“How about a couple hands of spades?”

“Okay, but why not make it interesting,” J.D. said. “How about a kiss for the winner of each hand?”

“I’m in,” Shae said boldly.

Lines creased his forehead. “Are you sure you want to do this? I wouldn’t want to take advantage of you.”

“This was my idea, remember?”

“Then you better get ready for a beat down,” J.D. answered in a superior tone. The note of sensual promise in his voice encouraged her, adding a forbidden element to the game.

Minutes later, J.D. leaned against the wall, counting his books. “How did you do?”

Peeved, Shae rolled her eyes. “You know exactly how I did.”

Chuckling softly, he touched her arm. “Time to pay up….”

Her attitude evaporated instantly as a ripple of excitement surged through her. Shae leaned closer and her eyes fluttered shut as J.D. claimed her lips. A sensuous current spiraled through her, completely destroying her previous calm.

Slowly loosening his hold, J.D. relaxed against the wall, although his eyes still glowed with a savage inner fire. “Ready for another hand?”

KAREN WHITE-OWENS

is the author of four successful romance novels and one novella. Someone To Love will be her fifth full-length release. In addition to writing and her work as a librarian at the Mount Clemens Public Library, she divides her free time between her husband, Gary, editing manuscripts for aspiring authors and teaching essay writing to freshmen at Wayne State University.

Someone to Love

Karen White-Owens

www.millsandboon.co.uk

I would like to dedicate Someone To Love to my family and reading audience. Without both groups’ unwavering encouragement and support, I’d probably give in to my lazy side and sit in the center of my bed watching soap operas and eating popcorn instead of writing. Thank you.

Dear Reader,

Welcome to Someone To Love. I hope you like the story as much as I enjoyed writing it. Over the past three years, I’ve gotten very close to the Daniels family.

I introduced readers to this family in my previous title You Are Loved. In that novel, Lisa Daniels’s struggle with infertility and her love for Matthew James touched many hearts. The saga continued with Cynthia Williams and David Daniels. David’s drive for professional success and Cynthia’s determination to find the parents that abandoned her as a baby garnered Circles of Love a great deal of recognition and a lot of mail from readers. Someone To Love will toss Lisa and David’s younger brother J.D. and Shae Weitherspoon into the limelight.

There are occasions when writing can be a lonely job. It warms my heart to hear from readers who have interesting comments about the stories and the characters that I create. Don’t be a stranger, feel free to e-mail me at romwriterkwo@yahoo.com or drop a note at P.O. Box 40366, Redford, MI 48240. I love hearing from you.

Happy reading!

Karen White-Owens

Contents

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

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 1

Shae Weitherspoon caught her bottom lip between her teeth while twisting a lock of her hair around her finger. This was her third attempt to reach her father.

The voice mail kicked in and she heard the computer-generated voice stating that she should leave a message. Seconds later the message was interrupted by a breathless, “Hello? Hello?”

Relieved, Shae said, “Hey, Mommie.”

“Shae-Shae,” her mother responded. “Where are you?”

She grinned at the use of her childhood nickname. “Airport.”

From her seat, she studied the patrons hurrying up and down the hallway, dragging luggage behind them as they searched for their correct destination. Shae shifted in her seat and glanced out the ceiling-to-floor window, watching the Northwest Airlines employees prep the gray-and-red planes for their next trip. “I decided to try one more time to say good-bye before the plane took off. Pop didn’t pick up his cell phone and he wasn’t at the office, so I thought he might be at home. Is he there?”

“No, honey. He left soon after you did. I don’t know when he’ll get back.”

Shae swallowed her disappointment, blinking rapidly while fighting the urge to cry. Why wasn’t she surprised? As far back as she could remember, Prestige Computers had been her father’s obsession—his family, his life and his mistress. Albert Weitherspoon had started Prestige Computers in the basement of his Compton home; the company manufactured computers for consumers. At first, it wasn’t easy. Albert and Vivian Weitherspoon struggled for years, fighting to keep both their home and their business afloat. Then, the boom in personal computers hit. Computers became more affordable and Prestige rocketed into the major leagues and competed with the likes of Dell, IBM and Hewlett-Packard.

Not satisfied with conquering the personal computer market, Albert had added a business division. The new division flourished and soon after Prestige went global with servers and software security systems. Now, Pop was at the top of his game. The computer company that had begun in the basement of their small town house had become a Fortune 500 company.

In keeping with the Weitherspoon’s new financial and social status, they moved to a more affluent neighborhood. Their modest Compton town house was replaced by a ten-bedroom mansion with an inground pool located in exclusive Malibu. Shae’s parents concentrated on her future—enrolling her in the best schools and making sure she had the proper friends during her childhood and adolescence.

