Page 28 of Flirting with 40

“It has to be hard being in the ER and never knowing how things end up,” she murmurs as her fingers continue to click over keys.

“That’s for sure.”

“You docs down there are a special kind of breed. Not everyone can handle what you guys see.”

“It takes some getting used to, that’s for sure.”

“It’s definitely refreshing to know you care about your patients enough to follow up on them.”

C’mon, Chatty Cathy. Just give me the update.

“Oh, here she is. Let’s see how you’re doing, Miss Ivy,” she murmurs to herself as she reads the computer. “I’m not seeing any change on her status in her chart. Looks to be the same.”

“Okay.” Shit. “Thanks.”

“And your name again?”

I end the call without answering, fisting the cell in my hand and bringing it up to my forehead while I will Ivy to get better.

That damn little girl stole my heart.

CHAPTER NINE

Blakely

“So, let’s talk about the state of your coochie?”

I level a glare at Kelsie, who is sitting perfectly content on my chaise lounge while I move around the family room, fluffing any and every pillow I find.

“I’d prefer if we didn’t.” I laugh.

“This is more than important. Did you shave it? Trim it? Or are you just full, screw-all-men beast mode down there?” she asks.

“Why do you care?”

“Because in fewer than twenty-four hours, you’re leaving on a five-day retreat with your fake boyfriend. The state of your bikini line tells me all I need to know about what you expect to get out of this trip.”

I stop mid-fluff and stare at her. “No. I haven’t shaved it.”

“Jungle bush.” She lifts her eyebrows. “That’ll definitely make a statement.”

I laugh. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means I’m disappointed in you because you don’t plan on getting any action.”

“I’ve known the guy a few days. What am I supposed to do? Jump into bed with him and have wild, crazy sex?”

“Yes.” She nods definitely. “That’s exactly what you’re supposed to do.”

“I don’t do one-night stands, Kels. That isn’t me.”

“Good thing the retreat is longer than one night.” She waggles her eyebrows. “Because five-night stands are way better. You can have first-time sex. You can have skinny-dipping sex. Rebound sex. Picnic-table sex. Just think of all the fun you’ll be having.”

“Will you listen to yourself?”

“I am, and I’m getting all hot and bothered thinking about it.”

“You have something seriously wrong with you,” I say but laugh. “There will be none of that. We’ll be at a campground for god’s sake. Think a big communal room with bunk beds, footy pajamas, and no privacy. Besides—”