’Tis the season…for love?

Dr. Lora Rice is done flying through life solo. 30 Days to Romance guarantees the Maryland researcher will finally snag the man of her dreams. He’s not Dr. Justin Silver, who is brilliant, full-of-himself and totally wrong for her. So why is her hunky fellow scientist awakening feelings that make Lora long to come in from the cold?

Justin is a man of science. When he finally notices Lora, he no longer sees her as his work-obsessed colleague and competitor for a coveted fellowship, but as an incredibly desirable woman. And when a business trip strands them in a snowbound Minnesota cabin, he’s suddenly a man ruled by desire.

As passion heats up the long winter nights, Justin has to find a way to convince Lora that rivals in business can become the best partners in love….

Kimani Hotties: It’s All About Our Men

He twirled a strand of her hair around his finger. “Weren’t you the one who said scientists are curious?”

“They are.”

He let her hair go, lowering his voice. “So aren’t you curious about me?”

“I have a theory about you.”

“Let’s hear it.”

She shook her head, aroused by his heated gaze. “No, I want to prove it or disprove it first.”

“How?”

“Kiss me.”

His gaze dropped to her body. “Do I get to choose where?”

She lifted his chin and tapped her mouth. “On the mouth,” she said, although his sensuous look made her feel naked.

He feigned disappointment. “Just the mouth?”

“You can choose another spot later.”

“Good.”

When his lips touched hers, she discovered everything she had wanted to. His lips were both sweet and spicy, and they made her forget herself. Soon his kisses made a warm, wet path down her throat. “Have you proven your theory?” he asked, his breath warm against her skin.

“I’m still not sure.”

DARA GIRARD

fell in love with storytelling at an early age. Her romance writing career happened by chance when she discovered the power of a happy ending. She is an award-winning author whose novels are known for their sense of humor, interesting plot twists and witty dialogue. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spring mornings and autumn afternoons, French pastries, dancing to the latest hits and long drives.

Dara loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at contact dara@daragirard.com or P.O Box 10345, Silver Spring, MD 20914.

Snowed in with the Doctor

Dara Girard

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Dear Reader,

“Mistletoe and Misunderstanding”—that’s how the original idea for this story came to me. I wanted to write about three things that fascinate me: 1) the holidays, 2) how opposites attract and 3) sickle-cell research. At first, I wasn’t sure I could pull it off, but I liked the challenge.

Fortunately, the right people fell into place: rash, hotheaded Dr. Lora Rice and cool, methodical Dr. Justin Silver. These two biomedical researchers put my story into action, with a passion for their work and each other. The holiday season helped add a touch of magic to their romance in a way that surprised even me.

I hope you enjoy this story about family, healing and, of course, true love.

All the best,

Dara Girard

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Epilogue

Prologue

October

She couldn’t believe it had finally arrived. Lora Rice ripped open the small brown package, then eagerly pulled out the item inside. She swept her hand over the raised letters on the cover of the book she’d ordered: 30 Days to Romance. Just reading the title gave her shivers of anticipation. Late one night, a week ago, she’d been lazing on the couch in front of the TV with a half-eaten box of chocolate bonbons when a beautiful woman had appeared on the screen.

“Tired of sitting home alone on a Friday night? Do you sometimes wonder if Mr. Right will ever come? If you have, I’ve got the answer for you. Yes, he will. But you have to be ready for him.”

“How?” Lora wondered aloud.

“How, you might ask? With my book 30 Days to Romance you’ll learn the skills necessary to attract the man of your dreams. Whether you’re shy and plain or beautiful but awkward, I’ll give you step-by-step guides and exercises to get you out of your shell and into the life of romance. If I can do it, so can you.”

That night Lora had sat up and listened to the testimonials, then ordered the book. Now it was here. Contrary to what her family thought, she was ready for roses and champagne. She wanted a date who remembered her name and didn’t forget his wallet. She didn’t want to spend another holiday avoiding the office party or family get-togethers. And lately it seemed like her family’s only reason to exist was to set her up on a blind date or discuss what was wrong with her love life.

“You’re nearly thirty-seven,” her mother had said only a few weeks ago.

“I’m thirty-one.”

“Oh, really? You look much older.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

“And if I think you’re older, so will men, and they like their women young.”

“Not always.”

“The clock is ticking.”

Lora didn’t care about the clock. It was the pity she hated. She’d been a wallflower all her life. She didn’t need to look in the mirror to know what everyone else saw. A slender woman of medium height with black square glasses and thick black hair always pulled back in a ponytail or bun. She didn’t consider herself a stunning beauty and never turned heads. A man had never winked at her or even whistled. And she’d tried.

Lora remembered years ago that she had gone to her favorite department store and picked out a colorful pink spring dress, which she matched with a paisley lime-green short linen jacket. She had even bought a new pair of two-inch sling-back heels. After pulling her hair into a large braid, she had courageously walked past a construction site nearby, but she hadn’t even gotten a glance.

At birthday parties, anniversaries and the occasional family gathering, she was overlooked and invisible. But she hadn’t cared much while she was in school. All that had mattered to her then were her grades. Her classes got her out of the house and away from her father’s critical stare. She’d flourished in high school, college and graduate school. How she looked or fit in was never a concern; she was in all honors classes, so she could hide behind her accomplishments. In high school she was president of the science club, and in college she excelled in her biology and chemistry classes, to the point that she was selected by two of her professors to work on several exciting grant-funded projects. Graduate school, where she had studied biomedical research, had been grueling, but Lora loved the challenge, and as always, she came out on top, winning several science awards. A white lab coat had been her primary outfit for the past eight years.

Then her best friend died. Suzette had been anything but invisible. She’d been a bright, vivacious Spanish blonde who made Lora’s life feel like a big adventure. They’d gone to concerts together and learned tai chi. But when Suzette died, Lora’s life of adventure seemed to go with her. She’d buried herself in her work as a researcher. One day when she was walking back to her office, she’d seen this sad, haggard woman in a store window, and it had taken her several moments to realize it was her own reflection. This was not the life Suzette would’ve wanted for her. She was the only person who’d really known Lora. Now, with the help of this book the old Lora would fade away and a new one would be born. Lora Rice would no longer be ignored, especially by one man: Warren Rappaport. He was a newly hired scientist in the department, and he was very sexy.

She’d achieved all that she wanted and was a success in her career. Now she was ready to be a success at love.

