Page 102 of The Doctor's Irreplaceable Love

Shelley wanted to laugh at Harper’s satisfied smile — and at the sound of Emmett muttering grumpily, “That works for me, if it will work for you?”

“Only if it works for you, Papa Bear,” Harper said sweetly.“I mean, I totally understand if you don’t want some floozy from New York City around your daughter, but it seems to me that you’re in a pinch, and I can help.So, the logical thing would be to let me.”

“I never called you any such thing,” Emmett protested.

“Don’t go getting your panties in a wad.I never said you did.I just know the general impression that people have of me around here so far — if that’s what you’re worried about.I just wanted to reassure you.”

“I’m not worried, but I ...”

“Good,” Harper cut in.“Then it’s agreed; Brooke can show me where to meet Alana, introduce us, and assure her that I’m not some unsavory character who’s about to spirit her away.And then I’ll take her home.”

Brooke met Shelley’s gaze, and it was obvious she was trying not to laugh, too.

“What about Tanya?”she asked.“Did she go home on the bus?”

“Yeah, she’ll be there already, but I’ll ask Janey to check in with her when she finishes work.They’ll figure something out for dinner.”

“Relax, Papa Bear,” said Harper.“I’ll take Alana home to Tanya, and I’ll make sure they’re fed.How about that?”

The line was silent for a long few moments before Emmett finally said, “There’s no need for you to do that.”

“I’m aware,” said Harper.“However, I’m here, I’m free, and I really don’t mind.I’m looking forward to getting to know people around this valley.Since Alana’s obviously interested in theater, it sounds like she might be my kind of person.”

She paused.“Unless you have a problem — feel free to say if you do.”

“…Listen, I have to go.If you’re sure you don’t mind — then...thanks, I guess.But wait, I don’t have your number, or—”

“Brooke can give me your number, and I’ll text you.I’ll have the girls text you as well to let you know they’re okay with the strange woman from New York, if you’d like.”

Emmett grumbled in response.

Harper’s tone gentled.“Seriously, Emmett, I’m happy to help.It doesn’t sound like you have many other options right now.I promise you I’ll take the best care of your girls.”

Something about the way she said it made a lump form in Shelley’s throat.She closed her eyes, hoping Harper wouldn’t notice how choked up she was.

Harper and her husband had lived through more than one miscarriage, and Shelley had long believed that’s what cost them their marriage.

Although Emmett couldn’t know that, he responded to the shift in Harper’s tone.

“Thank you, I’ll be forever in your debt.”

~ ~ ~

They arrived at the bakery earlier than usual because Trip’s last appointment of the day had canceled.He smiled at Shelley as he held the door open for her to go in ahead of him.

Her eyes seemed to shine as she smiled back, and it struck him just how comfortable he felt with her—how familiar being together already felt.He took her hand and forged a path through the crowded space to the counter, where Rocket greeted them with a grin.

“Afternoon, guys.What can I get you?”

After they’d given him their order, he jerked his chin toward the back of the sitting area.“Most of the gang is already up there if you want to go join them.I’ll bring your drinks over.”

“Thanks, Rocket.How are you doing?”

The big guy nodded happily.“Everything’s great in my world.How about the two of you?It’s good to see you together.”

Trip smiled as he slung his arm around Shelley’s shoulders.“It’s good to be here together.”

He loved the way she leaned into his side and nodded her agreement.