She gained a wonderful education and lived the best life that money could provide, but…Shae lost her father in the process.

As Prestige Computers grew, Albert Weitherspoon disconnected from his family. Board meetings, business trips and making money replaced birthdays, family outings and holidays.

The Pop that taught her how to ride her first bike, read her bedtime stories and chased monsters from under her bed had disappeared. He was replaced by a stranger who put in cursory twenty-minute visits at family functions.

Tired of the jaunt down memory lane, Shae returned to her present dilemma. “Mommie, I’m not dropping off the face of the earth. You know how to reach me. Chicago is just a phone call away.”

“How long do you plan to stay there? When are you coming home? What about your father’s sixtieth birthday? Will you be back in July for that?”

“Mommie, it’s April,” she sighed, crossing her legs. “There’s plenty of time to work things into my schedule. I’ll figure everything out once I’m settled.”

“Shae, I don’t understand.”

That line had become her mother’s latest buzz phrase. Sadly, Shae’s parents had never understood what drove her to complete her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and then accept the nurse practitioner and manager position in Chicago. No matter how many times Shae tried to reassure her parents, they balked and attempted to convince her to remain in Malibu.

Dropping her free hand into her lap, Shae added, “Once the medical director and I have our first meeting, I’ll have a better idea of the timetable he’s recommending for the opening of the clinic.”

Her mother’s long-suffering sigh reached Shae’s ear. She rolled her eyes toward the ceiling as a reaction to her mom’s dramatics.

“Why do you have to do this?”

“Because people need help, Mommie.”

“But, Shae-Shae, why you? There are communities near Malibu that could benefit from your skills and knowledge.”

“Why not me?” It was Shae’s turn to sigh. She needed to feel that her life meant more, that she had something to offer those who were struggling.

Because Shae’s parents wanted to hand her the world, it came as a major shock to them to find that their sweet baby refused to comply with their wishes for her future. Shae had vetoed their plans to send her to an exclusive liberal arts college; instead, she opted to attend a university with an excellent nursing program. Once she completed her degree, her father offered Shae a position in his company, but Shae had accepted a traveling nurse position at a small community hospital in Montana.

Shae’s parents continued their attempts to manipulate her life whenever she came home. The Weitherspoons, hinting it was time to think about marriage and a family, invited every bachelor they knew to dinner. Their daughter countered this blatant matchmaking with the fact that she was only twenty-six years old and far from an old maid; there was plenty of time for love and romance. For now, making a difference in the world burned brighter in her heart.

“Honey,” Mommie’s voice turned soft and persuasive, “the position with Prestige is still available. Your dad has always tried to get you to come on board with him. This would be a wonderful opportunity for you both. You’d have your own department to run. Things would be done your way. The employees would love to have a good nurse on staff. Think about it. You could do so much good.”

“That’s not for me, Mommie. I want to help people who need me and don’t have the same resources that the folks at Prestige have. Besides, if I worked for Pop, I would be his glorified office pet. I don’t want that,” she declared, glancing at the attendants manning the NWA station. “I’ve still got a little time before we board. If Pop comes home, have him call me.”

“I will, baby. I will.”

“Love you, Mommie. I’ll call after I’m settled.”

“Love you, too, Shae-Shae.”

Close to tears, Shae disconnected the call and slipped the phone inside her Emilio Pucci bag. Despair and loneliness threatened to engulf her.

This decision had not been made lightly. Although Shae hadn’t lived at home in years, she shared holidays and vacations with her parents—well, actually, her mother. After weeks of soul-searching and listening to her parents’ insistence that she didn’t need to leave California, Shae had chosen the position in Chicago. It was hard leaving her mother and her home. Striking out alone hadn’t been easy. It frightened her. But this choice fulfilled the promises she made to herself.

Shae shut her eyes and reached for calm. I need to get my mind off my family, she thought, rummaging through her bag for her Stephen King novel. Determinedly, she opened the book. At first, the words danced on the page before her, making little sense. Soon, however, the characters drew her in and Shae forgot everything except the unfolding story.

The insistent soft repetition of words pulled Shae away from chapter four. The low buzz grew in volume. Frowning, she closed her paperback. Concerned that someone needed medical assistance, the nurse in Shae searched the sparsely populated Los Angeles International Airport boarding area for the source of the sound.

Her gaze zeroed in on a tiny Asian lady approximately fifteen feet away. Less than five feet tall, the woman was dressed in a pair of coffee-brown polyester pants and a brown, rust-and-white striped short sleeve top. Black canvas shoes covered her feet. Head bowed, eyes shut and arms wrapped tightly around her body in a protective gesture, the woman rocked back and forth, rhythmically chanting unrecognizable words.

