Page 35 of One Sultry Summer

When the evening came around, I wanted to show Valerie a night on the town, so I took her to the nearest watering hole. I haven’t set foot in this place for years. It’s a place where locals like to go for a beer or two, dance, and have a good time. It’s a casual atmosphere, and the reason I dragged Valerie to the store to purchase a pair of jeans and boots. She was hesitant at first, but once she put them on, she felt comfortable. She didn’t mind when I told her that her ass looked good in jeans.

Before I pulled open the establishment’s door, I took a deep breath as I knew I would be bombarded with twenty questions from everyone I ran into. However, I also knew that it was Saturday night and people were going to be here for a good time and perhaps they wouldn’t give it a second thought about seeing me. I stoodmotionless as these thoughts ran through my mind.

“Wyatt. Did you want to go in? Or are you having second thoughts about being seen with me?”

I pulled the door open and stepped aside, letting her enter first. “No, not at all. Let’s go on in.” As she walked in, I felt I was deceiving her as I wasn’t forthcoming regarding Lauren. I mean, not telling her feels like I’m lying to her. I’m not sure why I haven’t been truthful about the situation. I know I should have said more when she thought I was married. The music drowned out my thoughts as I stepped inside behind her.

It looked as though several people were waiting for their turn at the bar. I looked around, and the place still looked the same. Even the neon lights hanging above the bar, highlighting the shelves lined with alcohol bottles. The dance floor was encircled by several tables, creating a lively atmosphere, while two pool tablesoccupied the back of the room.

The dim lighting and the hum of conversations created a cozy ambience. A live band played covers of country songs. We made our way to the bar, and I ordered a beer for myself, and Valerie ordered a Shirley Temple. “A Shirley Temple?” I couldn’t help but laugh. “I think I took you for drinking a Manhattan or maybe a Martini.”

“What. Can’t a girl change it up every once in a while.” The smile on her face was radiant. I stood next to her as we waited for our drinks. As I scanned the room, I noticed a familiar face across the bar, which made me dread and reconsider my earlier decision to be here.

Nurse Gina McDermott. I admit that our last conversation outside of work was not my finest hour. I know my reaction to her bringing up Lauren was uncalled for. I’ve been trying to maintain professionalism between us, which has strained the office dynamic. “Valerie, can youexcuse me for a moment? I’ll be right back.”

I approached her cautiously, unsure how to address the past. “Gina, can we talk? I think we need to clear the air.” She looked up, surprised, but nodded. We moved to a quiet corner, and I began to explain my side, hoping to mend our strained relationship. “I want to sincerely apologize for how I handled our last conversation,” I started, taking a deep breath.

“I was defensive and didn’t give you the respect you deserved. I hope we can put it behind us and work towards a better understanding.” I further explained that I was flattered she was interested in me, and that I think highly of her as a staff member, but my feelings for her were only for friendship, and value our professional relationship. “I hope we can move past this and work together effectively.” She nodded, and I could see a hint of relief in her eyes. We agreed to start fresh, focusing on our shared goal of providing excellent patient care.

When I returned to the bar, Valerie was in a conversation with a man I didn’t recognize as he was turned away from me. They laughed, and it seemed like they had known each other for a while. I hesitated, unsure if I should interrupt, but Valerie spotted me and waved me over with a warm smile. As I got closer, I realized it was Devin, her coworker.

My brief jealousy faded as I joined their conversation. Devin had a fantastic sense of humor, and we quickly found common ground discussing how Valerie felt out of place in the country. He also thanked me again for taking care of him when he was sick. He stayed only for a short time since he wanted to call home.

Although he didn’t elaborate, I understood he wanted to keep his personal life private. After he left, I noticed Valerie bit her lip. “Don’t be nervous. Everyone around here is very down to earth.” I took her hand, and we found an open table. I pulled out the chair for her to siton. “Have you ever two-stepped or line-danced before?”

“I don’t think I can honestly say I have.”

“I haven’t done either in a long time, and I might be rusty, but I’m willing to give it a shot if you are.”

“Do you mind if we just sit and watch for a little bit?” I nodded in response. As we sat and people watched, we discussed our interest in music. I found out she was a fan of the Zac Brown Band and Chris Stapleton. Both were among my favorites as well.

The band took a break, and the DJ took over. Several people stopped by, and I introduced them to Valerie. Her body relaxed, and I knew she was finally feeling at ease. The song changed to a medium tempo, and I recognized it wasTwo to Two Stepby Midland. “How are you at following?”

“I can follow, but this is a dance I have never tried. Heck, let’s give it a try.” I offeredmy hand and escorted her to the dance floor. I briefly explained the pattern of movement, to the slow, slow, quick, quick steps. She nodded her head, and I counted it off and began to guide her around the floor. She was adorable as she stumbled for a few minutes until she got the hang of it. She didn’t get discouraged but persevered with determination.

Once the song ended, we walked off the wood floor. She couldn’t help but smile. “Oh my god…that was so embarrassing but so much fun!”

“I almost forgot the footwork myself. I guess it’s true what they say, it’s like riding a bicycle.”

“I would have never guessed it. You’re such a natural. I, on the other hand, wasn’t as graceful and found myself laughing.”

“Well, I’m glad you enjoyed dancing. I’ll let you get some rest, then we can try again. Are you thirsty?”

“Yes.” She followed me to the bar. This time, she ordered a round for us and refused to let mepay. Standing beside her was the town mayor. They got to talking and Valerie was invited to the town hall meeting scheduled for Monday morning.

Our evening was coming to an end, and I was dreading having to be without her. As the last song for the evening played, we slow-danced, and she laid her head on my shoulder. I wanted so badly to kiss her as we swayed to the rhythm. I found myself wanting to hold her tight and not let go.

How is it possible to fall in love in such a short time? Is this truly what I’m feeling? Does she feel the same way? This could be a one-sided relationship, and I may have to let her go when her job is complete. But until then, I’ll make do with what little time I have with her.

Chapter 13

Valerie Masterson

After Wyatt dropped me off Saturday evening, I felt like I was walking on cloud nine. It was the first time I tried country dancing. I admit, I was intimidated at first. As he gently grasped my hand, a wave of nervousness washed over me. I couldn’t shake the unsettling fear of stumbling and sending us both tumbling to the ground.

My nerves slowly melted away as the music played and we began moving. In no time, I was twirling and laughing without a care in the world as the rhythm swept me away. At the end of the night, I felt a sense of exhilaration and accomplishment, grateful for stepping out of my comfort zone.

When the evening ended, we wanted to spend another night wrapped in each other’s arms. Although we knew with Emily being dropped off the next morning, that it would put everyone in an awkward position. I couldn’t shake the lingering joy after we said goodbye. The experience left me with newfound confidence and a desire to explore unfamiliar things.

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