Page 48 of Risky Move

Cassie heard Caryn’s sigh. “So, not much help with Jenna and Danny?”

“Not yet. Amelie’s watched but hasn’t interacted with them. That’s okay. Danny and Jenna have a new trick—they take off in opposite directions. I swear they pre-plan it!”

“I wouldn’t doubt that. Sometimes, I think they already have that twin communication thing going.”

“I can ask Amelie if she and Cam had their own secret language.”

“With those two, nothing would surprise me.”

* * *

After she and Caryn put the tired and cranky duo in their cribs for a nap, Caryn handed Cassie the baby monitor. “I’ve got another conference call. But with any luck, they’ll sleep a couple hours. Why don’t you relax by the pool, too? Help yourselves to whatever you’d like for lunch—or order out. My treat.” Caryn pointed to the credit card on the counter.

Cassie asked Amelie if she would like a sandwich or salad. “Caryn’s chicken salad is super delicious. Everyone wants her recipe.”

“Sure, that sounds good, Cassie. It’s just perfect out here. Could you grab a Coke or water for me?” Amelie flipped on her stomach and closed her eyes. “So relaxing.”

Cassie didn’t comment as she walked back to the house.Wow, she and Cam must have grown up with cooks and maids. No offer to help. Sure, she’s a guest, but she could at least volunteer.Sighing, she quickly put together a platter of sandwiches, fruit, and fresh brownies. She gathered utensils, paper plates, napkins, and a selection of cold drinks and took them to the deck, setting up the table at the end of the pool. Amelie didn’t move while she brought out the food and drinks, so Cassie allowed the tray to drop a few inches to make a sound.The monitor!Cassie returned inside to grab the monitor, smiling when she heard the babies softly snoring as they slept.

She called Amelie when she reached the table. “Lunch is served.”

Her guest looked over her shoulder. “Be there in a few. Don’t wait for me.”

Cassie rolled her eyes.Don’t worry about that.She smiled in surprise when the door opened, and Tom stepped into the lanai. “Lunch break?” she greeted. “Perfect timing.” She waved her hand toward the table. “Hungry?”

“Always…is that chicken salad?” His brown eyes met hers speculatively.

“Caryn’s specialty. Plus, brownies.”

“It will be worth doubling my laps today.” Tom’s smile caused Cassie’s heart to beat faster.Hope he can’t hear it.Tom nodded at Amelie in the corner at the end of the pool. “Is she not joining us?”

“She said not to wait, she’d be over in a few.”

“In that case…” Tom pulled back a chair for Cassie, then sat beside her. “Wasn’t expecting this when I walked in.”

“Tom, you know I’d make lunch for you anytime…so long as you handle breakfast and an occasional dinner.”

Tom recounted a humorous story concerning an intern that set off Cassie’s giggles. “How did you keep a straight face, doctor?”

“Sometimes, it’s difficult. I had to take a break—though, I remember being in the same situation when I was an intern.” He looked up to see Amelie standing behind Cassie. “Ready to join us?”

“You bet. I didn’t think you’d start without me, Cassie.”

Tom watched as Cassie bit her lip and forced a smile. “I’m sorry, Amie. I misunderstood. Please, join us. Caryn’s chicken salad is famous.”

“Oh, this really looks good.” Amelie placed a sandwich on her plate and opened a bottle of water. She turned her attention to Tom. “Day off?”

“Worked last night. Full moon, which meant a crazy night in the ER.”

“That’s not an urban myth?” Cassie asked. “Do weird things really happen when there’s a full moon?” Her hazel eyes reflected mischief. Tom responded with a wink.

Amelie laughed. “No vampires—or is that the wolfman?”

“Not that I’ve seen, but you can google and read many supposedly true full-moon ER stories.” Tom sipped his water as he watched her reaction. Amelie pouted just a bit.

“So, no fun stories from your experience, doctor?” She cocked her head with a teasing smile.

“Nah, most of the patients I see have some kind of head injury. What’s on your agendas today?”

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