The air in the boarding lounge practically sizzled with tension as the mantra sped up. Silently, the airport patrons in the woman’s vicinity began to fold their papers and close their laptops and books. Travelers near the woman frowned and edged away. Several passengers rose from their chairs, gazing back at the woman as they located new seats in what they hoped was a safe location.

Uneasy, Shae tucked her book away inside her bag and rose from her chair. She moved swiftly across the grey carpet and slipped into the chair next to the little woman.

“Excuse me,” Shae began, speaking softly so that she didn’t frighten the older woman.

Ignoring her, the woman continued to rock back and forth. Her voice rose an octave.

Uncertain what to do, Shae waited a moment more, hoping for a response. When none came, the nurse reached out and gently touched the woman’s arm, stroking her fingertips across the bare skin. “Are you all right?”

Instantly, the chanting ceased. The woman turned and her eyes seemed to clear as she focused on Shae. “Huh?”

Smiling reassuringly, Shae gave the woman a clinical once over. She felt the warmth of the older woman’s wrinkled skin under her fingertips. “Hi. I’m a nurse. Are you ok? Do you need help?”

Deep age lines etched her tea-colored face, extending up into the gray-and-white peppered hair. “Noooo,” the woman answered, then returned to her chanting and rocking.

Shae muttered softly, “Well, I’ve been dismissed.”

Now Shae knew the woman was not suffering from any physical ailment; as to the woman’s mental state, Shae was uncertain. Standing, she straightened her form-fitting silk, coral-colored top and matching Capri pants. Ready to return to her Stephen King novel, the young woman’s gaze landed on a man seated several rows behind the older woman.

He was playing a game of solitaire on the empty seat next to him. His long fingers lifted cards and moved them from one location to another. Every few seconds, his uneasy gaze returned to the chanting woman and his forehead crinkled into a frown. As the volume of her chanting increased, the man’s hand grew still above the cards, as if he were fighting to stay focused.

The imprint on the deck of cards caught Shae’s eye. The design was unique. The background was brown with tan highlights and the lettering was in a red calligraphy. She couldn’t make out the letters, but the cards were very unusual-looking.

Glancing at the Asian woman, the man gathered his cards and slid them into a box. He rose and wove his way through the rows of chairs to the attendant’s desk.

Shae admired the slick line of his tall, muscular frame as he stood at the counter. Dressed casually in a navy sweatshirt embossed with gold University of Michigan lettering and denims, she couldn’t help but appreciate the striking image of broad shoulders, narrow hips and smooth, blemish-free, caramel skin.

Dismissing this tantalizing picture, Shae returned to her seat, gathered her belongings and prepared for the flight. Soon, she would be on her way to Chicago and a new life. A smile as big as her birth state of California spread across Shae’s face.

The overhead pager squawked and the pleasant voice of the gate attendant filled the area. “Ladies and gentlemen, we are ready to begin boarding for Northwest Airlines Flight 734 bound for Chicago. This is a non-stop flight. We will begin boarding with first-class passengers, World Perk members and anyone with small children or physical restrictions. Please step to boarding gate 10. Have your boarding pass ready.”

Shae rose, picked up her bag and started for the gate, clutching the envelope containing her boarding pass. She pulled the thin slip of paper out and handed it to the attendant, stepped through the door and then hesitated.

Her father hadn’t called. Shae gazed out the window, past the tower, toward Malibu. Sadness filled her heart. She hadn’t been important enough to say goodbye to. Although she hadn’t lived with them in years, she would miss them and the luxurious lifestyle they’d given her. But it was time for her to get on with her life. Chicago offered a challenge, validation of her personal worth and more. It gave her a significant way to help others.

Drawing in a deep breath, she started down the ramp. This was the right decision, and she planned to make the best of her choice.

Chapter 2

James Darren Daniels handed his boarding pass to the Northwest Airlines attendant, then strolled through the door and down the connecting ramp. His steps slowed as his heart hammered against his chest. J.D. brushed away the single bead of perspiration traveling slowly down his neck as he neared the airplane entrance. Flying bugged him. Long or short flights—it didn’t matter. It felt unnatural to J.D. to travel through the air in a sardine can with wings. It was an opinion he expressed to anyone who would listen.

J.D. hoped this would be his last trip for a very long time. Once he made it home, he’d start the hunt for an assistant, someone who was willing to take on most of the travel and keep him out of the “friendly” skies. Then J.D. would be free to handle the negotiation portion of the business, the part of the business he could do by phone. He would only have to fly out for the final review. J.D. nodded. The more he thought about it, the more he warmed to the idea.

