Paramedic's Fling to Forever
Author
Sue MacKay
Reads
19.5K
Chapters
11
In Sue MacKay's latest medical romance, a temporary fling becomes complicated when the doctor becomes her new colleague… IT STARTED ONE WEEK IN BRISBANE… Paramedic Leesa's instant attraction to Dr. Nick while at a party is overwhelming and irresistible! Five days of fun is just what the doctor ordered — and all they can offer emotionally. But fate has other ideas when Nick takes a permanent job where Leesa works. Suddenly, there's no avoiding each other! And resuming their fling is inevitable… Yet, having been burned by difficult marriages, will they have the courage to take a chance on forever?
PROLOGUE
‘HI. MIND IF I sit here?’
Leesa Bennett looked up at the guy standing in front of her with a beer in his hand and nodded. ‘Sure.’
She was hardly going to say no when this was a communal party, in the park next to the apartment block where she lived. Though only for one more week before she was on the road heading north, home to Cairns. Back to her family and the world she’d missed ever since coming to Brisbane with her ex. If only she had known what awaited her here, she’d never have packed one bag, let alone all her belongings, to move south.
‘Thanks.’ The newcomer’s voice was deep and husky, and a dark beard covered his lower face. A sexy combination, if ever she’d seen one.
Gasping, she swallowed a large mouthful of gin from her can and promptly coughed. Sexy? Definitely. But she didn’t usually get in a twist about a hot-looking man. Didn’t get in a twist at all these days, especially about men. One too many had made her life hell to be letting any others close.
‘Easy.’ A steady hand patted her back.
‘Thanks.’
She sat up straighter and took a smaller sip. The guy wasn’t familiar to her, but then she didn’t know everyone living in the block or attending the barbecue, which had been organised by the apartment tenants’ committee. He hadn’t been helping the other men cooking the steaks and sausages, but not all the men had. There wouldn’t have been room.
‘Did you have some food?’ she asked.
‘No.’
Not a great talker then. Suited her. She was feeling low and not in the mood for idle chatter, especially with a stranger. Even a sexy one.
There she went again. Sexy. Showed how long it was since she’d let her hair down and had some fun with a guy. Was it time to do so?
Now that she was finally leaving Brisbane it was dawning on her how she was closing a chapter of her life. A chapter that had been tough and full of hurt and that she was ready to leave behind. Still, she felt sad. The earlier dreams she’d had, of a wonderful marriage and a new life in an exciting city, had all turned into a nightmare.
She’d left her husband after accepting that he would never stop bullying her, even when she stood up to him. After being bullied at school, she knew there was only one way to go with Connor and that was to leave him. He’d get worse as time went on, not better. He’d tried to deny her a divorce, saying they had too much to lose and that he loved her to the end of the earth and back. So why demand she make the bed with hospital folds like his mother used to, and expect roast lamb for dinner every Tuesday, and make her wash the car on Saturday mornings even if she had to go to work? The list went on, but she’d put it behind her when she left him.
Only to end up working with another bully who thought he could tell all the female staff at the ambulance base what to do and when. Not the men. Oh, no, they were free to sit back and let the women clean the ambulances and restock everything. Not that any of them did, but that wasn’t the point. That prat hadn’t counted on her having already learned how to deal with someone like him. When he’d sacked her for standing up to him, she’d fought her dismissal with management and won, because they’d heard rumours about the man’s attitude. After that she went on to stick up for the others he bullied and, in the end, he was the one to leave with his tail firmly between his legs.
Despite everything that had gone down over the last two years, in some ways she was sorry to be moving away. Brisbane was a great place to live, despite the feeling something was missing for her. She did have a great job lined up with the Flying Health Care service in Cairns, and spending more time with her family was high on her priority list, especially now her mother had been diagnosed with early-stage Parkinson’s. Her grandmother’s house was waiting for her, as Gran had moved into a retirement village and didn’t want the house sold yet.
‘You live in one of the apartments?’ her companion asked.
‘I do. A one-bedroom unit. It’s great.’ She watched some of the women dancing on the lawn to the music belting out from speakers hanging from trees. ‘But I’m moving on in a few days, going back home to Cairns where my family are.’
‘I’ve just moved up here.’
‘So, you’re not on holiday then?’ She didn’t really need to know, but might as well keep the conversation ticking over and put her glum thoughts behind her.
He shook his head. ‘No, I’m spending a couple of nights with a mate while I find somewhere permanent.’ He drained his beer. ‘I’m starting a new job in a couple of weeks.’
