Page 95 of Both Sides Now

The mirage has morphed into a genuine oasis.

But I refrain from giddiness, as the details surrounding the job are murky, at best.

Sometimes, things that sound too good to be true, are just that, and if the last weeks have taught me anything, it’s to proceed with caution.

I shrug and take a bite of my eggs. “Not really, to be honest. You said it might not happen. I don’t put much stock in possibilities.”

“It’s happening. How attached are you to upstate New York?”

Good question, all things considered. “I’m a partner in a relatively large practice, but you already know that. Also, I’m dating a woman who lives there.”

“That didn’t answer my question.”

I sit back and give the doctor my full attention. “It all depends on the offer. Is it better than what I have now?”

Dr. Miner nods, rubbing his hands with his napkin. “Let me whet your appetite, Dr. Russo. Fifty percent control of the largest reproductive endocrinology practice in the tri-state area. Best part, its headquarters are on Long Island, which is where your family lives, yes?”

I fight to maintain a neutral facade. My doctor expression, as Calli puts it.

Dr. Miner isn’t talking about justanypractice. He’s referringto his own, and it’s world renowned. Top of the line equipment, resources, everything. Working there would open the door to a bevy of patient options and treatments—something lacking at my current practice. Plus, he’s offering a full partnership, with as much say in future dealings as he himself possesses.

Right now, I have twenty-five percent control, which means I’m generally outnumbered by my more conservative partners.

“That’s quite an offer, Dr. Miner.”

“You’re quite a doctor. I’d be a fool to let someone else snatch you up. You and I both know that fact.”

“When would you need my answer?”

“I’ll give you a couple of weeks. I understand it’s a big change, but change is vital to growth.” He lifts his mug, nodding in my direction. “Here’s hoping you ring me with some good news soon. Until then, I’ll have to placate myself with another round of drunken karaoke. Maybe that beauty from Los Angeles will want an encore.”

I laugh, recalling Callista’s warning. “Count me out.”

“Ah yes, the little woman no doubt wouldn’t approve,” he jests.

That’s an understatement, although she would be one sexy as fuck dominatrix.

Friday tookits sweet time getting here. To say I’m champing at the bit to see Calli is an understatement.

We talked and texted daily during the remainder of my conference, and she maintained a fun and flirty disposition.

Last night, though, she imbibed a bit of whiskey and was feeling frisky. Did I spend an hour on the phone with her, whispering dirty praise in her ear while she pleasured herself?

Damn right I did.

But phone sex is no substitute for the real thing and I’m desperate to sink balls deep inside her.

Apparently, the feeling is mutual. Calli leaps into my arms the second after she opens the door and holds me tight, pressing her head against my chest. “You’re finally back. You’ve been gone forever.”

I tip her chin up and steal a kiss from her pouty lips.

I really want to rip every stitch of clothing from the woman’s body, right here in full view of her neighbors.

Pretty sure she’s game, too, but Callista and I need to have a talk first.

A serious talk.

“It’s like you missed me or something,” I tease, as she leans in to nibble my neck.

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