Milton, detail my findings, and try my best to learn what exactly is wrong with me.”
“There’s nothing the matter with you,” he said hotly. “And you cannot simply replace me with the likes of Mr. Milton.”
“Well, I refuse to abandon my research. And Mr. Milton is a fine candidate. He’s just about your height, has all his teeth, which I will vainly admit I am partial to, and seems a smart man with an independent view on life.”
“Teeth? That’s one of your requirements?”
Sensing the sarcasm in his tone, Grace squared her shoulders.
“I’m afraid this is a topic I shan’t discuss anymore with you. It is a private matter now and I would rather not hear you disparage it.”
He stepped toward her.
“I cannot condone this, Grace. It’s beyond foolish. It’s dangerous. Your very reputation will be at stake.”
Grace opened her mouth to argue, but shut it when she realized he was right. She lifted her chin.
“Possibly. But I am determined to sort out this part of me.”
“And you’re certain Mr. Milton will remain silent? That he will not blackmail you? Or threaten to expose you?”
