Page 25 of Just a Distraction

In between the two tests, he reaches for my hands. I settle mine in his and he pulls me to standing, bringing me closer to him. “You know. Almost dying changes a man.”

I bite back a smile. “Okay, now I’m certain we’re in some nineties’ romcom, Milo.”

His gaze takes in my face. “I’m just saying, it puts things into perspective.”

“Oh, how you’ve changed your tune. A few hours ago, you didn’t think you even needed to be taken to the hospital.”

“Jury’s still out on that.”

I cover my eyes and sigh. “I don’t think I’ll ever get the image of them slicing that swing open out of my head.”

“Just think about what an education that was. You’re already ahead in your nursing school coursework with all you learned.”

When I laugh, he continues, tugging me even closer. “Seriously, nurse, am I going to live?”

I take a luxurious moment looking him over from head to toe. He’s still got his Henley on, but his oil-covered pants, socks, and shoes are in a plastic bag on a chair in the corner. The hospital bedding stretches over his legs and bunches around his waist. Even though he’s just been through this ordeal, he’s still completely, undeniably attractive.

“With any luck, I’d guess your chances of a long and healthy life are pretty decent.”

“And what about Milo Junior and Miloette? And Miles and Mia and Emilio?”

I giggle and bend to smooth his hair off his forehead. “Who are they?”

“My other kids. I want more than two.”

“You do?”

“Of course. I mean, if my wife’s okay with it. I like big families. I like kids.”

Why is that so sexy right now? Why am I imagining Milo holding Callum? More importantly, why am I imagining ashirtlessMilo holding Callum?

And . . . now the familiar burning in my breasts starts again.

“Well, I’d say, in my expert opinion and in seeing the way you were treated here in the ER tonight—”

“This morning,” Milo corrects.

I yawn and check the time on the screen near his bed. “You’re right. Three a.m. certainly constitutes morning. But I’d say your future children are going to be A-okay.”

“That’s a relief.”

“How’s your pain level now?”

He grins, his eyes sinking half closed in fatigue. “Almost a one. I really am fine.”

“Good.”

He squeezes my hand. “Hey, I’m sorry about all this. We had big plans for the rest of the evening. They did not include me doing something this stupid.”

“Don’t be sorry.” I make a circular motion towards his chest and laugh. “About any of it. Despite the near-death thing, I had a great night with you.”

“I had a great night with you, too, Rose.”

I don’t want this to end, but some of the adrenaline is wearing off and I’m feeling tired. “Can I tell you a little secret?”

“Tell me all your secrets.”

I hesitate, taking him in. “It’s my birthday. Well, I mean, it was my birthday yesterday.”

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