Page 71 of Doctor Second Chance

"Oh, that's tough," I say, pretending to think hard. "I loved the touch tanks where we got to feel the starfish and sea urchins. But I think my absolute favorite was watching you get so excited about all the different fish!"

Opie beams at me, and I feel a warmth spread through my chest. We've only known each other for a short time, but I already adore this little boy.

"You sure know a lot about fish," Shep says, bumping my shoulder playfully. "I think you might have taught the guides a thing or two."

I laugh, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks. "Well, it is kind of my job."

"When I grow up, I want to study fish like Elle!" Opie declares, ice cream forgotten for a moment.

Shep raises an eyebrow at me, a smile playing on his lips. "Oh yeah? I thought you wanted to be a doctor like your old man."

Opie considers this for a moment, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Can I be both?"

We all burst out laughing, and I reach over to ruffle Opie's hair. "You can be anything you want to be, kiddo."

Today has been perfect—full of laughter, learning, and genuine connection. Watching Shep and Opie together, seeing how easily I fit into their dynamic, it all feels so right. For the first time in a long while, I allow myself to imagine a future where days like this are the norm.

Monday, July 22

6:09 am

I'm roused from a deep sleep by the gentle press of Shep's lips against mine. My eyes flutter open to see him already dressed in his scrubs, his hair slightly damp from a shower.

"Morning, beautiful," he murmurs. "I've got an early surgery. Didn't want to leave without saying goodbye."

I smile sleepily, reaching up to touch his face. "What time is it?"

"Just after six," he says. "You don't have therapy until ten, right? Go back to sleep if you want. Cason's already here and will get Opie up and fed. Help yourself to anything you need."

I nod, still groggy. "Thanks. I might doze a bit more."

“Your car keys are hanging just inside the pantry. I hope we can catch up while you're at the hospital later," Shep says, brushing a strand of hair from my face. "I'll text you when I can."

He leans down and presses a soft kiss on my forehead. "See you later," he whispers before standing up.

I watch as he walks to the bedroom door, admiring how his scrubs hug his broad shoulders. Even in work clothes, he looks devastatingly handsome. My heart flutters a bit as I think about how lucky I am to be here, in his bed, in his life.

As the door clicks shut behind him, I roll over, hugging his pillow close. It smells like him —a mix of soap and something uniquely Shep. I close my eyes, a contented smile on my face, ready to drift back into pleasant dreams for a little while longer.

The Red Cat Coffee House

2901 2nd Ave S

8:52 am

The quaint brick building with its red awning and large windows is bustling with morning patrons. I spot Izzy waving at me from a table near the front, her blonde hair catching the sunlight streaming in.

As I step inside, the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee envelops me. The interior is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls adorned with local artwork. Wooden tables and mismatched chairs give the place a cozy, lived-in feel. Behind the counter, baristas bustle about, creating intricate latte art and pulling perfect espresso shots.

"Elle!" Izzy exclaims as I approach. She stands to give me a quick hug before we settle into our seats.

"This place is adorable," I say, taking in the eclectic decor. Vintage coffee grinders and antique signs line shelves above the coffee bar, adding to the cafe's charm.

A friendly barista approaches our table. "What can I get for you ladies?"

Izzy orders her usual vanilla latte while I opt for a straight-up skinny cappuccino. As we wait for our steaming cup of amazingness, I take inventory of the diverse crowd around us. Students with laptops, business people in suits, and artsy types with sketchbooks all mingle in this cozy space.

When our coffees arrive, the foam on mine is artfully shaped into a delicate leaf. The first sip is heavenly—rich and smooth with just the right amount of bitterness.

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