Chapter 1

November

Dr. Justin Silver was knockout gorgeous. It was a shame he was such a jerk. Why, of all the labs in the entire world, had he come to work in hers? It had been a cruel twist of fate to have to see—let alone work with—a man she’d never wanted to set eyes on again. Lora had joined Ventico Labs to work under Dr. Shirley Coolidge, a former professor she’d adored, and to research sickle cell anemia. Then Silver had been hired to replace the former director who’d overseen the three lab teams at Ventico. The other two teams were run by Dr. Kevin Yung, who focused on juvenile diabetes, and Dr. Carla Petton, who focused on effective pain management for the elderly. She’d cringed at the thought of working with Silver, but because she hardly saw him and only heard his name once in a while, she had discovered that his presence hadn’t made much of a difference.

That was before the unthinkable happened. Dr. Coolidge left unexpectedly to take care of her sick mother, leaving a vacancy open that Silver had to fill until they hired a new manager. So for the past several months she’d had to deal with him, and now she found herself in his office for her performance evaluation.

When she’d first entered his office, for some reason the thought of desert sands and an ancient Mali palace came to her mind. He had the regal bearing of a king and acted as if he were lord and master of all.

Lora studied him as he sat behind an enormous glass-and-chrome desk, which was organized with military precision or obsessive compulsion, she didn’t know which, nor did she care. He was a difficult man to categorize. His large office, which was enviable in their small facility, had several large windows with a view of the office complex with its manicured lawns and lake. But he didn’t seem to take any pride in his status as director at Ventico Labs. His office was stark and about as welcoming as a broken-glass chair. No pictures were on display on the desk or on the walls; only a large erasable calendar and a Baltimore Ravens cap that sat on a chair in the corner stood out.

The one bit of whimsy was a small silver sculpture that sat on his desk. She couldn’t make out what it was supposed to be, but it looked like macaroni and kidney beans sprayed with silver paint. Something a small child would make. It was positioned next to a large thermos that looked like it could hold enough food for a family of four. The second incongruous item in the room was the chair she sat in. It was surprisingly—almost annoyingly so—comfortable.

Lora hadn’t expected that and wondered if the selection had been accidental. He wasn’t the type to care about the comfort of others, just about getting the job done. He was a man of precision.

Lora flexed her fingers, pushing the sound of his voice to the background as he continued discussing her one-year evaluation. She found his voice unnerving. It was alarmingly deep and almost soothing and as deceptive as an ocean’s wild undercurrent. His voice could make a person ignore what he was actually saying. It could lull a person into agreeing with him, even when you didn’t plan to. She could see why he was so successful as a director. No one argued with him. It was always “Yes, Dr. Silver.” “Of course, Dr. Silver.” But she wouldn’t be conned. Lora knew who he really was. She listened closely to each word and let them cut right through her while she silently planned her revenge.

He’d said that her lab notes, usually handwritten, weren’t always well organized or coherent enough. That, at times, she jumped to conclusions without stating adequate justification. But his most cutting assessment had been when he’d called her undisciplined. Undisciplined? She was one of the best researchers in the lab, and she wasn’t being modest.

She had always been the best. High school valedictorian, youngest student to graduate from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Research doctoral program. Upon her arrival at Ventico Labs, she’d quickly organized several systems there that helped it run efficiently. And not only that, but people actually liked her. Unlike him. Nobody liked Justin Silver, not that they’d say so to his face. He wasn’t someone to like. He was someone to follow, perhaps admire, even reluctantly respect because of his brilliance as a research scientist. But likable? Absolutely not.

She knew the moment she’d seen him again that it would be difficult, but she wouldn’t think about their first meeting right now. He couldn’t hold that against her, could he? They were adults—scientists—and they dealt with facts, not emotions. But with this evaluation Lora knew she wouldn’t be granted the transfer she wanted to work on a project with Dr. Petton. Not only would the transfer allow her to work under a new head, but collaborating on Carla’s project on the use of non-addictive pain medication would greatly advance her study of pain management and sickle cell anemia. Silver was halting her progress and stunting her career growth—and she couldn’t fight him.

“Dr. Rice?”

Lora blinked then cleared her throat. “Yes?”

“Do you have any questions?”

Plenty. Such as whether he had a heart or if he rusted in the rain like the Tin Man. She brushed imaginary lint from her lap. “No.”

“I’m surprised,” he said coolly.

Lora took care to keep her gaze lowered, pushing up her glasses before they slid down her nose. Avoiding his gaze was her best defense. The best way to remain civil. “Why?”

“It’s not like you to agree with everything I say.”

That was true. But what was also true was that he was trying to bait her. She knew she had to tread carefully. She needed to end the meeting and leave. “This is an evaluation. Whether I agree with your assessment is immaterial.”

Dr. Silver leaned forward. It wasn’t an aggressive move, but it put her on notice. “That doesn’t stop me from being curious as to your feedback.”

Lora nodded, straightening the cuff of her sleeve. No, she wouldn’t tell him anything. She’d let him wonder. “Most scientists are curious. That’s why we’re in this field.”

“You’re so angry you can’t even look at me.”

Lora stiffened, sensing the challenge. Not just in his words, but also in his tone. That deep, slow timbre held a hint of mockery. But she wouldn’t let him mock her. She was a different woman now. Different from the one he’d first met. She’d completed fourteen days of her 30 Days to Romance project. Her progress had been slow, but she was determined to succeed. This was going to be a new season for her. She’d no longer be the wallflower.

She lifted her gaze. The moment she did, she knew she’d made a huge tactical error. Silver’s voice was dangerous, but his eyes were lethal. They weren’t just brown—they were like petrified wood, as if any emotion that had once been there had been frozen in time. Nothing was left but cold stone. At that moment she realized that Dr. Justin Silver was one of the most coldly calculating men she’d ever met. Just being in his presence gave her goose bumps.

Again, the desert sands image came to mind. He looked as if he came from a legion of warriors. She could picture him riding into battle, his brown skin polished by the sun, and conquering whoever he deemed his enemy. He had a warrior’s arrogance and cunning. Aside from his steady brown eyes, he had a firm mouth that was solid like a blade and a ridged jawline. His eyelashes were the only problem. They were graceful and beautiful, and it annoyed her that they were wasted on such a man.

But she knew he was not a man to make either a friend or an enemy out of. Lora shifted in her seat. She was required to stay on his team and didn’t want to do anything to jeopardize her position. She boldly held his cold gaze, determined to keep her composure. “I’m not upset,” she said, pleased by the neutrality of her tone.

His voice grew soft and remained low. “Yes, you are.”

Lora sighed, hoping to appear bored, although inside she was steaming. “May I leave now?”

“I’m not holding our first meeting against you, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

“I wasn’t thinking that,” she said, wishing he hadn’t brought it up. She hated that he remembered and mentioned it so casually, as if it didn’t matter.

He frowned, confused. “Then why are you upset?”

“I didn’t say I was upset.”