So, he could do talking when he chose. ‘Doing what?’
‘I’m a doctor. Going to work with the emergency service.’
‘Right.’ Small world. She decided not to mention she’d finished working in the same area one day ago. Her reputation went before her and, while most people thought she was great for helping her work mates face up to that prat, there were a few who thought she was nothing more than a troublemaker. ‘Think I’ll get another drink. Can I get you something?’
He stood up. ‘I’ll come with you.’
Not the answer she’d expected. He seemed reticent about talking too much, but he had sat with her so it could be he knew no one and wanted some company. She understood that. After all that had gone down over the last two years, she was cautious about who she talked to. People always took sides even when they didn’t know the whole story.
That had been a major lesson she’d learned in all the turmoil. She used to be a slow learner, too willing to trust people even after being bullied at school. She hadn’t recognised the signs when she married Connor. But she knew better now and was not going to hand over her heart so readily ever again, if at all.
‘Grab some food while we’re at it,’ Leesa suggested.
‘No, thanks.’
‘Not into barbecues?’
Who wasn’t? They were an Ozzie tradition.
His sigh hung between them. ‘I had a big lunch.’
Okay, she’d shut up now. She might be feeling flat, but this was a party, and keeping quiet wasn’t really her thing—not for long periods anyway. Digging into her chilly bin she grabbed another gin and popped the top.
‘Who’s your friend that lives here?’ So she didn’t know when to shut up after all. No surprise there.
At least he replied with a small smile, giving her a name she didn’t recognise. ‘Logan Brand. We met in med school.’
‘I don’t know if my apartment has been rented out yet, if you’re interested. I’m on the tenth floor,’ she added.
‘I’ll think about it.’
Taking a mouthful of her drink, she watched those who were dancing on the lawn and decided to join them. ‘Into dancing by any chance?’
His eyes widened and he actually laughed. ‘Yes, I am. Let’s give it a whirl.’ Without waiting for a reply, he took her arm and led her over to where people were shaking and wiggling, laughing uproariously about who knew what.
Leesa struggled to ignore the hot sensations his hand caused on her arm. Not only did he look sexy, he had a touch that sent her off balance. Blimey. So much for a quiet night. She was about to wiggle her ass in front of this guy. Best she went and sat down again.
Except they were already in the midst of the crowd and being jostled left and right. Her new friend’s hand was now on her waist, making sure she didn’t get nudged too far away from him. Moving in time to the music, she drank in the sight before her. Her companion might be quiet, but did he have the moves or what? Those firm hips swung all over the place, keeping a perfect rhythm to the music, while his feet were light on the ground and his upper body was a sight she couldn’t ignore. She did try, but, hey, some things weren’t meant to happen.
Settle, girl. You’re leaving town in five days.
Yes, so why not have some no-strings fun with a sexy man?
Because she didn’t usually hook up for one-night stands. That was why. Would it hurt to stretch the boundaries for once? Taking in the sight before her, it was hard to come up with an answer to that. Other than, ‘Yes, go for it.’
‘Why are you smiling so much?’ he asked.
‘Because I’m happy.’ It was true. She really was. Gone was the sadness over this being the end of another phase of her life. Suddenly she felt there were opportunities out there she hadn’t considered. Like letting go of her hang up over trusting a man not to demand her utmost attention all the time. She was probably overreacting because this man was hot, but did it matter? Tomorrow was another day. Tonight was to be enjoyed now. ‘Nothing better than dancing.’
Nothing she was mentioning at any rate. He’d probably run away faster than a greyhound on the track. Even if he didn’t, the last thing she wanted was him knowing what was going on in her mind, and other parts of her body.
He took her hand and whirled them around. ‘Couldn’t agree more.’
Thankfully he’d be thinking about the dancing and would have no idea of the thoughts racing through her head. Fingers crossed.
Suddenly the music stopped mid-song. ‘That’s it, folks. It’s midnight and as you know the council forbids music to be played in their parks after that.’
Leesa blinked. ‘Where’d the time go?’ She’d have sworn they had at least another hour to go. Went to show how much fun she’d been having dancing with Dr Sexy. What was his name? Did it matter? Dr Sexy suited him better than any other name she could come up with.
‘Feel like another drink before you head upstairs?’ he asked.
‘Sounds good to me.’ She had nothing important on in the morning so it didn’t matter if she slept in.
‘I’ll get your chilly bin.’ He sauntered across the grass, looking more at ease than when he’d first sat down beside her a couple of hours back.
