Page 96 of Flirting with 40

I did exactly what Prisha warned me not to do. I let the ease of Slade and how he treats me mess with my head.

Sure, the sex is fantastic, but there can be sex without long-term emotions.

And I let those grow when I knew I shouldn’t have.

I made the mistake of thinking this is more.

Deep breath, Blakely.

He’s a rebound.

Don’t ruin the last night together.

You forgot that’s what this was.

Tuck your thoughts away.

It’s what you needed so you took it.

Enjoy the time.

He’s just a rebound.

“Tell me, when you’re reinstated at work—”

“When?”

“Yes, when. Just like when I get the promotion. What’s next for you?” I ask. “Will it be hard to step back into your rounds at the hospital after being gone for so long?”

“It shouldn’t be too hard. I’m sure my inbox will be loaded with cases the minute I’m allowed to return.” He knocks his knee against mine. “What about you? Do you think your bear sacrifice will pay off with Heather?”

“I’m not too sure.” I shrug. “But I know I’m leaving here in a much better place with her than I was when we arrived. Not only do the rest of my colleagues see me in a different light but also, I confronted Heather. I attempted to clear the air with her, and I tried to be the bigger person. If she can’t accept that olive branch, then at least I know I tried and have a leg to stand on with the board.”

“I’m so damn proud of you, Blakely.”

Those seven simple words have emotions clogging my throat. So much so that I close my eyes to try to let it abate while I memorize everything about the moment. His warmth beside me, the way he makes me feel, the sound of the water lapping against the dock, the scent of his cologne, the complete and utter adoration I have for him, all cement themselves into my mind’s eye.

“You’re quiet,” he says, pulling me back to the present.

“I’m just enjoying this.” I rest my head against him.

“Did you just say you’re enjoying this? Outdoors. Nature. Not hanging out on a broken porch swing?”

“Yes. I do believe I am enjoying this.”

He pulls me in tight against him and gives me a bear hug before pressing a kiss to the top of my head. “Look at all this personal growth. Who knew?” His chuckle rumbles through his chest and into me.

“Hey, Slade?”

“Hmm?”

I tilt my head back to look at the moon, let everything I’ve learned about myself on this trip run through my mind, open my mouth, and let out the best attempt I can at a howl.

It’s lame and cheesy and ends in me laughing and burying my face in my hands, but at least I tried.

“That’s my girl!” Slade says as he joins in with a howl of his own before laying me back on the dock and kissing me.

Then undressing me.