“You don’t need to. I can tell.”

“I’m sure you can. You’re very observant, after all. I just know you don’t care.” She stood, calculating her distance to the door. “Now excuse me.”

“I do care.”

Lora bit her lip to keep from laughing.

He raised his brows. “You don’t believe me?”

“Does it matter?”

“Yes, I can’t allow what happened in the past to affect our relationship now. I’ve moved past it, but obviously you haven’t.”

“I have. And I’m trying to be polite.”

“Then stop and be honest.”

“And risk losing my job?” she shot back, her patience thinning.

“You won’t lose your job.”

Lora returned to her seat and sat. “Is that a promise?”

Silver fell silent and leaned back, a casual gesture that was anything but. “I already know what you think of me, and I know you’re not shy with voicing your opinion, so why start now? Although you are one of the best scientists we have here at Ventico, there’s always room for improvement.”

“I agree. May I go now?” Lora saw his eyes narrow, but she wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of letting him know what she thought. She’d done that before, and it hadn’t changed anything.

“Yes.”

She stood again and walked to the door, feeling a small sense of victory.

“So what happened to your hair?”

Her hand flew to her hair as if she feared it had disappeared. She spun around and glared at him. “What do you mean?”

“It’s different.”

“I know.” Lora gaped at him, trying to figure out if he was joking, but his tone wasn’t mocking and his expression remained interested. Why was he casually talking about her hair? How had he noticed it? No one else seemed to. She’d gotten a trim and permed her thick hair to make it more manageable. She now wore it in a low, soft ponytail, using a decorative comb to hold it in place instead of a rubber band, and she’d added thin bangs and light brown highlights but nothing dramatic.

His eyes caught and held hers. “Whatever you did, it looks nice.”

Lora blinked, unable to respond. Was that a compliment? Had she fallen into a parallel universe? She turned to the door, eager to escape. It didn’t matter. He could be nice all he wanted, but that didn’t change the fact she thought he was a bastard.

Lora left Silver’s office, sat down at her desk and wanted to scream and kick something. Why did he criticize her one moment and compliment her the next? He was playing games. Yes, Justin Silver would get his payback.

“How did it go?” Carla asked. She was in her early forties, and Lora had met her briefly several years ago but had gotten to know her better while working at Ventico. She was slim with a face best suited for an operatic tragedy. Her lips turned down, and she had large somber brown eyes. She kept to herself. Lora knew she was single, never married, with an excellent mind. She was always very calm, as if she could walk through a storm without flinching. She’d helped Lora through the transition after Dr. Coolidge left and Dr. Silver took over. But although Carla was observant, she hadn’t noticed Lora’s new hairstyle—or at least she hadn’t mentioned it. No one had, not even Warren who she wanted to. Why had Silver noticed? Why had he said anything? “I’m still in one piece,” Lora said with a nonchalance she didn’t feel.

“Lucky you. He nearly made Dr. Yung cry with—”

“I don’t care what he says to me. I know he can be mean.” She’d never let herself care enough to let him hurt her. She was angry but not hurt.

“No, he—”

“How was your eval?”

“It was fine, but from your expression and tone I think I can surmise that we won’t be working closely together.”

“No. He effectively shot that possibility down.” She clenched her hand into a fist and shook it at his closed door. “He’s ruining my career.”

Carla laughed. “It’s not like you to be so dramatic. He’s a savvy director and has a keen eye for what’s best for us and our department.”

“He moves us around like chess pieces.”

“He’s used to winning.”

“So did he say anything specific?” Lora asked.

“Not really. I got good marks. I’m truly hoping he’ll allow more funding for my project.”

“You deserve it. I can’t see him not letting that happen.”

But as Lora said the words, she knew it was a lie. She could easily see him stopping Carla. Just as he had stopped her. If he didn’t think something was worthwhile, he would disregard it. But she didn’t care what he thought of her. He could think whatever he wanted. He was the type to always find fault anyway. But why had he given her a compliment? What was wrong with him? What was wrong with her? She wanted to stop thinking about him. Her makeover plan was supposed to impress men, but he didn’t count.

In following the steps in 30 Days to Romance, she’d already gotten a new pair of designer glasses. She’d tried contacts years ago but had never been able to adjust to them, and she had no interest in laser surgery. She’d also changed her hairstyle and even started wearing lipstick. She wasn’t averse to wearing makeup; she just hadn’t made it a priority. She’d even taken two dance lessons and was learning the salsa.

“I wonder what his evaluation was like,” Carla said as she peered at an attractive black man hurrying past.

Lora looked up and saw Warren Rappaport walking by; she hoped she wasn’t visibly drooling. She’d give him high marks all around. When Rappaport had arrived, most of the women had taken notice, but Carla hadn’t shown much interest. She never seemed to take interest in men, or women, for that matter. Her main focus was her work, just as it had always been for Lora.

“Have you talked to him yet?” Carla asked, knowing of Lora’s interest.

“Not yet.”

“Personally, if I had to choose between Rappaport and Silver, I’d go for Silver.”

“Are you insane?”

Carla held up her hands in surrender. “I know he’s terrifying and a bit distant—”

“As far as the Arctic.”

“But he’s established, respected and easier to read. Warren is attractive, I admit, but he’s still building his career, and he’s a little too charming.”

“How can a man be too charming? Everyone likes him.”

“Hmm. He just doesn’t seem as transparent as he acts. I hope that book you’re reading tells you how to catch the right man.”

“How do you know about my book?” Lora asked, surprised.

“I saw it in your bag. You better be careful about reading it in here. And whose interest you get.” She grinned, then walked away.

Lora folded her arms. Silver’s response was an aberration, that was all. It had to be. She had holiday plans, and Dr. Justin Silver would not be part of them. But Dr. Warren Rappaport definitely would be.

* * *

Justin touched two fingers to the inside of his wrist, then checked his watch. He measured the time and his beating pulse, then swore. Yep, his pulse was racing. He could feel it but wanted to confirm it. This was the effect Lora Rice had on him. It had been the same the first time they’d met, when she’d basically let him know that she thought he was the scum of the earth. Unfortunately, it was no different now. No, he was wrong, it was worse. Much worse. And he wasn’t sure what to do about it.

He found himself thinking of her skin, which was the color of roasted cocoa beans. Her lovely light brown eyes were warm like the sun shining on a white sandy beach. He’d already pictured her naked more times than he could count. At first he’d tried to stop himself, but then he just indulged. Now he couldn’t stop, and he’d started adding details he was eager to verify. This was not good. Women had never been a strong point for him. Facts, statistics, hypotheses he could grasp. But the female mind was a mystery. With three older sisters it wouldn’t seem so, but they’d been more like aunts than siblings. They were older and nurturing of the youngest and only boy in the family.