Had she made him feel comfortable? Or had he just got over whatever had been keeping him quiet? Whatever. She liked him. She knew nothing about him, but that didn’t matter. She was out of here on Wednesday and wouldn’t be looking back, no matter what.
‘Here you go.’ He handed over a can and sat down beside her on the park bench, a beer in hand.
‘Thanks.’ She popped the can. ‘Is your mate still here?’
‘He and his girlfriend headed away to his apartment a little while go. I’m giving them some time alone.’
‘You can come and checkout the apartment I’m in if you like.’ This late at night? Why not?
He studied her intently. ‘You sure? You don’t know me.’
‘You dance okay.’ After dancing with him she really wanted to have some more fun.
A grin appeared. ‘Then yes, I’ll take a look at your place. I like the location and I know from my mate’s apartment the place’s kept in good shape.’ So far, he was keeping to the script.
She could do that too. ‘I’ve had no complaints in the time I’ve been here.’
‘Which is how long?’ He’d got a whole lot chattier. Must’ve liked her dance moves too.
When I left Connor.
‘Over a year, give or take.’ She stood up, suddenly restless. She wasn’t into talking about her past. Plus, this man was attractive beyond reason, making it hard not to reach out and tuck herself into that amazing chest. Which would really have him thinking she was a fruit loop. Or a loose woman. Something she most definitely was not, but for some reason tonight she was ready to make the most of whatever this man had to offer. ‘Let’s go.’
‘Give me your chilly bin.’ He took it without waiting for an answer.
‘Thank you.’ Not that she’d have turned down his offer, even if the bin weighed less than a banana. It was nice being treated so well for a change. She had let her barriers down a little. Dr Sexy had been nothing but decent all evening. Throw in the growing need to have some me-time and he was getting more attractive by the minute.
In the crowded elevator Leesa found herself pressed firmly against his hard muscular body, liking every moment. His long body was a good fit. It wasn’t often she felt comfortable with her height, but for once she did. Being taller than all the other girls at school had been another reason kids teased her. Apparently, girls were supposed to be slim and medium height. It had got better out in the adult world, but the sense of being different hadn’t quite left her, especially when her ex had told her that she should be grateful he found her attractive.
As the lift became less packed at each floor Dr Sexy didn’t move away, instead he stayed right beside her with his hand touching hers without actually holding it.
‘Level ten,’ intoned the metallic speaker.
They stepped out into the corridor. Without thinking she took her companion’s hand, and didn’t let go. His warmth felt so good she didn’t care if this was a suggestive move. Which, come to think of it, it was. The realisation didn’t change a thing. She couldn’t remember ever feeling so relaxed but so fired up, her body melting on the inside for the first time in for ever. ‘This way. My apartment’s on the front of the building.’
He didn’t drop her hand until they reached her door. Delving into her pocket for the key, she shivered. What was she doing? Showing this guy the apartment, or looking for that fun she wanted? Leesa’s breathing stalled. He was watching her with the same need reflected in his deep blue eyes. Did she let him in? Or was this the opportunity to come to her senses and say goodnight?
‘I can go if you’d prefer.’
His face was open and honest. The light beard covering his chin made her palms itch. Desire spiralled throughout her. Elbowing the door open she stepped inside. ‘Come in.’
He followed her inside and closed the door quietly. Turning to face her, he said with a crooked smile that added to his sexiness, ‘We haven’t introduced ourselves. My name is Nick.’
Funny how they hadn’t got around to mentioning names before. ‘Leesa.’ A lot of thumping was going on in her chest as she fell into those eyes. Beautiful. They stirred up her desire so it was now an eddy whirling from her mouth to her toes.
The chilly bin hit the floor with a soft thump as Nick reached for her, his hands on her shoulders pulling her close to that sensational body.
Slipping her arms around his neck she pressed into him, her breasts hard against his expansive chest, making her nipples tight as she lifted her mouth to his.
His sex was hard against her lower abdomen, telling her there was no doubt why he’d come up to her apartment. He wanted a first-hand view of the bedroom.
A view she was all too happy to share. But only when she’d had her fill of his kisses. He kissed like there was no tomorrow, devouring her while at the same time tender and teasing. She held him tighter, pushed closer and kissed him in return, giving way to the need taking over, going with him all the way until finally she had to have more.
Pulling back, she grabbed his hand. ‘Come on.’ Heading to her bedroom, she rued the fact she had to wait even seconds to get down and naked, but the condoms were in her bathroom cabinet in the ensuite. ‘I need to get protection.’
