Page 89 of Doctor Neighbor

Drinks in hand, I go to Cole and Maddie's condo. The familiar path feels different now, charged with a new significance.

I knock gently on the door, hearing Maddie's laughter from inside. Cole opens it, surprise flickering across her face.

"Buster! What are you doing here?"

I hold up the drinks with a grin. "Thought you could use a pick-me-up. You doing okay?"

"I'm doing great now," she smiles and then caps it off with a tender kiss on my cheek.

"How's our girl doing?"

Cole's eyes soften as she takes her drink. "She's doing great. Come in. She'll be thrilled to see you."

As I step inside, I can't help but feel a warmth spreading through my chest.

I step into the living room, and Maddie's face lights up when she sees me. She's sitting on the floor, surrounded by coloring books and crayons.

"Buster!" she squeals, jumping up and running to me. I kneel to her level, setting the drinks on a nearby table.

"Hey, kiddo! How are you feeling today?" I ask, giving her a gentle hug.

"I'm good! Look what I made!" She grabs my hand and pulls me towards her artwork.

As I admire her colorful creations, I can't help but notice how much stronger she seems. Her cheeks have a healthy flush, and her eyes sparkle with energy. It's a far cry from the pale, tired little girl I saw in the hospital just weeks ago.

"Wow, Maddie! These are amazing. You're quite the artist," I say, genuinely impressed by her drawings.

Cole watches us from the doorway, sipping her drink with a soft smile on her face. I catch her eye, and we share a moment of silent joy at Maddie's progress.

"Do you want to color with me?" Maddie asks, offering me a crayon.

"I'd love to," I reply, settling beside her on the floor.

As we color together, I'm struck by how natural this feels. Maddie chatters away, telling me about her day and favorite TV shows. I listen intently, marveling at her resilience and spirit.

It's hard to believe that we were all in a state of panic and uncertainty just a short time ago. Watching Maddie laugh and create, a sense of peace washes over me. This is what it's all about—these small, precious moments of normalcy and joy.

I think about how quickly my life has changed. It’s been a whirlwind from a confirmed bachelor to potentially being a father. But sitting here with Maddie, I can't imagine my life any other way. The love I feel for this little girl is overwhelming, regardless of what any paternity test might say.

I look at Cole, reluctant to leave this cozy scene with her and Maddie. "I hate to go, but I've got a few more patients to see today," I say, getting to my feet.

Cole nods, understanding in her eyes. "Of course. Thank you for stopping by with the drinks. It brightens my day."

I hesitate for a moment, then decide to take the plunge. "Hey, I was thinking... Would you feel comfortable leaving Maddie with one of James and Patty Harrison's girls one night? I'd love to take you out to dinner."

Cole's face lights up, and I feel a flutter in my chest. "Really? That would be wonderful. I'd love a night out."

"Great!" I grin, feeling a surge of excitement. "I saw James this morning, and he mentioned their girls would be happy to help out."

"That's so thoughtful of you, Buster," Cole says, her smile warm and genuine. "I'll give them a call and set it up. It'll be nice to have a night on the town with my handsome knight in shining armor."

I feel my cheeks flush at her words. “Let me know what they say, and you decide. I’ll make reservations. I’ve got a special place in mind.”

As I head towards the door, I turn back to Maddie. "See you later, kiddo. Keep up the great coloring!"

Maddie waves enthusiastically. "Bye, Buster!"

I leave their apartment, my heart light and a spring in my step. The prospect of a proper date with Cole has me feeling like a teenager again. It's been a rollercoaster for a few weeks, but tonight, we'll have a chance just to be us—no hospitals, no health scares, just two people enjoying each other's company.

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