In his career, he felt safe. Now Lora had taken that safety from him. He couldn’t predict her. She was like a wild variable in a controlled experiment. Why did she have to change her hair? He couldn’t stop staring at the golden highlights that glistened when she moved. He noticed how strands brushed against her neck. It was very distracting.

He knew she hated him and he wanted to change that, but she always met any attempt at a truce with suspicion. He’d just have to try harder. He couldn’t make her forget the past, but perhaps he could get her to forgive him. Hell, he shouldn’t even care. He didn’t want to. After all, she wasn’t just a personal threat, but also a professional one. Lora was a viable opponent in the race for the Poindexter Fellowship, and he had to make sure that he kept his record in place. That’s what he needed to focus on. Not a pair of beautiful brown eyes he wanted to see dilate with desire, or soft full lips he wanted to taste.

Justin glanced out the window. It was a bright, sunny day, but it didn’t disguise the late November chill. People were bundled up as they marched down the street. Holiday wreaths decorated buildings, and strings of colored lights draped around the trees, ready to light the darkness when evening came. Ah, he loved the holidays. He was looking forward to his nieces’ holiday pageant, the food, the gift giving and spending time with his family. They were the only people who seemed to understand him and with whom he could be himself and relax.

But this year would be different; he had to up his game for the fellowship, which meant spending long days and nights, and even weekends, in the lab. His poor dog, Louis, a three-year-old American bulldog, was showing signs of frustration from not having him around. The past two evenings Justin had come home to a house full of shredded paper. Louis had gotten into his study and emptied his trash bin. But for now, he couldn’t worry about his dog—he had something more urgent to worry about. Yes, he’d forget about Lora Rice. He had to.

* * *

Oh, how she hated the holidays. It was the last week of November, and holiday madness had begun. Lora navigated her way through the crowded mall, regretting her decision to help her older sister, Belinda, go shopping. Her sister seemed to have an ever-growing list of people she had to shop for.

When they were kids Lora had nicknamed her “The Bullet” because sometimes she could hit you right between the eyes with a tactless remark or demand. Her sister was beautiful and knew it, and she took advantage of her looks to get her way. She had one failed marriage behind her and was already planning for husband number two.

“Can you make it to my party?” Belinda asked, handing Lora another bag to carry while she studied the mall map.

“I have a cold.”

Belinda looked at her sister, unconvinced. “You don’t have a cold.”

Lora rubbed her throat. “I feel one coming on.”

“You had a cold last year.”

“It’s coming back.”

“And the year before that.”

Lora shrugged. “What can I say? I’m susceptible.”

“To the same cold around the same time each year? Come on, you’ll have fun.”

“No, thanks. You know I hate the holidays.”

“Still? I thought you’d gotten over that. I know as kids we didn’t have many happy memories, especially around the holidays, but we can make up for it now.”

“By drinking with a bunch of strangers?”

“They’re friends.”

“Your friends. Sorry, but my schedule is full.” Full of false cheer, she thought. She didn’t look forward to the office party or her parents’ holiday gathering or her grandmother’s holiday dinner, where she’d be asked again and again if she was seeing someone. She didn’t want to add Belinda’s bash on top of them. She wanted this holiday season to be different. Something had to change.

“I won’t take ‘no’ for an answer,” Belinda said. “You have to come, or I’ll get Mom to force you.”

Lora inwardly shivered. Whereas her sister was like a bullet, her mother was like a pair of handcuffs. Once she locked into you, you couldn’t escape. “Okay, you’re right,” Lora said quickly. “I wasn’t being honest with you.”

“I knew it.”

“I have a date,” she said, hoping her lie sounded convincing.

Belinda frowned. “With a man?”

Lora nudged Belinda with her elbow, affronted. “Of course with a man.”

“Not necessarily. Knowing you, you could be talking about a rat or monkey.”

“My experiments don’t involve animals.”

“What’s his name?”

“Just somebody at work. What’s the next store?” Lora asked.

“Who?” Belinda pressed.

Lora adjusted one of the five shopping bags she was carrying, feeling like a beast of burden. “If it works out, you’ll know.”

Belinda tapped her chin, looking intrigued. She was only carrying two bags because she said she needed to keep her hands free to hold the map and organize their shopping expedition. “You never talk about the people at your workplace except that guy you hate, Dr. Sliver.”

“Silver,” Lora corrected.

“Whatever. So what makes this guy so special?”

“When you meet him you’ll know.”

“Let’s double date.”

“No.”

“But I’m curious. This is your first date in—” She stopped. “Wait...have you ever had a first date?”

“Of course.”

“No, I mean a date you got on your own. Not one set up by me or Mom or Uncle Rudy.”

Lora curled her lip. “Never mention that again.”

“His heart was in the right place.”

“Maybe, but I don’t know where he’d put his brain.” Her uncle Rudy, her mother’s brother, had set her up on a date with a dock worker forty years her senior, whose main topic of conversation was his low libido and fear of dying alone.

“That was a mistake I’ll never repeat.”

“So this isn’t a blind date?”

“No.” Lora gestured to one of the window displays. “Doesn’t that dress look like something perfect for someone on your list?”

Belinda ignored her. “Did he ask you out, or did you ask him?”

“It was sort of mutual.” At least that’s how she hoped it would be one day.

“I want to hear all about this mystery man after your date.”

“You will.”

“And he had better be real.”

Oh, he was real all right. He just hadn’t noticed her yet. When she’d first laid eyes on Dr. Warren T. Rappaport, she’d had to stop herself from staring. She soon discovered that not only was he good looking, with rich caramel skin and chestnut eyes, but he also laughed easily, had a warm smile and always had a kind word. But the best part was the fact that he was single.

Suddenly, Lora spotted him only a few feet away, as if just by thinking of him she’d conjured him up. She had to act fast or he’d be gone. She waved. She didn’t expect him to see her at first, but he waved back and then started toward them. If her arms hadn’t been loaded down with bags she would have clutched her chest. Remember to breathe. Remember to breathe.

“Hi Lora,” he said.

“Hi. This is my sister, Belinda.”

“A pleasure to meet you. I see good looks run in the family.”

“And you are?” Belinda went into her “do you see me” mode. She wasn’t used to being ignored, and Rappaport was surprisingly focused on Lora.

“Sorry,” Lora said, ashamed that she hadn’t introduced him. “This is Dr. Warren Rappaport.”

“There’s quite a crowd here today,” Warren said. “I was just going to escape the madness by getting something to drink. Care to join me?”

Belinda shook her head. “I wish we could, but we have loads more shopping to do.”

