Dede approached the reception desk, and the woman behind it looked up with a smile. “Hey girl!”
“Hey yourself,” Dede replied.
The receptionist’s attention shifted to me.
“This is Aris,” Dede said. “The Greek fling.”
The dismissive term grated. I stepped forward before she could continue, extending my hand to the receptionist. “Aristides Christakis. Father of Dede’s children. And her future husband, yes.”
The receptionist’s eyes widened with delight. “Oh, I like him.”
“That makes one of you,” Dede muttered.
I kept my attention on the receptionist. “A pleasure to meet you, Ms...?”
“Kandi.” She was vibrating with excitement. “Dee’s best friend. We would have met at Tia’s wedding, but my daughter was about to give birth.”
“Congratulations on becoming grandmother,” I said smoothly. “I hope mother and child, they are well.”
“They’re perfect. And you…” She leaned forward conspiratorially. “You’ve got your work cut out for you with this one.”
“I am aware, yes. Fortunately, I enjoy challenge.”
Kandi laughed outright, turning to Dede, who was giving her the death stare. Before Dede could respond, a petite Asian woman in a white coat appeared in the doorway. “Deanna, perfect timing. Come on back.”
Dede gave Kandi awe will discuss this laterlook,then turned on her heel and strode toward the examination room.
I nodded to Kandi, who was still grinning, and followed.
“Future husband?” she hissed the moment the door closed behind us.
“You introduced me as a fling.” I kept my tone light. “I corrected the inaccuracy.”
“By claiming we’re getting married?”
“We are.”
“I said no.”
“You said no in Switzerland last year. This, it is new year, and different country.”
“Your audacity—”
The doctor cleared her throat. “Should I... step out for a moment?”
“No, he’s just leaving.”
“I am not leaving.”
“Aris—”
“I am staying.” I didn’t move from my position near the door. “Unless you physically remove me.”
“Don’t tempt me.”
“Dede,” I softened my tone. “Please. I want to see my children.”
“We’ll discuss this later.” She climbed onto the examination table.