‘I’ve got some,’ Nick told her.
‘Cool.’ A prepared man. She lifted her t-shirt over her head and dropped it on the floor. ‘Then there’s nothing to wait for.’
‘You are in a hurry.’
She blinked. Did she sound too eager, when she rarely did something like this? ‘Sorry.’ Hello? Sounding like the girl who tried to placate people to keep them onside.
‘Don’t be.’ Perfect answer. Nick touched her face so softly her eyes moistened. He really was special.
Better not let him get to her more than he already had. ‘I’m not usually so fast to get this close to someone,’ she whispered.
‘Relax, Leesa. I’m not either. If you want to change your mind that’s okay.’
‘Hell no.’ She was grinning like crazy. He really was awesome. She wasn’t talking any more. His lips were soft as she kissed him. But not for long. Within moments he was returning her kiss with a depth that would’ve turned her on if she wasn’t already wound up so tight—she was about to spring apart.
Somehow, they ended up naked on the bed, unable to keep their hands to themselves. Drinking in the sight of Nick’s body she spread her fingers over his chest, his hips, his thighs and onto the throbbing erection teasing her, begging her to let him in.
All the while Nick’s fingers were working magic on her heavy breasts, tormenting her with soft caresses, heating her already overheated skin, making her head spin. She wanted him. Now. But she didn’t want him to stop touching her breasts.
Then his fingers walked lightly down her body to where her pulse was throbbing so hard the whole street could probably hear. He touched, ran his finger over her sex. Almost immediately she was coming. Her whole body quivered with the explosion of desire. ‘Nick, now. Please,’ she begged.
When he slid inside, tears spilt down the sides of her face. This was awesome. More than awesome. There was no word to explain the out-of-this-world sensations filling her from scalp to toes. Wrapping her legs around him she hung on for the ride, loving when he pushed into her, holding her breath when he pulled back. Then she rocked as she shattered.
Nick stood looking down at the woman who’d shared her bed and herself with him. Leesa. A lovely name to suit a lovely lady. She was special.
Sure, it had been one of those nights where a few drinks and sensational dancing had played a part in them getting together. But there’d been something more about her that attracted him. She was nothing like his usual one-night stands. She hadn’t pushed him for any info, she’d taken what he’d said in reply to her questions and let him be. She was friendly without going over the top—until they fell into her bed and then there was no holding back.
He smiled widely. Then stopped. Unbelievable how a few hours with Leesa made him wonder if it was time to stop and question what he was doing with his life, why he was driven to keep moving on from job to job, city to city, every couple of years.
The fact his wife had waited until she’d had an abortion to tell him she’d been pregnant, and been having affairs for a while, had had him up and leaving and filing for divorce as soon as possible. But he’d always moved on from city to city, looking for something he wasn’t sure he’d find.
‘What about you, Leesa? When you love someone, is it with all you’ve got?’ he asked silently. Because she had stirred him up, made him think about the impossible, even long for the life he’d always dreamed of again. Did that mean she could be the one to turn him around and help him settle down?
Of course, he knew the answer to that. Nothing was going to change because of an exceptional one-night stand. After his grandfather died, he’d spent most of his life alone, living with people in the welfare system who hadn’t opened their hearts to him, who couldn’t love him. Nothing about tonight changed that.
And yet his heart felt lighter and brought a flare of hope for something, someone, in his future. Something that hadn’t happened since his marriage went west. The passion he’d known during the night could be a game changer if he was prepared to listen to his heart and not his head for once—as his mentor, Patrick Crombie, kept saying. The judge had saved his butt, and he’d always respect him for that, as well as the in-depth conversations they’d had over the years since.
But the night had been about Leesa. He would love more than one hot night with her. Might find more with her than only amazing sex. He shivered. What? Lower the barriers in place around his heart? Let Leesa in and risk being hurt yet again? Not likely.
But really, what was there to lose? She was heading away in a few days. They could have some fun and say goodbye at the end. Nothing unusual for him, but for once he wanted more.
Because of Leesa? Because he’d shared her bed once?
She’d been so refreshingly open, saying what she wanted without getting coy, he’d taken a second look at her. Different, for sure. But his nomadic lifestyle with few close friends hadn’t made him out and out happy. If only it was as easy as stepping forward and holding out his hand to get the life he yearned for. But protecting himself had become ingrained as he’d grown up, first losing his parents, then his grandfather. He’d loved his wife, trusted her to reciprocate his love, and got that horribly wrong.
