Page 63 of Sensual Nights

He shrugged. "I guess this way, the night shift can join in before they go home. It'll be easier for me to meet most of them."

"Oh. That's a great idea."

He grinned and sipped his coffee. "You'll be home at two today?"

"Yes. I promise. I can't wait to see what kind of surprise you have for me. And, once again, for the record, I think it's mean that you told me about it, and then you make me wait an entire day to see what it is."

He chuckled. "It's part of the fun. I'll say this, you'll be thrilled."

She smiled at her handsome boyfriend playing games with her. Then he said, "I think."

"Mason Thompson!"

He laughed. Looking at his watch he stood. "I have to go. I don't want to be late on my first day at the hospital. That wouldn't look good at all."

"No, it wouldn't."

He walked around the counter and wrapped her in a warm, snug, beautiful hug. His hands pulled her close, his right hand held the back of her head to his chest, and she closed her eyes.

The beating of his heart was comforting. Strong and sure. She smiled as she listened to it then took a deep settling breath. This is where she belonged. With this man. Right here in his arms.

She tried pulling away, but he held her close. "Just a minute more," he whispered.

She wrapped her arms around his waist and squeezed him tightly. She lifted her head and looked up into his eyes. "It's okay, Mason."

"We haven't been apart for three weeks. I'm...not ready. I'm worried. I want you safe."

She smiled, slid her hands up his chest, and cupped his face. "I'm safe. I'll be safe. I'll be very careful with every single thing I do. I'll text you often, but don't respond unless you can. I'll only text to let you know I'm safe, so you don't worry. I'll see you right here at home, our home, at two o'clock."

"Yeah. I like all of that." He bent down and kissed her once more. "I love you."

She smiled. "I love you too, and I'll never tire of hearing it from you."

He chuckled, stepped back, and nodded. He stared at her once more, then stepped out of the kitchen and into the garage.

She gathered their dirty coffee cups and washed them. She wiped down the counter and stared at the garage door. She hadn't been completely honest with him. She was scared shitless today. She had to leave the house for the first time by herself and she didn't know if she'd be able to do it.

She took a few deep breaths, then nodded. She grabbed her purse and her computer from the counter and strode to the garage door without thinking about it anymore. She could do this. She had to, she just had to.

38

Taking a deep breath, Mason opened the door to his truck when his phone buzzed. He glanced down at a text from Carley.

"I made it to the office! Go me."

He chuckled and texted her back.

"Good for you. I made it to the hospital."

"Look at us go!"

A smiley face then another text.

"Have a fantastic day."

"You too, beautiful."

He climbed from his truck and strode to the front door of the hospital. As he stepped inside, Dr. Walker Borders stood at the opening with a grin on his face. "Welcome, Mason. I'm thrilled you're here."

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