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“Emotional rollercoaster. Got it. I’ve got this, doc. I wantthis so bad; I’ll do anything to make it work. I’ll ask her out on a date and be very patient.”

“Good idea. From what you’ve said, the physical aspect of your relationship is not the problem, but her mind and her heart need to catch up. You don’t want to jump the gun and lose her before it starts.”

“Thanks, doc. I’ll . . . settle up with Mia now.”

He rolls his eyes. “I’m glad you’re back. Let’s keep our normal session on Friday.”

And because his mood seems to have improved, I decide, rightly or wrongly, to push his buttons further. “Oh, one thing, doc. One of your patients was flirting outrageously with Mia. If I were you, I’d put a ring on her soon. Let everyone know she’s off-limits.”

He shifts in his chair, and I can practically see him trying to work out what patient it is.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Mia is a professional. She would never jeopardize her position here.”

“Whatever you say, doc. But she sure did look good today.”

I swing the door shut behind me as I see the vein pulse in his forehead one more time.

“Are you causing trouble?” Mia asks, arching her perfectly shaped eyebrow.

“Giving him a gentle nudge, that’s all.”

“Here’s your bill. I’ve added a tip for me.” She grins. “For the trouble.”

I sign the form and swipe my Amex, shoot her a wink, and head back to the office to do some hand-holding.

???

After a long day, where I have to explain myself to my employees more times than I would fucking like, I slip out of the car and head up the pathway. It’s late, and it’s too dark now, past 11 p.m. I wonder if Olivia might be in bed.

I twist the door handle, and the door swings open. She should really be locking her door. Anyone could walk in.

She gasps and is clutching her arms around her chest.

She’s been waiting for me it seems.

“Hey, Killer. I’m beat. Do you mind if I go straight to bed?” I ask, sliding my shoes off by the door.

“Listen.” I can see on her face how scared she is. “I...I don’t think it’s a good idea that you’re here. We need a clean break. Pretend this never happened, okay?”

“You’ve got a bruise.” I rub my thumb along her thigh.

“Yeah, you fucking tasered me.”

My mouth pulls before I can stop it.There’s my girl.

“I have to work again tomorrow, but we’re going out in the evening. Is seven good for you?”

“Wha—” She frowns. “No seven is notgoodfor me.”

“Okay.” I shrug. “Eight is fine.”

I head toward the basement and turn, “Goodnight, Olivia.”

Her mouth agape, her stance has changed, so she’s standing, leg cocked, fists clenched on her hips. God, she’s a sight. With all the strength I have, I descend to the basement and leave her to go to bed alone, praying that Dr. Alfie’s advice to take it slow works.

???

After hours of meetings, welcome-backs, and a birthday cake for Hannah (yeah, a fuckingbirthday cake), the team is settled. Luca and I are sitting in my office, sipping on a warm amber whiskey from Kentucky.