Page 36 of Doctor Neighbor

As Carly turns to carry out the orders, I take a deep breath, trying to shake off the nagging worry. Something isn't right with Mr. Harrison, and I'm determined to find out what it is.

As I turn to head back to the OR, my phone buzzes in my pocket.

I pull it out, my mind still swirling with concerns about Mr. Harrison, when I see Cole's name on the screen. A smile tugs at my lips despite the stress of the morning.

Thank you for passing along Aric's name. We've already spoken, and I feel like a thousand-ton weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I can’t think of how to repay you, but I would like to try tonight if you're free.

My heart skips a beat. Last night with Cole was... incredible. Unexpected but welcome. And now she wants to see me again tonight?

My cock twitches at the thought. I am not sure what exactly is going on between us, but I know it contradicts what we both agreed to. But I'm not one to try to interrupt the natural progression of things, especially when she has a rocking body and crystal blue eyes that melt my soul.

I lean against the wall, torn between excitement and the weight of my responsibilities. Mr. Harrison's condition weighs heavily on my mind, but the thought of seeing Cole again sends a thrill through me.

I'm supposed to meet up with Hunter to play pickleball and then go out for a beer. I have to rethink that one. Cole is much better looking than Hunter.

I’m so glad Aric could help. No need to repay me, but I'd love to see you tonight if possible. I have an obligation directly after work, but I shouldn't be out too late. I'll text when I'm heading home to see if you're up for company.

As I hit send, I can't help but smile. The memory of Cole's warmth beside me this morning, the softness of her skin under my fingertips... it's a welcome distraction from the stress of the day.

I pocket my phone and head towards the OR, my mind already shifting back to medical mode. I've got an appendix to remove.

6:14 pm

I wipe the sweat from my brow, my heart pounding as I face off against Shep across the pickleball court. The late afternoon sun beats down on us, but the energy crackling between us is electric.

"Ready to get your ass handed to you, Hankel?" Shep taunts, bouncing on his toes.

I grin, spinning my paddle. "In your dreams, Duncan."

Shep serves, the plastic ball whizzing over the net. I'm there in a flash, returning with a sharp volley. We trade rapid-fire shots, the hollow pop of the ball echoing through the air.

I dash to the left, stretching to reach a tricky shot. My muscles burn, but adrenaline courses through me. I manage to lob it back, catching Shep off-guard.

"Nice one!" he grudgingly admits, scrambling to return.

We're evenly matched, and neither of us gives an inch. The score ticks up: 3-3, 5-5, 7-7. Our competitive streaks are on full display, and each point is hard-won.

I see an opening and go for a powerful smash. Shep dives, his paddle scraping the ground as he barely returns it. I'm caught flat-footed, and he scores.

"Ha! Too slow, old man!" Shep crows.

Determined, I serve aggressively. We volley furiously, neither willing to concede. I fake left, then drop the ball just over the net. Shep lunges but misses by inches.

"Who's slow now?" I taunt back, chest heaving.

The game intensifies, sweat dripping down our faces. We're both surgeons, used to high-pressure situations, and it shows in our laser focus and quick reflexes.

At 10-10, it's anyone's game. Shep serves, and we engage in the longest rally yet. My muscles scream, but I refuse to yield. Finally, I see my chance and unleash a blistering shot down the line.

Shep stretches, his paddle just grazing the ball. It spins wildly, hitting the net cord…

I watch with bated breath as the ball teeters on the net cord, then falls agonizingly onto Shep’s side—game point. I've won.

"Yes!" I pump my fist in triumph, a wide grin spreading across my face.

Shep shakes his head, but I can see the grudging respect in his eyes. We meet at the net, clasping hands in a firm shake.

"Lucky shot, Hankel," he grumbles good-naturedly.

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