Leesa breathed heavily and rolled over onto her other side, that silky long hair spilling over the pillow.
Yes, his heart definitely felt eager for more. This wonderful woman had had his chest squeezing with something akin to love, had him thinking he might one day change his life around and find happiness. Another shiver as emotions flooded him. He wanted that so much it frightened the pants off him, despite believing he must be unlovable if his parents, grandfather and wife had left him for one reason or another.
Whatever steps he took it wouldn’t be Leesa who followed him into whatever came next. She was heading away, while he’d just arrived in Brisbane.
Relief poured through him. He wouldn’t be tempted to make a mistake and get hurt again. Then disappointment shoved aside the relief.
He more than liked Leesa. Way more. He had to get out of here before he gave into these warm feelings of longing—the hope of dropping this inability to settle down with someone and make love and happiness happen. He really wanted it all, and suddenly, all because he’d met this wonderful woman, he could see it just might be possible. Every thought came back to Leesa.
Time to go. Not only to reflect on what had happened in the space of a few passionate hours, and make sense of these new emotions, but to try and accept he was ready to make some changes in his life.
Moving quietly so as not to disturb her, he headed for the door, then paused. In the light thrown by the full moon coming through the window he saw a notepad and pen on the kitchen bench. He couldn’t help himself. He crossed to the bench, picked up the pen and wrote.
Thank you for a wonderful night. N.
He didn’t know if he was saying goodbye or setting himself up for more enjoyment.
By six o’clock that night he had his answer. Pulling up outside the apartment block he turned off the engine and got out to stare up at level ten. Leesa had run around inside his head all damned day, even when he’d been looking at available rental properties. Laughing, dancing, kissing him, opening up to him. Smiling, sometimes not smiling, just sitting beside him as they watched others dancing.
Oh, man, how she’d got to him. So much so that he had to see her. He’d knock on her door on the pretext he wanted to look around the apartment, properly this time, as a possible option to rent. The location was ideal for his upcoming job, and his mate was on hand, but that had nothing to do with why he was heading up to her floor and not stopping at level four where he was staying with Logan.
He and Leesa hadn’t swapped phone numbers so he was taking a punt she’d be at home. If she wasn’t he’d come back later, unless he’d managed to talk himself out of it. Which he doubted was possible.
Leesa’s face split into a warm smile when she opened her door to his knock. ‘Nick. I didn’t expect to see you again.’
Ignoring the thumping under his ribs, he asked, ‘Is it okay to take a look around the apartment to see if it suits me?’
She stepped back for him to enter, her laughter tickling him on the inside. ‘Let’s be honest, you never really intended to inspect the place last night.’
He would’ve if that was all that had been on offer, but, ‘You’re right.’ So did that mean he’d get it right this time?
‘I just ordered pizza to be delivered. Want to join me? I can add to the order.’
Just like that he relaxed some more. ‘Absolutely. Seafood would be great.’
‘Take a look around while I deal with that.’ She already had her phone to her ear. ‘It won’t take you more than a minute. It’s kind of small in here.’
Except it did, because he paused in the doorway of her bedroom and stared at the bed where he’d had the time of his life with Leesa. He could picture her long, slight body pressed against his, under his, over his. Her tongue on his heated skin. Her fingers touching, rubbing, making him explode with desire.
‘Nick? There a problem?’ Leesa called from the lounge.
‘Not at all.’ Not anything he was mentioning. Stepping away, he turned and poked his head into the bathroom, where everything looked fine for his needs. At the end of the day apartments were apartments, and this one was in good condition and had everything he wanted. But there were still a couple more to look at tomorrow before he made a decision.
Or was he prevaricating? Because Leesa lived here? How that mattered didn’t make sense since she’d soon be gone. Yes, but it would be where she’d lived, where they’d made love, where hot memories could tease him.
Once again, she interrupted his errant thoughts. ‘Want a beer?’
He should leave while he still could. She was rattling his cage a bit too much. ‘Love one.’
‘What do you think?’ she asked when they were sitting on the narrow deck watching the world go by below.
That I’d like another night in your bed.
He took a swig from his bottle, swallowed hard. ‘About what?’
‘The apartment, silly. Isn’t that why you’re here?’
Is it?
‘It’s fine. I’ve seen a few today and have agreed to look at more tomorrow, but really, it’s a no-brainer. The location is ideal, my mate’s handy, and I don’t have any lawns to mow.’
Her eyes had widened. ‘When I first met you last night, you didn’t say as much in an hour.’