The pilot and lead flight attendant stood outside the open door of the cockpit. Dressed in black uniforms trimmed in red, they greeted passengers as they entered the aircraft through first class. The flight attendant ran an appraising eye over J.D., and then flashed him a little sexy smile. Interesting, he thought.

After acknowledging the crew members with a slight dip of his head, J.D. inched his way down the narrow, center aisle. Every few moments the line halted as travelers found their seats or stored the luggage in an overhead compartment. J.D.’s lips turned down at the corners as he studied the cramped, noisy cabin and waited.

Expelling a hot puff of air, the young man wished that this flight was over and he was home. If he had his way, things would soon be very different. There were better ways to enjoy a few hours after clinching a big deal. Ways such as shooting hoops with his buddies followed by two or three rounds of drinks at his favorite sports bar offered a much more pleasing alternative.

Finally, to J.D.’s relief, the line began to move again. Slowly creeping along the aisle, he considered and rejected several alternative modes of transportation. The train, a bus or even a car were safer, but all were much too slow. Deals that he normally concluded in hours would turn into days, maybe even weeks. Although he loathed to admit it, flying remained the most efficient and quickest way to travel and do business.

J.D. had considered a train trip home. It would have been nice but his new client, Amir Jonson, kept stirring up all kinds of problems at home. Now he needed to get back as quickly as possible to perform damage control. So J.D. had to fly.

Glancing at his boarding pass, J.D. discovered the location of his seat. Oh, man! Obviously, he had had too much on his mind when he’d booked this trip. He was stuck in the middle seat, squeezed like a melon between two equally uncomfortable travelers.

J.D. found his seat and stored his laptop bag in the overhead compartment. “Excuse me.” He pointed at the empty space between two occupied seats. “I’m right here.”

Nodding, a rotund woman in a pink silk pantsuit rose and shifted her bulk into the aisle, blocking others who waited impatiently for J.D. to move out of the way. He stuffed his large frame into the tiny seat and fumbled for his seat belt. Conscious of their limited space and to prevent accidentally bumping into his seatmates, J.D. pulled his arms tight against his body after he snapped his seat belt in place. Uncomfortable, he shifted in his seat. An older man snored softly, open mouthed. J.D. shut one eye and grimaced, rubbing his nose in an attempt to dislodge the stale odor of beer.

Was it possible for him to switch his seat to something more comfortable? His eyes darted around the cabin. No. The plane was filling to capacity. Shutting his eyes, J.D. decided sleep represented the best form of escape.

A howl of outrage shattered the quiet murmurings of the plane’s cabin. J.D.’s eyes flew open. Glancing behind him, J.D. focused on a baby several rows back.

In a fit of rage, the red-faced infant shrieked. Within seconds, his cries turned into screams. Frantic, the boy’s mother tried to soothe him, rocking the little one back and forth, offering comforting words.

J.D. flinched away from the baby’s demanding tones. The aircraft hadn’t got off the ground and he was already in plane hell.

The infant’s mother groped inside her bag, produced a bottle and shoved it into the baby’s mouth. Blissful silence followed.

Across the aisle J.D. noticed a woman rocking back and forth. Her soft murmurings were almost musical as they increased in volume. His heart slammed against his chest. This was the Asian woman from the boarding area. The chanting became more insistent and demanding. Praying for a quick and quieter flight, he tried to tune the woman out.

A blond flight attendant walked past the woman several times. Each time, the attendant’s gaze swept over the tiny Asian and then focused on J.D. with a question in her eyes. After her third trip, the flight attendant stopped and leaned near the woman. “Ma’am.” She waited. “Ma’am,” she said louder. “Are you all right?”

The chanter’s head lifted slowly. She stared blankly through almond-shaped eyes at the blond woman dressed in a black-and-red uniform. The tiny woman blinked several times as if she were coming out of a fog and needed to clear her vision. “Yes.”

“If you’re fine, then I must ask you to stop. You’re disturbing the other passengers,” she explained in a quieter tone.

Blissful silence followed and J.D. let out a thankful sigh of relief. He laid his head against the headrest and closed his eyes. Suddenly, he felt a gentle touch on his hand.

“Excuse me, sir?”

He opened his eyes to find the flight attendant leaning over his seatmate, watching him with concerned blue eyes. “Yes?”

“Is something wrong?” her soothing voice probed.

“No. I’m fine,” he answered, darting a quick gaze at the Asian lady.

She smiled reassuringly at him. “I couldn’t help noticing how crowded it is. We have a seat available in first class. Would you like it?”

