Page 78 of Doctor Second Chance

"Already taken care of," he grins. "I checked in with Cason before I came to find you. She is on board for the evening."

I squeeze his hand. "In that case, I'd love to."

Shep's smile broadens, and for a moment, the weight he's been carrying seems to lift.

Bottega Restaurant

2240 Highland Avenue S

7:26 pm

We step out of the Uber, my heart fluttering as I take in all the sparking highrises at night from this vantage point. Bottega Restaurant at 2240 Highland Avenue S. The warm glow of the restaurant's lights casts a soft halo around him, accentuating his rugged features.

Shep looks absolutely mouth-watering in his tailored dark grey pants and pressed white button-down shirt, which perfectly hugs his athletic frame. His shirt is unbuttoned at the collar, and his sleeves are rolled up, showing his forearm tattoo.

As he turns to offer his arm to walk me in, I can't help but admire how the entire outfit emphasizes his broad shoulders and narrow waist.

"Elle, you look stunning," he says, his eyes roaming appreciatively over my outfit. He leans in and kisses me. I can tell he is trying to make up to me how distant he was last night and this morning. It makes me feel guilty that he thinks he has to.

I'm wearing a sleeveless emerald green dress that falls just above my knees, paired with strappy gold heels. The dress hugs my curves in all the right places, and I feel a surge of confidence as Shep takes my hand.

As we enter the restaurant, the elegant ambiance washes over us. Soft lighting from ornate chandeliers bathes the space in a warm glow, while the exposed brick walls and dark wood accents create an intimate atmosphere.

We're led to a cozy corner table, and Shep pulls out my chair for me. As he sits across from me, I can't help but marvel at how handsome he looks. His light brown hair is slightly tousled, giving him a boyish charm that contrasts beautifully with his strong jawline and intense hazel eyes.

The candlelight flickers between us, casting dancing shadows across Shep's face. It highlights the subtle lines around his eyes—evidence of both laughter and the stress he's been under lately. Despite everything, there's a warmth in his gaze that makes my breath catch.

As we finish the last sips of our wine, I feel a playful spark ignite within me. The evening has been perfect, and I'm not quite ready for it to end.

"You know," I say, leaning in conspiratorially, "I think we should get one more drink at the bar. I’m not ready for this night to end.”

"How about we settle up here and grab a cocktail at a place within walking distance from here?" Shep suggests. "I know just the place."

“You’re just full of good ideas and surprises. Lead the way, Dr. Duncan, you’re my pied piper.” I slip my hand into his as we stand.

The night air is pleasantly cool for a late July night. Shep grabs my hand, and we stroll hand-in-hand down Highland Avenue. After a short walk, Shep guides me towards a sleek building with a discreet sign reading "The Marble Ring."

"This place is a bit of a hidden gem," Shep explains as we approach what looks like an ordinary hot dog stand. "It's a speakeasy-style bar, very posh."

We step inside the stand, and I'm about to question Shep's judgment when a hidden door swings open, revealing a glamorous, 1920s-inspired cocktail lounge. Crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow over velvet furnishings and gleaming marble surfaces.

"Wow," I breathe, taking in the opulent surroundings. "This is incredible."

We find a cozy corner booth and settle in, shoulders touching as we peruse the fresh, bespoke cocktail menu. This type of bar is my happy place.

As we settle into our plush booth, Shep orders a classic Old Fashioned, and I go for a "surprise me with something citrus and white liquor" option. When in Rome, as they say. We are in a prohibition bar, after all.

Shep takes a sip, then sets his glass down with a sigh. "Elle, I can't thank you enough for being such a rock during this crazy time. Your support means more than you know."

I reach out and squeeze his hand.

"I've been wrestling with a decision and could use your advice. It's about Opie and Ari."

"What's on your mind?" I ask gently.

Shep takes a deep breath. "I keep going back and forth about whether I should take Opie to see his mom. There's been no change since yesterday, and I'm worried time could be running out."

I listen intently as he explains his dilemma. "Part of me wants to protect his innocence, you know? I don't want his last memory of Ari to be her hooked up to machines, unresponsive. But then I worry that if I don't take him, he might resent me later for not giving him the chance to say goodbye."

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