Page 73 of Golden Rule

“Sounds good. I’ll be in touch within the next week or two.”

“Yep.” The smile I flash is stiff, not wanting my friendliness to be misconstrued.

“You ladies take care.”

“You, too. See you soon.”

His steps echo across the floor again, but this time, they’re followed by the loud slam of the metal entry doors.

“You saw it this time, didn’t you.”

“Shut up,” I say again, and she’s laughing as we exit the building. She stands by while I lock up, and I can feel another slick comment brewing as we head back toward our cars.

“Who knows? Maybe he’ll give you a nice discount since he’s crushing on you,” she teases.

I shove her again, and she grins. “Despite your unnecessary banter, I’m glad you came.”

“I’ve been waitingyearsfor you to come home,” she waves me off. “You’re lucky I’m not glued to your hip.”

I bring her into a hug, then wait on the sidewalk until she’s safely in her car. I climb behind the wheel of my SUV, seeing Oliver’s brake lights pop on when I start my engine, and my overall feeling about today is one of gratitude. Things couldn’t have gone more smoothly.

I put the car indrive,then immediately shift back toparkwhen my phone rings.At first glance, my heart begins to race because of the name that’s popped up on the caller ID.

Dr. Tyler.

Today is off to a great start, and God willing, that isn’t about to change.

My hands shake as I swipe the screen to answer. “Hello?”

“Good morning, Mrs. Golden. I hope I didn’t catch you at a bad time.”

I settle deeper into my seat, trying to steady my breaths. “No, not at all.”

“Good,” he says, and the next sound I hear are papers shuffling in the background. “So, listen, I won’t beat around the bush. I’m certain you have a full day ahead of you, but I imagine not having a clear answer about your treatment during yesterday’s appointment left you and your husband with a bit of anxiety.”

“Just a little,” I say, letting a nervous laugh slip right after.

“I figured as much, which is why I put in a call to your previous specialist yesterday evening.”

I’m silent as my heart picks up speed.

“So, after a lengthy conversation with him, and considering my first impression after meeting you and West, I feel confident moving forward.”

I can’t even speak, feeling hot tears streaming down my face.

“The next phase is to continue with pretreatment, at which point we’ll reconnect here at the office to keep the progress rolling. Sound good?”

I sniffle, trying to compose myself before answering. “That soundsmorethan good.”

He laughs a little. “Looking forward to seeing you again, Mrs. Golden. Have an excellent day.”

“You, too, Dr. Tyler. Thank you so much.”

The second the line goes dead, I’m dialing West. I’m pretty sure he’s still in practice, but I take my chances anyway.

“Hey, Babe. What’s up?” he asks, sounding breathless on the other end of the line.

“I’m sorry to interrupt you, but I had to call. I couldn’t hold this in until you got home.”

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