Page 23 of Carmine

I approached her as she spoke with Dr Bagshaw, and they paused and smiled warmly.

“Dr Jones-White, would it be possible for me to go to dinner with Carmine?” I asked.

Dr Jones-White frowned. “Honey, why are you asking me?” she said, swapping a confused look at Dr Bagshaw.

“Because of the research—”

“Stop right there, Dr Balfour-Cherlyn, you’re entitled to a life. Sadly, I’m aware of your parents’ ethics, and I’m a little disturbed to see how they’ve affected you. There is an existence outside of work. Please discover it, and from now on in, you’re not allowed in here until eight in the morning, and you’ll leave by six each night. Tell your young man I completely encourage his attentions!” Dr Jones-White said loudly and stared at Carmine, who beamed.

“Don’t you want my input?” I asked, worried.

“Yes, dear girl. But we’re collecting data at the moment. Go and enjoy yourself. As this escalates, you’ll have little free time,” Dr Bagshaw answered and waved me away.

As Carmine led me out, I heard Dr Bagshaw speak.

“That child has no confidence. Honestly, Susan, I’d punch her father straight on the nose for raising her to be a shadow of herself. No doubt Dr Balfour was jealous of Molly’s keen mind and quick thinking. I’m surprised she had the courage to present her theory three years ago and then to do so again…very brave. I hope to see her succeed, Susan,” he said.

“She will because she is more than her parents, and it’s time the girl realised that. Dr Molly Balfour-Cherlyn will have a shining career,” Dr Jones-White replied.

A happy smile crossed my face, and a warm sensation settled in my stomach. Their kind words reassured me.

“Come on Doc, we’re going for dinner,” Carmine said, taking my elbow gently and leading me out of the command centre.

Carmine

I was stunned at hearing Molly’s confession. She’d lived a sheltered life, driven by her parent’s ambition and demands. My heart bled, and I needed to ensure Molly discovered fun. In a short amount of time, I’d become a goner for her, as Mom would say. Molly had snuck into my thoughts, and I was totally head over heels. And I knew Mom and Dad would love her.

“What do you like?” I asked, focusing back on her.

“Oh, I eat anything,” Molly said as we approached her jeep.

“That’s not what I asked. What do you like?” I replied and held my hand out.

Molly looked at it in confusion. “On a date, I drive, and you relax. May I have your car keys?”

Molly smiled softly and my heart tugged as she pulled them out.

“What food do I like?” she murmured as I opened the door, and again, by her hesitation, I guessed this was something nobody had done for her. Molly climbed into the jeep with a shy look.

“Molly?” I asked as she locked her seatbelt.

“Well-done steak and roast potatoes and garlic mushrooms,” she answered firmly. “And chocolate mousse.”

“Then I have the perfect place for you,” I responded. I yanked my phone out and sent Bernard a text, informing him I was coming and letting him know Molly’s favourite food.

“Okay, ready for your first date?” I asked and started the engine.

Molly nodded in a child-like happiness, her smile sweet.

The drive to Bernards was full of conversation, and I slowly got her to open up to me. Once Molly started talking, I discovered she was knowledgeable about a variety of subjects. Molly loved music and movies, and it seemed those got her through her lonely days.

I didn’t pry too much into Molly’s schooling as that dimmed her light but concentrated on making her happy and content. Molly had also studied history and waxed lyrical about the American past and pointed out some things about our state I didn’t know.

Bernard greeted us with his usual flamboyant greeting, fussing over Molly and ensuring she felt special. It was no surprise that Molly didn’t drink much and, therefore, was happy with whatever wine was recommended. I’d picked that up the night we’d spent around her fire pit.

Molly was delighted when Bernard brought her garlic mushrooms as a starter, nestled on a fresh salad. I had my usual stuffed mushrooms, and then we both had steak with roast potatoes and all the trimmings. Molly was so excited she reachedout and hugged Bernard. I was amused when I saw him wipe a tear from his eye.

She was even more spellbound when he brought our desserts, a creamy chocolate mousse with whipped cream and real chocolate pieces. Bernard whispered to me he’d prepared a few more bowls so we could take them home. I offered him heartfelt thanks.

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