Page 114 of Both Sides Now

He holds up his hand, stopping me in my tracks. "I need time to think. I wasn't expecting this today. It's thrown me for a bit of a loop."

I nod and swallow back my tears. Certainly not the outcome I hoped for—that would have ended with one of his soul-searing kisses, and my skirt hiked up to unladylike levels as my favorite doctor provided me with his own personal brand of examination.

Instead, he remains stock still, save for the incessant tapping of his foot. "I have another patient waiting. My last one for the day. I should go read her file."

He clears his throat, his gaze focused on his hands.

Right. Message received.

Well, Callista, you did what you set out to do. You told Keegan what you wanted.

After reading the letter he wrote for Charlie, I assumed Keegan's cold demeanor was because of a broken heart. After all, that’s what he claimed.

My mistake. The only heart bound for cracking is mine.

His heart has mended up just fine, locking out any concept of us together in the process.

Still, I don’t regret telling Keegan how I feel. It just might take a few decades to bounce back from this one.

Forcing a smile, I grab my purse. "I won't keep you. You have my number. I really hope you use it."

Do I think he will? Not a chance, considering he’s anything but thrilled to see me now. And I don’t blame him. I wouldn’t forgive me, either.

Finally, those bright blue eyes meet mine, his lips pursed into a thin line. "Take care, Callista."

I flash him a brilliant grin, hating to end on such a somber note. Am I dying inside? Absolutely, but he need never know that fact.

I brought him enough grief during our courtship. Time to spare him anymore.

“One more thing.”

He rubs his jaw and offers a defeated shake of his head. “Yes?”

“There's a Fawlty Towers marathon on BBC, starting tonight. I know how you love the show and it’s always good for a giggle.”

He manages a smile, nodding up at me. “Is that a fact?"

"Would I lie about something as imperative as good television? I think not, Dr. Russo."

I walk to the door, but pause and turn, my hand on the handle. “No matter what, I’m so glad I knew you. You brought back my glow. You brought me back to life. Not sure how I can thank you for that, but I had hoped … anyway, it doesn’t matter now. I wish you love. Beautiful and vibrant love. I only pray I didn’t ruin the idea for you because you, sir, are born to love. You’re magical.”

Okay, that’s enough. I can’t stall here any longer, praying Keegan has a change of heart.

Not going to happen.

I swipe at the stray tears and force a smile before walking out of the office. So much for a strong facade.

For a brief moment, I wonder if he’ll change his mind and block my exit.

But when I glance back down the hallway, the office door is closed.

Just like Keegan’s heart.

Once again, I’m reminded that life doesn’t always turn out the way you plan. As I told Shawn, if this plan doesn’t work, I’ll make a new one.

Now, I just have to convince my broken heart of that fact.

Chapter

---