Yeah, well, you didn’t know me then.
Still didn’t, but he was working on it, because he couldn’t walk away. They had a few days to enjoy if she was up to it, and hopefully by then he’d have worked this need out of his system. ‘Like I said then, I didn’t want to scare you off.’
‘As if.’ Her grin was wicked and winding him up fast.
‘How long before those pizzas arrive?’ Because eating was suddenly the last thing he wanted to do.
Her grin just got more wicked. ‘Patience, man.’
‘Are we on the same page?’ He had to know or he’d blow a gasket.
‘You mean, do I want to share my salami pizza?’ Damn, her eyes were the sexiest he’d ever encountered.
‘You got it in one.’ The sound of a bell ringing cut through the air. ‘Thank goodness,’ he muttered. ‘Unless you’ve invited the neighbours in.’
‘No, just my mates from work,’ she grinned. ‘Relax, Nick. I’ll go deal to with the delivery and then we can get down and sexy.’
He watched her walk inside, that sassy bottom making him hard just thinking about touching her. Twenty-four hours ago, he hadn’t even met Leesa and now—now he wanted to fall into bed with her again and make love like there was no tomorrow. He wanted to leave his mark on her so she’d never forget him. He wanted to make more memories to hold close after she left town.
And yet he knew the old fear of being let down was lurking behind all the happy thoughts. There would be nothing to gain if he didn’t take some chances, but that was a huge ask. Could he do it? Could he leave the past behind and get on with the future?
‘I’d say by the look that just crossed your face we’d better eat first.’ Leesa looked disappointed as she stood in front of him holding two pizzas.
On his feet in an instant, Nick took the boxes from her and placed them on the table. Then he leaned in and kissed her, lightly at first, then deeper and deeper until his head spun and Leesa was gripping him tight. He raised his head. ‘Which do you want?’
She took his hand and raced to her bedroom. ‘I’ve spent half the day thinking about this while not really expecting to see you again. I’m not going to waste any more time thinking.’ She spun around in front of him, tearing her t-shirt over her head, exposing her lace-clad breasts.
He should’ve come up hours ago, to hell with looking at apartments. The best one in town was right here. ‘Thinking’s highly overrated,’ he groaned before his mouth found her nipple and she bucked against him.
Wednesday morning and Leesa was up at five thirty to see Nick out the door for the last time. She had a few last things to pack before the removal company arrived to box up the furniture and transfer it all to her gran’s house in Cairns, and then she’d hit the road before the heat became unbearable. ‘Thanks for some amazing nights,’ she said before giving him one last kiss. A not-so-passionate kiss, since she was leaving town this morning and their fling was over.
They’d shared four incredible nights with little sleep and a lot of mind-blowing sex. How was she going to move on from that? ‘Apart from the four days driving that lay ahead,’ she laughed to herself. There’d be plenty of time driving to consider her options about the future.
‘Back at you,’ Nick said as he returned her kiss. Stepping back, his arms dropped to his side. ‘Thanks for everything, Leesa.’
‘All the best with your new job.’ She was filling in the air between them, wanting him to leave before she grabbed him tight and changed her mind about heading north. At the same time glad she could take in more of that honed body and beautiful face to brood over later.
‘Drive safely,’ he returned.
‘Sure.’
‘Good.’
Um... ‘Bye, then.’
Nick spun away, took two steps, called over his shoulder, ‘Bye, Leesa.’ This time he kept walking all the way along the corridor to the lift.
Before he reached it, she was inside the apartment, closing the door and scrubbing her face with her fingers. The nights with Nick had opened her heart to really getting on with finding the life she wanted, once she got home to where her family and friends were. The new life might one day include a man she’d give her heart to and who’d love her to bits in return. Plus, children to love as well. A complete family. Yep, couldn’t ask for more than that. If she was ready to try again.
At six thirty she slid into her car, buckled up and then flicked some music on—loud. Pulling out of the underground garage she glanced up at the apartment building one last time. ‘See you, Nick. You’re an amazing lover. I’ve had the most wonderful time with you.’ Funny thing was they’d not talked about themselves at all. As though they both wanted to have fun without getting deep. Maybe that had been a mistake. And maybe it hadn’t.
Indicating left, she turned onto the street and began the long haul home. All the way Nick stayed with her, reminding her there were decent men out there and that she only had to step up and be herself and she’d find one of them.
Sure you haven’t already?
Unfortunately, the music couldn’t get any louder to block out that annoying voice.