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Melanie chuckled and pressed her lips to Krista’s. “I’ve got plenty of kisses for you.”

“Oh, good,” Krista said as she exhaled. “I love your kisses so much. I love you so much,” she babbled, looking into Melanie’s eyes.

“You’ll be able to take her home in an hour or so,” Alexis said, chuckling.

“Thanks, Alexis,” Melanie said.

“Isn’t she beautiful,” Krista said, reaching up to touch Melanie’s face.

“Thank you, honey. I think you’re a little loopy.” Melanie giggled.

“You’re still beautiful. Can I have another kiss?” Krista asked. “Oh, oh, you’ve got someone to kiss, Alexis. You’ve got CeCe!” She pointed at Alexis.

Alexis couldn’t help but smile. “I get it, Krista. CeCe’s kisses are magical to me.”

Krista laughed. “I knew it! They’ve been kissing, baby,” she said, grinning at Melanie. “I’m so happy for them.”

“I am, too,” Melanie agreed.

“Krista, I think you’re in good hands. I’ll see you Saturday.” Alexis turned to Melanie. “Call me if you need anything.”

“Thank you,” Melanie said.

As Alexis left the room her phone beeped in her pocket with an incoming text.

I knew you would be a rock star today. Thanks for letting me know in your own sweet way that Krista is okay.

Alexis smiled at CeCe’s text, then replied.

Sweet? I’m not sure I’ve ever been called that. I’m a stoic surgeon. ;)

Alexis smiled as she waited for CeCe’s reply. What was it about CeCe Sloan that could make her smile with a text? Yes, she was fun, but she had a way of making Alexis lower all her various masks. She could show CeCe her playful, not-so-serious side and not worry about being judged or hurt.

Alexis looked up from her phone as she realized how CeCe made her feel. A long time ago she decided not to give anyone her heart ever again. But CeCe Sloan made her feel safe.

Her phone pinged with another text and she looked down to read CeCe’s message.

I see you, Lex.

“Hmm,” Alexis mumbled. “You do, and I let you.”

“Let what?” Melanie said, standing beside Alexis.

“Oh hey,” Alexis said, putting her phone back into her pocket. “Everything okay?”

“Yes. I was just getting Krista some ice chips.” Melanie studied Alexis. “Is everything okay with you, Alexis?”

“Uh, yeah.” Alexis smiled. “Thanks for texting CeCe. She was just letting me know you reached out.”

Melanie smiled and touched Alexis's arm. “I’m so glad I never have to date again, but there’s excitement and a little trepidation while getting to know someone new. Enjoy the adventure.”

With that, Melanie walked away, leaving Alexis to mumble,”CeCe is definitely an adventure and I can’t wait for what comes next.”

* * *

The next day Alexis was walking to her car after a difficult surgery. She was not pleased with the outcome and was worried about her patient. She got in her car and wondered if CeCe was still at the salon. One of her smiles would certainly make her feel better. If CeCe had already gone for the day or was busy, she’d go next door and buy a good bottle of wine. Or maybe she’d go to the bookstore and pick up a new book.

When Alexis walked into the salon she looked towards the back to CeCe’s station but didn’t see her there.