Page 108 of Risky Move

Her mother didn’t respond for a long moment. Cassie heard her sigh and braced herself for the lecture that would begin.

“Cassie, I can tell that this is still fresh and you’re heartbroken. But, like Caryn told you, it was an accident. I had trouble keeping up withyou.I can’t imagine trying to entertain two toddlers…Should you have trusted your friend? Maybe not, but you just ran to the bathroom and grabbed a new shirt. See how fast toddlers can travel? Have you forgiven yourself?”

She thought about the question. Forgive herself? “I never even thought about that, Mom.”

“It sounds like just about everyone has accepted it was an accident. Perhaps preventable, but still an accident. You saved the child’s life. That’s the important takeaway—not wallowing in guilt. Forgive yourself and move on with your life.”

“Thanks, Mom. I need to think things through with that mindset.” Cassie moved to a chaise and sipped some water.

“Please do that, Cassandra. I think you also had some good news to share?”

Cassie surprised herself by laughing quietly. “It’s good news for me. I’ve been spending time with Andrew’s brother. You’ll like him…He’s perfect—at least I think so.”

“Is he taking classes at the university as well?”

So far, so good.“No, Tom’s a physician—a neurologist. We have so much in common and started going out after American Thanksgiving…Tom’s…”

“Cassie,” Amanda interrupted. “A neurologist? What could you possibly have in common with someone who’s settled in a career? How old is he?”

Cassie hedged. “He’s not much older than me. He took extra classes year-round.”

Her mother didn’t speak for a moment, and Cassie bit her lip nervously.

“Well, you’ll do what you want, but please don’t start planning your wedding. He sounds like a brilliant young man. He may lose interest once you’re enrolled in school full-time. Keep that in mind.” Her mother paused. “Guard your heart—I don’t want you disappointed when he meets someone who’s more of a peer. Have you considered the dangers of getting involved with your employer’s brother? Do they approve?”

“There’s nothing to approve. I’m an adult, and so is he. Caryn said she’s happy we got together. I really think you’ll like Tom.”

“If that time comes, I’ll look forward to meeting your young neurologist.”

Cassie set her phone aside and leaned back against the chaise, emotionally exhausted. She glanced at her watch.We had a forty-five-minute phone call. And mostly positive—much better than expected. She didn’t call me a failure or immature for allowing Daniel to fall into the pool. She comforted me and didn’t ask me to return home. And she took the news about Tom reasonably well. Not too critical. She didn’t go into her usual tirade about men. Just the comments about the age difference and warning about things not working out… Maybe I’m due for some good luck?

* * *

When he returned to the suite, Tom found Cassie on the balcony, her hair loose and blowing in the wind as she stood near the edge gazing at the sea. The cut-off denim shorts and hot pink bikini top allowed him to appreciate her golden-tanned skin. His mind flashed through the many activities they could enjoy without leaving the suite.

Tom walked up behind her and closed his arms around her. “The Gulf’s siren,” he teased as he kissed her neck. “How many boats have you shipwrecked today?”

“Lost count,” Cassie replied as she leaned back against him. “Missed you.”

“Any news from Tampa?”

“Besides Lauren and Dave’s house turning into a three-ring circus? Lauren says she’s having a blast—absolutely loves his parents and siblings.”

“I’m sure they love Lauren, too,” Tom said.

“Have you heard anything from the Virgin Islands?” Cassie ventured, entwining her fingers with his.

“Not much…which means Caryn and Andrew don’t want to return to reality. Especially not with the team heading to the Northeast in two weeks.”

“And do you have to work straight through to make up for the shifts you traded?” Cassie turned to face him.

“I spread it out. I need my time with this beautiful girl who sometimes paints rainbows in her hair.” He lifted her chin and sealed his words with a kiss. “What’s on your bucket list for today?”

“You decide. We only have a couple days left.” Cassie roped her arms around his neck. “Whatever you wish, doctor.”

“Picked up a brochure for a dolphin and manatee boat tour. Do you get seasick?”

“No idea—but that sounds wonderful! Do we need to make reservations?” Tom saw the sparkle in her hazel eyes. “Can I swim with the dolphins?”

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