Page 80

“Ready for today?” she asked.

“Ready for this to be done,” I replied. “Last night, I automatically reached for a book then remembered I didn’t have to study anymore!”

All the girls laughed with me.

“I do have to do a bit when we get home before I take the test.” I needed another certificate since I was going to work in a different province. But compared to what I had been through, it was going to be a breeze.

Sue scoffed. “Light reading, considering what you usually have to do.”

Jill pouted. “I can’t believe you’re leaving us—that you don’t want to stay here.”

I winked at her. “You didn’t either, until you met Dr. Sorenson.”

She blushed a little, then tossed her hair. “Girl, can you blame me?”

I grinned. He was a recent hire at the hospital we’d both finished our training at. Eric Sorenson was tall, blond, and muscular. A favorite with all the nurses, but he only had eyes for Jill. And she was head over heels for him.

“No,” I admitted. “He’s hot.”

“Especially when he talks with that accent,” Jodie inserted. “Never mind when he mutters in his own language.” She fanned herself. “Hot isn’t enough. Incendiary, maybe.”

Jill laughed. “Mine, ladies. All mine.”

I hip checked her. “Lucky bitch.”

The doorbell sounded, and she went to answer it as I poured a cup of coffee. She returned, carrying a lovely flower arrangement. “Wow,” I mouthed. “Like I said, lucky bitch.”

She shook her head. “They’re not for me. They’re for you.”

“Oh.” I shook my head, looking at Sue. “Flowers weren’t needed. You being here is all I wanted.”

Sue lifted her hands. “Not me.”

I approached the table, suddenly nervous. Filled with dread and anticipation. Beautiful Stargazer lilies took center stage. Small white roses, tiny wax flowers, and lovely greenery filled the tall vase. The arrangement was stunning. And could only be sent by one person.

My hand shook as I plucked the card from the center and opened the small envelope.

Congratulations on today.

I knew you would rock it.

My advice – enjoy.

I wish you nothing but the best.

Dr. VanRyan (Matthew)

I blinked at the sudden tears. Touched one of the velvety petals. He hadn’t forgotten. I didn’t know where he was, but he remembered.

I met Sue’s eyes and nodded. She smiled in agreement. “One of the good guys,” she murmured.

He was that—and more.

And I missed him so much, I ached from it.

The next two weeks were busy—but in a different way. After graduation day, I spent some time with the girls, then I packed and went home. Back to my little apartment over the bakery, the scent of sugar and spice in the air rather than the hint of smog that followed you around Toronto. It was sad to say goodbye to my roommates, but I knew I had met a few lifelong friends. Jill and Jodie, especially. I hadn’t brought much back with me—even less than I’d taken when I went the other way. Sue had kept the apartment for me, hoping I would be back. Thrilled when I told her I had made up my mind to come home.

I sat down, looking around. The place was the same, but different. It always felt small and cozy. After the past year, it felt spacious and roomy. I carried my case into the bedroom. Sue had made up the bed, fresh and inviting. The queen mattress was going to feel huge compared to the little twin I’d slept on.