“Can’t we finish it another day?” Lora said under her breath.

“No.”

“I’ll call you.”

“But I’m your ride.”

“I’ll find my way home,” Lora said, sending Warren a quick glance. She knew he could hear them.

Belinda made a face. “You said you’d help me.”

Lora clenched her teeth. “I’ll make it up to you.”

“Is he the one you have a—”

“I’ll tell you later.”

Belinda shot Warren a suspicious glance, then grabbed some of Lora’s bags. “All right. Be careful and call me when you get home.” She kissed her sister on the cheek. “Nice to meet you, Warren,” she said as she walked off.

Warren looped Lora’s arm through his. “I thought she’d never leave. Is she always that overprotective?”

“She likes to look out for me.” Lora said, pleased by his charm.

They took the escalator to the third floor and went to the food court, where they were fortunate enough to find a table currently being vacated by a group of teenagers. He asked her what she wanted, then left to get the beverages.

“It’s been a crazy day shopping,” he said, returning with a plate of chips with nacho cheese and two drinks.

“I do most of my shopping online, but Belinda dragged me here.”

He grinned. “I’m glad she did.”

Lora sipped her drink, feeling her face grow warm. “It must not be like home,” she said, trying to recover. Warren had transferred from a small town in Georgia, and it seemed like he hadn’t gotten used to the big city yet.

“No. I had to fight with somebody for Digital Dilly.”

She adjusted her glasses. “Digital what?”

“It’s this new robotic horse that’s all the craze with little girls. You can feed it and take care of it and play games with it on your computer. I wanted to get it for my young cousin who’s sick, but this guy beat me to it. Although I offered him double the price and told him why I wanted it, he refused. He said he wanted it for his beloved niece and nothing could change his mind.”

“Some people are so selfish.”

Warren dipped a chip into the cheese and sighed. “I didn’t expect it from him. But I guess I should have.”

“Why?”

“Because...” He stopped, ate his chip, then reached for his drink. “Never mind. I shouldn’t have said anything.”

“Why?” Lora asked, now even more intrigued. “What won’t you tell me?”

“Because you know him. We both do.”

“Really? Who is it?”

“Silver.”

“What? He’s here? In the mall? I never thought of him participating in normal activities like shopping in a mall.”

“Yep, he can be ordinary sometimes, but he’s a hard bastard to bargain with.”

“I know,” Lora said. Although this was worse than even she had imagined. Why couldn’t he give up a toy for a sick little girl?

“Uh, oh.”

“What?”

“I really shouldn’t have said anything,” Warren said, lowering his head and lifting his hand to hide his face.

“Why?”

“Guess who’s coming our way.”

Chapter 2

“Hello, Rice. Didn’t expect to see you here.”

There was nothing warm about his greeting. It was just a series of stated facts, but somehow it was unnerving. He always unnerved her, and she didn’t know why. He looked more relaxed and less threatening out of his white lab coat, wearing a pair of dark blue jeans and a black leather jacket. Damn, he was a good-looking man. Lora had always suspected it, but now it was even more evident. She caught a woman sending him a glance. She didn’t blame her—she would have done the same if she didn’t know what he was really like. She plastered on a smile.

“I see you’ve been shopping,” Lora said, just to fill the silence.

“Yes.” He lifted the bag, as if in triumph. “My niece wanted this popular toy, and I was able to snag it for her.”

Lora glanced at Warren, who still hadn’t raised his head. Because he wouldn’t mention the incident, she would. Silver had no right to look so proud. “And there’s another little girl who won’t get it. But perhaps you don’t think she needs it.”

He furrowed his brows. “What?”

“I just heard about what you did.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Let me clarify.” Warren lifted his head. “Hey, Silver.”

“Rappaport,” he said, his tone turning to ice. “Still charming the ladies with stories, I see.”

“It’s what I do.” He motioned to a chair. “Care to join us?”

“I have more shopping to do.”

“And more presents to take,” Lora added.

Silver sent her an odd look—a mixture of confusion and disappointment—which for a second made her regret her petty words. But she quickly brushed the feeling aside. She had nothing to feel sorry for. She knew he was a bully who liked to get his own way, and she knew how he really felt about the sick. They were merely “experimental” lab specimens to him. She’d seen his callousness in the past. She didn’t even know why he was still working in medical research. He could get better paid positions elsewhere. Perhaps he just liked the prestige.

“I’ll see you,” he said frowning, then left.

“I seriously hope not,” she muttered, wishing the restless feeling that had seized her would leave. Silver had a strong visceral effect on her that she couldn’t understand.

Warren gave a low whistle once Silver was out of view. “I’d hate to get on your bad side. I see you dislike Silver as much as I do. What’s your story?”

It was too personal to share. “A personality clash.”

“I can see that, but people usually overlook it.”

“Why?”

“He’s a brilliant man.”

Lora played with the straw in her drink, drawing it up and down so it squeaked. “He’s all mind and no heart.”

“That sounds serious. Were you two lovers or something?”

Lora stared at him, outraged. “Absolutely not. Why would you suggest something like that?”

Warren shrugged. “I don’t know. There just seems to be this energy between you two, as if you have a history.”

“We have a history but not as lovers.”

“And you’re not ready to tell me about it?”

“Not yet.”

Warren winked. “I like a woman of mystery.”

“Good, because I have plenty of secrets.”

Warren folded his arms and studied her for a moment, then said, “Have you ever met his family?”

“Why would I want to?”

“So is that a no?”

“A definite no. Have you?”

“Yes.” He leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. “His whole family is that way—proud, arrogant and determined.”

“That’s no surprise.”

“His niece is the worst. She’s spoiled, vain but brilliant and condescending to anyone who she thinks is inferior.”

“How do you know so much? How did you meet them?”

“I did an extended study after graduate school, and Silver and I shared a room. I thought he was okay at first, until he got me kicked out of the program because I won an award he wanted.”

“He got you thrown out? How could he do that?”

“He had connections and a vindictive streak. I’m telling you this so you’ll watch out. It’s not good to aggravate him, no matter how much he annoys you. Don’t get on his bad side.”

“Too late.” Lora shook her head, amazed. “How can you stand to see him every day?”

“He can’t really touch me, so there’s no threat. Dr. Yung loves my work and he’s been at Ventico a lot longer than Silver. Although Silver is the director, he doesn’t mess with Dr. Yung for one main reason—his research is the largest and most lucrative of the three projects. And he has seniority and some powerful allies in Washington.

“So I guess your evaluation was better than mine.”

“Depends.”

“He doesn’t like my methods. He said I was undisciplined and tended to ‘jump to conclusions.’”

