Page 15 of My Heart's Doctor

“They’re right when they say you’re an angel. I’ve never seen anyone so loving and kind with children. We were lucky to meet you because this little one needs someone like you by her side.”

“Alba, when I put Aurora to bed, I’d like to talk to you about something,” I said, because I wanted to make it clear that I couldn’t continue seeing Aurora without her father’s consent.

“I’d like that too, doctor.”

“And call me Devon.”

“I’m an employee of this house and you’re a guest. If you don’t mind, I’d prefer to keep addressing you as I have been.”

“If it makes you feel more comfortable, I don’t have a problem with it; but remember that you’re Cavaller’s employee, not mine; and, on the other hand, I’m not his guest. Let’s agree that he might not be very happy about my presence in his house.”

“Don’t say that, doctor.”

“Alba, I exchanged a few words with him at the clinic, and I assure you he wasn’t very happy that I had examined his daughter. He emphasized repeatedly that Aurora’s doctor was Miranda Nur.”

At that moment, I leaned down to place Aurora in bed, covered her with the blanket, and gave her a kiss on the forehead. As soon as we left the bedroom, Alba took me by the arm and said:

“I know it’s presumptuous of me to tell you this, but you’re such a good person that I want to be honest,” she sighed and continued, “Mr. Cavaller is very strict about everything related to his daughter, and Dr. Nur has been treating her since she was a baby, which is why he hasn’t changed pediatricians.”

“You don’t need to explain anything to me, I understand.”

“Yes, I need to explain because it doesn’t feel right to invite you to the house to visit Aurora and witness the affection you have for each other, while Mr. Cavaller continues choosing another doctor for her check-ups.”

“I assure you I can understand it and I don’t question the father’s decisions. He doesn’t know me, and Dr. Nur is an excellent professional. Besides, don’t worry because my relationship with Aurora and with you is independent of her father.”

“It makes me feel better knowing it doesn’t bother you.”

“I assure you it doesn’t bother me at all.”

“What did you want to ask me?” she mentioned.

“Oh, that,” I said, remembering I also wanted to tell her something. “It has to do with Aurora’s dad, Mr. Cavaller. I don’t know if he agrees with me having a relationship with Aurora. I came today because you told me he wasn’t here, but I don’t know if I can continue visiting. I care deeply for Aurora and you, but perhaps it would be better if I didn’t come back to this house.”

Alba looked at me, but her face didn’t reveal anything.

“I’m going to be honest with you, doctor,” she finally said.

“Please do,” I asked, encouraging her to speak freely.

“Mr. Cavaller is a good man and father, but he has a complicated character, I suppose because he hasn’t had an easy life. I imagine that the other day at the clinic he didn’t treat you very well, but I assure you it was because he was nervous and worried about his daughter.”

“You don’t have to defend him, Alba; I’ve already formed an impression of his character.”

Alba sighed and took my hands.

“You are also a good woman, and I wouldn’t want you to stop visiting Aurora. She needs someone like you by her side. Even Mr. Xavier noticed the love Aurora feels for you. I’ll do everything possible so you can continue seeing each other, plus I have Mr. Cavaller’s consent for you to visit each other.”

“Let’s do this: if Aurora asks for me again, you call me and we’ll see where we can meet, always with her father’s consent, of course. If Aurora doesn’t ask for me, perhaps it’s better if we avoid these meetings. Either way, I want to make it clear that I’m at your service for whatever you need.”

“Thank you, doctor, likewise.”

“Well, I should get going because it’s very late. Thank you so much for the invitation, I had a lovely afternoon.”

“I’m the one who should be grateful,” she said, and we headed toward the living room.

“You’re leaving already?” asked Xavier when he saw me pick up my purse.

“Yes, it’s late.”