Page 39

Dr. Webb smiled, obviously this was not an unusual question from patients. “You can do whatever feels good. Just be prepared to stop if you experience symptoms.”

I relaxed, but Jimmy frowned, and my smile faded. Why wasn’t he smiling? Wasn’t that good news?

Jimmy cleared his throat. “Each time she’s had symptoms, they’ve been when we’re kissing. I’ve been worried about becoming more intimate. Could it trigger something worse?”

“Oh.” The doctor cleared his throat and peered at me more closely. “Is that true?”

I nodded. I half expected Dr. Webb to fist bump Jimmy for having that much effect on me with just a kiss, but he was too professional for that. His face remained impassive as he considered my words.

“In that case, you should avoid sex for now. Or any other intimate activities that elevate your heart rate,” he said. “At least if you want the medication to have a chance to work. Otherwise, I can schedule you for surgery.”

I wrinkled my nose. Dr. Webb went from hot to not. I didn’t see the harm, but I wasn’t ready for surgery. I scowled at Jimmy. He had to overshare.

Jimmy frowned back at me. “I don’t want to be the cause of you getting hurt. Talking about the kiss of death is only funny if it’s not true.”

Stupid, overprotective...husband. Sigh.

“For how long?” I asked.

“One month, then try easing into things. In the meantime, take your meds, get plenty of rest, and make healthy choices. Let’s give your medication time to work.”

I scowled again but nodded. When it was time to leave, Jimmy put his hand at the small of my back and ushered me out the door. It sent tingles radiating down my spine. Stupid tingles. For a stupid husband I couldn’t touch for one month. I sighed again. Who cared enough to want me well and really wasn’t stupid at all.

“Are you done for the day?” Jimmy asked.

I nodded. I’d rescheduled my other clients, unsure how long the appointment would take.

“Do you want to come over for dinner?”

“Yes.” I absolutely did.

He smiled. “Great, see you back at my place?”

I looked at my phone as I got in the car and instantly regretted it.

Mom: Melly, it was so nice to have a call with your husband. We’ll do it again on Sunday, yes?

I groaned. Of course. Another command performance.

Melena: Sure, Mom.

Mom: Wonderful, and we can talk more about the holidays!

Was it wrong if I bribed Jimmy’s supervisor to make sure he had to work?

I pulled open my latest message to Lisa and inserted the picture I’d Kinneared of Dr. Webb.

Melena: My cardiologist looks like he belongs on Grey’s.

Lisa: Aoooga! Thump! Thump! I think now I have a heart condition.

Melena: You also have a husband.

Lisa: So do you, chicky.

Yes, I had a husband. One I was under doctor’s orders not to let elevate my heart rate.