“Yes, that’s Silver for you. Every statement you make must be backed up with undeniable proof. He doesn’t seem to understand that science also has an element of art and instinct.”

“Exactly.”

“It’s nice to meet a like-minded colleague. We’ll change the world and leave the others behind. Just stay close to me—I won’t steer you wrong.”

Lora planned to stay close. Very close. Her face flushed as she briefly thought of them in a romantic embrace, lying naked together on her queen-size bed with rose petals sprinkled all around. She shook the fantasy off and regained her composure. “Thanks for the drink and the nachos. It was nice.”

“We should do this again. Perhaps in a place less noisy and crowded.”

Yes, like my place or yours. “I’d like that,” she said, hoping she didn’t sound too giddy.

“Me, too. Call me.” He gave her his number, flashed a heart-melting smile, then left.

Lora hummed all the way home, and when she exited the taxi, she gave the driver a large tip and wished him “Happy Holidays,” which she never did. Yes, this holiday would be different. This year she wouldn’t be shy and alone. She’d found the right guy, and it would stop her family from setting her up or feeling sorry for her. She now had Warren’s interest—and his cell number. It was time for Chapter 4: Catching His Attention and Chapter 5: Reeling Him In. She was ready to put her plan into action and win his heart.

* * *

If Warren was a man who smoked, he’d light up a cigarette. As he walked away from Lora, he realized that he felt better than he had in years. He was going to have a lot of fun with her. He needed some excitement, and she was just the type of woman to give it to him. It wasn’t easy to find a woman who despised Silver as much as he did. It had been bad luck that he’d ended up at Ventico and under Silver’s watch again. But this time, he wouldn’t be vulnerable. And working with Dr. Yung provided him the protection he needed. If he played his cards right, he’d rule that place one day. Getting to where he wanted to be was number one. And he now knew that Lora was the key. He’d use her to put Silver exactly where he wanted him.

* * *

Lora and Rappaport! Justin marched through the parking lot as the sight of the pair burned in his mind. He gripped his shopping bags until their plastic handles bit into his palm. He should’ve guessed. Rappaport always had the good fortune of showing up in the right place at the right time. It was a talent of his. Justin piled his purchases into the trunk of his car, his sense of victory now gone. He’d gotten the toy for his niece, Monique, but he may have lost the woman he wanted. Not that he’d ever had her, but he’d been hopeful. Justin slammed the trunk shut, then got inside his car and headed to his office. He could think clearer there. This wasn’t the outcome he’d pictured when he’d first spotted Lora sitting in the crowded food court.

He’d felt his pulse pick up speed but didn’t care as he watched her happy and inviting smile. He imagined buying her a drink, telling her about his niece and maybe asking her out. He hadn’t noticed the man sitting at the table until he was almost upon her, and he’d foolishly thought he was a brother or a cousin because he knew she was single. Then Rappaport had turned with the same smug look Justin remembered, and he’d seen how Lora’s happiness had disappeared. Not because of Rappaport, but because of him. She’d never looked at him with any warmth or joy. He’d hoped to change that, but obviously that wouldn’t be today. It didn’t matter. This was good; he shouldn’t think of her that way anyway. He needed to remember that she was his competition.

He wasn’t concerned about working late in the office. There was no one at home worrying or waiting for him. He’d already fed and walked Louis, so he knew he’d be fine for the night.

A half hour later he sat in his lab and glanced over his notes. He’d hit a wall in his research, which was unusual for him. Some of what he was doing was more speculative than factual, and he needed to find and add more proof to back up his hypothesis. He knew it would be worth it in the end but, at that moment, he wasn’t sure which direction he wanted to go. He’d been working for almost an hour when he heard a knock on the door. “Come in.”

“This is not good.”

Justin smiled at the man who’d entered. He looked like a misplaced librarian who should be surrounded by books instead of lab equipment. He kept his glasses pushed up over his gray and thinning hair. Dr. Oliver Rollins, who also worked at Ventico, was a renowned scientist from the UK who was both a mentor and a friend, even though he was twenty years his senior. “Nice to see you, too.”

“You can’t push like this.”

“I have to.”

“You know your health is more important than a competition.”

“You don’t have to worry about me.” Oliver was one of the few people who knew all about him. At times it was a relief, but at times like this, it was a burden. Justin didn’t want anyone to use his health as a reason he shouldn’t do what he wanted to. He didn’t want pity or concern. As a child he was diagnosed with moderate to severe sickle cell anemia, and at nine, he’d had to have his spleen removed. It had been diseased from a shortage of oxygen during one of his many pain crises. In elementary school, although his parents were extremely worried and overprotective, he was determined to participate in sports. As a result, he experienced several pain crises and had to be put on strong pain pills. One of the side effects was that he fell asleep often, and by the time he was in high school, the few friends he had thought he was taking drugs. That’s what he hated most growing up— being extremely tired and in extreme pain. But he kept it hidden so no one ever saw him in agony.

The painful crises lasted from 7 to 10 days, and often took about a week for him to recuperate and get back his strength. The hardest part was wondering when another crisis would occur and realizing that, no matter what medication they gave him, the pain would always come back. It felt like being stabbed with a knife in the same place, over and over again. During one particularly brutal month, he had had more than three blood transfusions. As a result, he’d lost a lot of time from school and had to be tutored at home. Fortunately, he was swift and academically inclined and stayed on top of his courses. Being the only person in his whole family with the disease made him feel felt like an outsider.

“I know how to take care of myself,” he said.

Oliver tapped the table. “You haven’t in the past couple years. Your life has only been your work.”

“I’m a passionate man.”

“Who’s living a passionless life. When’s the last time you’ve been with a woman?”

Justin looked at him, stunned. “Oliver.”

His friend shrugged and tapped his chest. “I’m a man. You’re a man. This is not a hard question to answer.”

“I don’t have time for this kind of talk.”

“Justin, you won’t live forever. Make time. You need the soft feel of a woman’s touch. Her warm embrace.”

Justin laughed. “Do you have someone in mind?”

“No, but if you want...”

“I was joking.”

“This is not a joking matter. I am serious. You’re a good man. I don’t want to see you alone.”

“I’m not alone. I have my family.”

“I remember you once saying you wanted a family of your own.”

“That was when I was young and naive.”

“You’re still young.”

“Not young enough to be naive. Let’s talk about something more interesting.”

“What’s more interesting than this?”

“Actually—”

“That was a rhetorical question.”

“I tried a relationship, remember? It didn’t work out.”

