Page 19 of If Cain Were Able

Striding to the front door, I listen for voices, but hear none before ringing the doorbell.

Patrick opens the door, and his smile fades as panic flares in his eyes.

He stares at me for a solid twenty seconds before he’s able to find words.

“What the fuck are you doing here?” he asks, stepping out onto the front porch, closing the door behind him.

Interesting.

“I was just in the area. Thought I’d say hello,” I tell him with a cocky grin, unable to take my eyes off the way he’s regained his pre-surgery muscle mass.

“In the area? Cain, you live six states away. What could possibly have you in the area?” he demands.

I take a step forward.

He takes a step back.

“Medical conference,” I answer, advancing until he’s backed into the brick siding of his house.

“And you couldn’t be bothered to call before interrupting my life?” His tone is angry, but his eyes dip to my lips, telling me everything I need to know.

“What exactly am I interrupting?” I ask against the shell of his ear, smiling at his sharp intake of breath.

Just then, the door flies open, and Patrick’s son pokes his head out. I take a step back at the same time Patrick pushes me.

“Dad? Everything alright?” Liam asks, while sizing me up.

“Yeah, Li. I’ll be right in,” Patrick answers.

Liam doesn’t budge.

“I’ve seen you before,” he says.

I nod, deciding the truth is best in this case, and hold out my hand. Liam is a big kid, but we’re almost eye to eye.

“Dr. Rosemont. I performed your father’s heart surgery a few months ago.”

Liam’s eyes grow wide as he hesitantly takes my hand.

“Do you always travel across states to make house calls? I mean, is everything okay?”

Poor kid looks terrified.

“Everything is fine. I’m in town for a medical conference. Just wanted to check in,” I say calmly.

“Oh, well, okay, I guess,” he says, looking at his dad to confirm my story.

Patrick nods, putting his son at ease enough to invite me to stay for dinner.

“I’m sure he’s got other things he needs to do tonight, Li,” Patrick says quickly, but he’s not getting off the hook that easily.

“Actually,” I start, turning my attention fully to Liam, “I’m starving. I’d love to join you.”

“Cain,” Patrick half pleads, half commands.

Lowering my voice so only he can hear, I admit, “I didn’t get to say goodbye last time. I’d like the chance to do it tonight.”

Chapter 12