Page 16 of Faking It with the Off-Limits Doctor

Okay. Maybe I was showing off just a little bit. I had to do something to compensate for the walk of shame I had been forced to do last week at the diner. And yes, a part of me was secretly delighted that he had no idea what I was talking about. Him with all his showy suits that he fills out so well, and me in my scruffy chef whites. It leveled the playing field, if only for one tiny second.

7

Alex

A few days after Dara’s visit and her swift exit, which I found highly amusing, she sent me a text message with two lists of items I still needed to purchase for the dinner party. The first list included the utensils, trays, and serving dishes she would need. The second was all the food.

Having never cooked for eight people, I had no idea how much I was going to need, and I will admit, I was surprised, and yet delighted, when I read it. Dara really was going all out to impress, and my mouth began watering as I read her grocery requirements.

I sent the list off to Barbara, leaving her the lion’s share of the work. I didn’t worry, though. The wonderful woman has not failed me yet.

I had a surgery this morning, so I find myself in the city. Instead of remaining at the clinic, I return to the apartment, telling Barbara I’ll be available on my cell if she needs me.

After a little lunch, I settle down to work when my phone rings. I check the number and answer it.

“You miss me already,” I tease.

“Always,” Barbara replies with a smile in her voice. “I have Jack Norton on the line. Would you like me to put him through?”

The CEO of Spire Healthcare? Of course I wanted her to put him through. “Sure. Thanks, Barbara.”

A second later, I hear Jack’s voice. “Alex, is that you?”

“Hi, Jack. How are you?”

“I’m great,” the older man declares. He has an enthusiasm for life that’s quite inspiring. “How are things on your end?”

“All good here, thanks. Busy as always.”

“It’s not a bad way to be, my friend,” Jack says with a smile in his voice. “I was calling about that meeting we talked about last time we met. I know things have been a bit hectic here, and I apologize I haven’t got back to you sooner. But is there a time when my team and I could come out to see you? I know you’re a busy man too, Alex.”

Jack is in his mid-fifties, broad at the shoulders, with a good strong handshake. I liked him immediately, which is another reason I want to partner with Spire Healthcare. He’s the CEO, and probably the most genuine man I’ve ever met, at least in business.

But I still have a problem. I’ve got the house, I just don’t have anyone to live in it, which is exactly what’s going through my mind while Jack’s talking.

“We certainly can,” I reply. “I’m a little tied up for the next couple of weeks, and I need to check my diary, but can I get Barbara to call you with a time and date?”

“Sure,” Jack says, his voice full of commitment, “that sounds swell.”

“Okay. You’ll be hearing from us soon, Jack.”

“Great. Talk soon.”

When I hang up, I’m a little more stressed than I was before I got the call. I mean, I could wing it and tell them that I’m on the lookout for my future wife. Do I want to chance that? Could it make a difference to their decision? It’s a risk, and I’m not sure whether I want to take it.

How am I supposed to showcase how much I appreciate their family values when I don’t even have a family?

I try to put it at the back of my mind and concentrate on my work, but the niggle remains, and I find myself highly distracted. I’ve done so much already and spent an absolute fortune to secure this deal. I need to figure this out.

Later, when I know he’s home, I ring my brother.

“Hey, man. Long time no hear,” Mike says jovially.

“I know. I’m sorry. Things have been a bit crazy at work, and then I’ve been dealing with the new house in Riverdale.”

“Hey, you’re a hot shot surgeon. You don’t have time for us lowly folk. I get it,” he teases.

I smile. “How’s Cathy and the kids?”

---