Justin had been working at the Johns Hopkins University Medical School as a research fellow when he’d met Devina. She was of African-Mediterranean descent, and although not a great beauty, she was very bright. It was love at first sight. Because of his illness, he had never really dated in high school and college—which didn’t mean he hadn’t gone out with girls. Quite the opposite. The girls asked him out, and his sisters and parents were always fielding calls from one girl or another. But he had never fallen in love or anything even close. With Devina, it had been different.

On their first date he had taken her to see the Alvin Ailey dance troupe at the Kennedy Center. Before long, she was spending nights at his place and their relationship blossomed. Then it happened. He suffered a major crisis and spent two weeks in the hospital. Devina came to visit him the first day he was admitted, but after that she was gone. Oliver had never liked her and had told Justin to be careful, but he hadn’t listened. His sisters also didn’t take to her, but by the time he realized the kind of person she was, she’d left. He never saw her again.

Six months later, he saw an article in a newspaper announcing the appointment of Dr. Devina Davis as director of research at Abbot Labs. It was then Justin realized she had conned him. They had been extremely close, and he’d shared some of his research with her, including the white paper he hadn’t submitted yet for publication. The article mentioned Dr. Davis’s research: stem-cell theory and the cellular manifestation of abnormal hemoglobin. It was the title of his research project. She had stolen his work. No, Devina had been enough of an experience. “This is the best life for me,” he said.

Oliver brushed the thought aside with a quick flick of his wrist. “She was nothing. I told you she was a user and wrong for you, but you didn’t listen. She said things that were not true. I don’t know everything, but I do know this.” He pointed at Justin. “There is a woman out there for you, and I plan to dance at your wedding.”

Justin grinned. “That I’d like to see.”

“And you will. I love you like a son. I want to see you happy.”

“I am happy. I will be happier when I win the fellowship.”

“You’ve already won it twice.”

“I want it again.”

Oliver threw up his hands. “Why? Your reputation is stellar. You could work in any lab you choose. You’ve been quoted and printed in all the leading science journals, and you serve on the board of two nationally recognized science organizations. You sold a science patent to Siesmen for nearly a million dollars, and even though you gave the proceeds to research I know you still get royalties. You’ve achieved more than most men do in their entire lifetime. You don’t need another trophy.”

“I like to win.”

“Even if you win, it won’t be enough. It will be a hollow victory. You need a life.”

“I have a life—my family and my work. It suits me. It always has, and it always will.”

“You’ve given up on women?”

“No.”

“Yes, you have, and that’s why you’re here locked away.”

Justin shook his head. “No, that’s not it. I just needed to get away and think.”

“About what? What’s bothering you?”

Justin sighed. “There is a woman but...forget it.”

Oliver’s eyes brightened. “Really? You’re interested in someone? Who is she? What’s her name? Do I know her?”

Yes, he did know her, but Oliver didn’t need to know that. “There’s a problem.”

“She’s married?”

“She hates me.”

Oliver waved his hand, annoyed. “Then she’s a stupid woman, and you’re better off without her.”

“Exactly, which is why I am here.”

Oliver folded his arms. “Forget this woman and find another. There are so many.” A sly grin spread across his face. “If I were your age and had that face of yours, I’d hardly be in the office, and every morning I’d have bags under my eyes.” He snapped his fingers. “Actually, there is this one woman in particular that Anya has been eyeing for you.”

Justin laughed. “For how long?”

“A couple of months. She met her at one of her grief counseling sessions.” Oliver’s wife, Anya, had started attending the group after the death of their three-year-old granddaughter from a rare form of leukemia. “She says the woman is smart, kind and in her thirties, the right age for marriage and children.”

“I’ll be lucky if I make it to forty.”

Oliver’s tone hardened. “You promised me never to speak like that again. You will live a long, full life.”

“I’m sorry,” Justin said quickly. He hated to see his friend upset. “Okay, what’s her name?”

“They don’t share real names in the group to keep a sense of anonymity, so, Anya calls her Lillian.”

Justin poured apple juice from his thermos, then took a long swallow. A date would be something to distract him from thinking of Lora. What was the harm? “If she’s willing to meet me, I’m open.”

Oliver beamed and patted him on the back. “Good boy. That’s my Justin. You’ll really like her. Just remember to be a bit more...” He searched for words.

“What?”

“Gracious.”

“I am gracious.”

“Tactful then. At times you can be too ‘to the point’ with people.”

“I like to be honest.”

“You can be honest without being inconsiderate. Those who know you understand you, but to others...”

“I’m a cold bastard. I know what they say. I’m not going to soften my words because people have self-esteem issues. I’m running a lab, not a kindergarten class. And when it comes to women, I don’t believe in false flattery.”

“You’ll have to soften your stance for the right woman, and she’ll be worth it.”

“Have you met her?”

“No, but from everything Anya has said, you’ll like her. Also, we have a great gift for you this holiday. Remember that party I told you we’re having this Saturday?”

“Yes.”

“We’re expecting quite a crowd, so we rented a hall for the event. There’ll be great food, live music and great company. I want to see you there. Let’s head out now, and I’ll tell you more. You need to eat.”

“I’ll take a rain check.”

“Promise to work no more than an hour.”

“Okay.”

“I’ll be back to check.”

“I know.”

Once Oliver had gone Justin sat back in his chair, no longer able to focus on work. His friend wanted him to have the life he had stopped hoping for. But perhaps he could hope again. Perhaps he could let himself dream about having a family of his own. He could imagine his home filled with the scent of his wife’s perfume and the bright smile of a son and daughter greeting him at the door. He’d take them on vacations to the beach and holidays in the South Seas. Perhaps this would be a true season of miracles. He thought of Lora and Rappaport. The image of them together still stung, but his friend had given him something else to think about. It was then, at that moment, that he realized he would give up the Pointdexter Fellowship and all it promised, if it meant he could have the right woman by his side.

* * *

As she sat in the circle, Lora wondered if she was finally ready to move on from grief counseling. The meetings had helped her cope with Suzette’s death three years ago, and she did feel stronger.

The holidays were always hard for her. It was as if they magnified every pain, every heartbreak, but somehow this year, for the first time, she felt as if she could survive. She felt as if she could be happy again, live again. She knew that’s what Suzette would have wanted. After returning home from the mall and calling her sister, she’d been surprised that her thoughts hadn’t gone to Warren but rather Silver. He seemed to always fuel her into action. Justin made her angry, and somehow she welcomed it because he was the one person who continued to make her feel. Before him she had stopped feeling, ever since Suzette’s death from sickle cell anemia. She’d buried herself in her work and had been sleepwalking through life until she’d seen Justin Silver again over a year ago. Just seeing him filled her with fire, and it was both a pain and pleasure. No other person could make her react as he did, but it was good because it forced her to feel. It forced her to act.

