Page 27 of Alexis

“Sure,” Alexis said.

The other woman lifted her bracelet to Alexis’s forehead, and it beeped quietly for a moment.

“Temperature is normal,” Dr. Pan said, as the hologram flashed and blinked, like it was recording her notes. “Heart rate is normal, fasting blood sugar is in normal range, blood pressure is normal.”

Dr. Pan continued moving her fingers swiftly in the air.

“I’m sorry, Alexis,” she said lightly after just a moment. “You’re not pregnant at this time. But as I say, a pregnancy at this juncture would be extremely rare. I’m seeing every sign that you’re in excellent health. Your chances are good.”

Alexis felt her heart breaking and all the air going out of the room.

It was only then that she noticed Tiago standing in the doorway.

“I look forward to many more attempts,” he told her with a mischievous grin.

“Are you in any pain right now, Alexis?” Dr. Pan asked her, clearly trying to hide her smile.

“No,” Alexis lied.

Her body was fine. But she still had an ache in her heart at coming up lacking again. Maybe if she hadn’t had so many negative pregnancy scans before this one it would be different.

But it wasn’t Tiago’s fault, or the doctor’s. There was no reason to share her pain.

“Enjoy yourself, Alexis,” Dr. Pan said, making eye contact with her. “Having fun won’t hurt your chances, right?”

Alexis shook her head and allowed a small smile to escape.

“Atta girl,” Dr. Pan said, smiling back. “You kids have a fun day. I hear Oberon has big plans for you.”

“Thanks again,” Alexis said, as Dr. Pan headed back out to the door.

Tiago stepped out of the doorway to give her room and moved toward Alexis.

She seemed to really notice him for the first time, and realized he was shirtless, with a pair of jeans hanging low on his hips. He moved with a sinuous grace that had her heart pounding.

Though they had been incredibly intimate last night, she felt a little shy about putting her hands on him again now, but the temptation was almost irresistible.

“Did you sleep well?” he asked, his voice low and growly.

She nodded.

“Me too,” he said. “But now I’m starving. Is there anything good?”

“I looked for protein bars or powders, but there isn’t anything like that,” she said, shaking her head sadly.

“Are you kidding me?” he asked. “You don’t really eat that stuff, do you?”

“You don’t?” she asked, stunned.

“I mean not unless I’m on the road or in a pinch,” he said. “They’re tasteless and full of chemicals. And crazy expensive. It’s much better to cook.”

She smiled at the idea that a prize fighter would be worried about the cost of protein bars.

“You can cook?” she asked dubiously.

“Please,” he said. “Have a seat. Observe.”

She sat and watched as he started a pot of coffee, his muscles bunching and stretching enticingly with every movement.

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