She would beat him in the competition, and then she’d transfer to another lab while putting her love life in order. She knew Warren was the perfect choice. She no longer wanted to grieve—she wanted to rejoice.

At the end of the counseling meeting a short, silver-haired lady she called Annabel came up to her. She always looked ready for a good time, as if she’d host a tea party with cups filled with gin. “You’re looking pretty today,” she said. “What’s the occasion?”

“It’s part of my plan.”

“Plan?”

“Yes. I’ve been reading this book called 30 Days to Romance.”

Anya pinched her lips as if she’d tasted something sour. “A book?”

“What’s wrong with a book?”

“Nothing, it’s just...why didn’t you tell me you wanted romance? A book can’t tell you anything about men that I don’t already know. If you want a man, just say the word.”

“I already have one in mind.”

“So do I. And I bet you my choice is better than yours.”

Lora giggled at the thought of her friend setting her up. “Mine is successful, funny and handsome.”

“So is mine, but he is also very kind and considerate. He’s thirty-six and never married, but he wants to be, and he treats his family well.”

“He sounds like the ideal man.”

Anya grinned. “Curious?”

“Definitely.”

Annabel clasped her hands together. “Good. This is what I’ll do. I’m hosting a party this Saturday, and I’ll introduce you then.”

Lora remembered Annabel handing her the invitation two weeks ago, but she hadn’t responded. “I’ll be there.”

Lora left the meeting wanting to sing despite the bitter cold brushing her face and the bare trees shivering in the light breeze. Could it be this easy? Would she really find a match this year? She trusted her friend. She was always honest and had helped Lora through some of the dark days following Suzette’s death. Now was the time for hope and light. Yes, she was ready to live again and find love. After all, it had been more than three years since she’d met Justin Silver, who’d attracted and repelled her on the same day.

Chapter 3

Three years ago

She had just gotten a call from Suzette’s mother that Suzette was going downhill fast. Lora grabbed her jacket and car keys and was out the door in less than a minute. As she drove to the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, Lora could barely focus. She was totally unaware that she was going sixty miles per hour in a thirty-five-miles-per-hour zone. All she could focus on was the fact that she wanted her friend to live. What would she do without her? They had known each other since first grade. It had been an instant friendship. They were both new to the school and the area, and they were both first generation, born in the United States to immigrant parents. Suzette was the third child born to parents from Spain and Italy and she had not been screened at birth. It was only by accident, when she had had a crisis and had gone to a hospital, that the emergency room doctor tested her for sickle cell anemia. That was when she discovered she had the disease.

Before then, and unfortunately afterward, whenever she had a crisis and turned up in an emergency room, she faced doctors who thought she was just a junkie wanting to get high on pain killers. They never considered that a fair-haired, blue-eyed young woman would have sickle cell anemia.

Lora was shy, and some of the kids had picked on her, but Suzette had instantly taken Lora under her wing and was always there to speak up for her. They had fun sleeping over at each other’s house and having picnics in the backyard with their dolls and stuffed toys. But, although there were the good times, Lora also remembered her friend being ill from time to time and having to miss days from school. Thankfully, Suzette’s mother let Lora visit her at home, but there were times all her friend could do was lie on the couch. Through elementary and middle school she had watched Suzette get sick, but no one knew why until she was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia when she was in her first year at college.

No, her friend could not—would not—die.

As she drove up to the hospital, Lora felt a sickening feeling in her stomach. She put up a small prayer. “God, please, please, don’t take Suzette from me.” Then she entered the hospital, signed in and raced to the tertiary unit. Suzette had been transferred there overnight. When Lora entered Suzette’s room she saw a lonely figure sitting beside her bed. Mrs. Gannotti, Suzette’s mother, had short reddish-brown hair and green eyes, which were red and puffy from crying. She’d divorced Suzette’s father shortly after Suzette was born, and he had never kept in touch with his daughter. Mrs. Gannotti had never remarried, and Suzette was her only daughter. Lora could see the devastation on her face.

Lora walked over to the bed. Suzette lay still, her face ashen and drawn. As Lora got closer, Suzette turned, looked up at her and barely managed a smile; her blue eyes had lost their bright spark, and her blond hair lay limp on the pillow.

Lora took her hand. “What handsome doctor’s attention are you trying to get with all this drama?”

“I’m so tired,” she said in a hoarse whisper.

“I know, but you have to get better. Are you in pain?”

“No.”

“You’ve fought this before, and you will again.”

Suzette’s eyes welled with tears. “I don’t think I’ll make it this time.”

Lora swallowed, struggling to keep her own tears at bay, her heart constricting with pain. “It’s going to be all right.” She turned, hoping Mrs. Gannotti would agree. She remained mute, but her eyes showed her fear. Before she could say any more, a group of doctors entered the room.

“Good morning, Mrs. Gannotti,” said a tall skinny man leading the group. Lora recognized him as Suzette’s physician, Dr. Monroe. “How did she sleep last night?”

After Mrs. Gannotti answered, Dr. Monroe turned and discussed Suzette’s case with the group of white coats. Lora noticed another man, not just because he was the only black man in the group or even because he was exceedingly handsome. She noticed him because he didn’t seem to have the clinical distance the other residents had. Actually, he didn’t look like a resident at all; he looked aware and tuned-in. She looked at his badge: Dr. Justin Silver. She saw his gaze drift to Suzette, compassion apparent in his eyes. Lora could tell that he didn’t just see Suzette as a patient or a disease to be analyzed; he saw her as a person. She wanted to tell him all about Suzette. That she liked eating hot-fudge sundaes sprinkled with nuts and going to live stage musicals, and that they planned to go to Aruba one day. That her friend was the reason Lora had decided to make sickle cell research her focus.

Instead, she watched Dr. Monroe finish his talk, take a cursory look over Suzette’s medical chart, then send a significant look to Dr. Silver. Dr. Monroe smiled and said goodbye, and the group left. Lora stroked Suzette’s hand for a moment, then turned and went into the bathroom off of her room just to breathe. She had to be strong for her friend and Mrs. Gannotti. As she headed out of the bathroom, through the half-opened door she heard Dr. Monroe’s voice coming from just outside Suzette’s room. “What do you think about the Gannotti case?”

She peeked her head around the corner and saw him speaking to Dr. Silver.

“The same as I did the first time,” Dr. Silver said in a flat tone. “You told me about her. Her case is too far gone for the treatment I’ve been working on. She’s going to die, so this is the best place for her. Just keep her comfortable and let nature take its course.” He rested his hands on his hips. “We shouldn’t have wasted time.”

“Her mother didn’t agree to her being in a trial, but I spoke to her friend Lora, and she thought there may still be a chance that—”

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