Yes! J.D. yelled silently. He quickly rose and climbed over the woman in the aisle seat. Grabbing his laptop, J.D. followed the attendant up the aisle and to the front of the plane. He glanced at her badge, noting her name.

“Here you are.” Smiling, she waved a hand at a steel grey leather chair that looked twice the width of his seat in coach.

“Katie, I really appreciate this.”

“I’m sure you’ll be more comfortable here,” she answered before returning to her work.

“Thank you.” He sank into the plush seat, stretched his legs in front of him and sighed. This was so much better than being sandwiched between two people.

J.D. glanced at the person sitting next to the window. Surprise, surprise. The woman who’d tried to help the chanting woman sat next to him.

Her complexion was the color of caffe latte, with skin that looked so soft that he had to fight to keep from running a finger across her cheek. Auburn curls framed her features. High cheek bones and full, sensual lips brushed with plum lipstick were framed by a delicate oval-shaped face. Long, thick auburn lashes showcased her beautiful eyes. Slowly her eyes opened and focused on him. J.D. caught his breath.

Gray. Her eyes were the most delicate shade of gray he’d ever seen.

This woman made up one gorgeous package. Pleased with what he saw, he smiled back at her.

Shifting into a more upright sitting position, she ran a hand through her hair. “Hi.”

“Hi,” he replied.

She stretched out her right hand. “I’m Shae.”

He took the hand that she offered. When he looked down at their linked hands, he found his nearly swallowed hers. “James. Everyone calls me J.D.”

“Nice to meet you, J.D.”

“Same here.” Shae’s skin felt warm and smooth.

She smiled, tugging gently at her hand. Embarrassed, J.D. let go; it dropped to her lap. Her delicate scent floated around him, filling his nostrils with the tantalizing fragrance of exotic fruits.

Yes, indeed. This was much better than his previous seat. He got to stretch out and enjoy complimentary champagne and had the added bonus of a beautiful woman at his side. This was a hundred times more pleasant, and he planned to enjoy every minute of it.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this is Captain Floyd speaking. We seemed to have hit a patch of rough weather. I’m going to ask you to stay in your seats with your belts buckled until further notice. We’ll try to move above the turbulence as quickly as possible. Thank you.”

J.D.’s hands gripped the armrests as the plane shook. The cards scattered in all directions on the tray. After several unsteady minutes the plane leveled off. He sighed.

Hiding her own nervousness over the rough flight, Shae watched his movements. His hands shook slightly while he gathered the deck of cards into a single pile and shoved them into the box. She’d noticed the cards earlier. They had a distinctive design. A mocha brown background was bordered in a thick black line. The letters J.D. were printed in red and stretched from the left bottom corner to the upper right.

Feeling a spark of sympathy for this man, she decided to try to distract him. Shae tapped the box.

“Those are unique. Where did you buy them?”

J.D. turned the box over, then handed it to Shae. “A couple of my college buddies had these made for me as a gift.”

“Very nice.”

“Yes, they are. I call them my lucky deck. Whenever I travel I need to have them with me. They’re a great source of solitary entertainment when I’m stuck in an airport.” He chuckled. “It’s my variation on the lucky rabbit’s foot.”

“I understand.” Shae handed the box to him. He lifted his hips off the seat, shoved the box into the pocket of his denims, then dropped back down and returned the tray to its proper position.

Without warning, the plane began to rock and J.D.’s empty hands clenched into tight fists. The skin around his knuckles was taut. It was silent for several minutes as the plane rode out the bumpy weather. When everything settled, he blew out a sigh of relief and ran his hand over his shaved head.

Shae’s gaze swept his face. Perspiration beaded on his hairless dome and forehead. His right leg rocked from side to side. A twinge of sympathy tugged at Shae’s heart.

Poor baby, he’s so nervous, she thought. For several minutes she debated whether she should intrude. He seemed so uncomfortable that she had to do something.

“J.D.?” she whispered softly.

He turned to face her. “Mmm?”

“Are you okay?”

“No. I’m not a very good passenger,” he admitted reluctantly.

“Any particular reason?”

J.D.’s face scrunched up. “I’ve never been very good at flying. It’s a necessary evil that I’ve learned to live with, but never like.”

“What’s different today?” Shae asked.

Wincing, J.D. shook his head. “I don’t want you to think that I act like a wimp all the time. Unfortunately, I lost a family member a few years ago when his plane went down.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. That doesn’t make it any easier, does it?”

“No. And turbulence doesn’t make me feel any safer. I’d rather be on the ground.”

Chuckling, Shae responded, “You’re not alone. Don’t fret, a lot of people have problems flying. There’s no shame in that.”

He seemed to consider her remark before answering. “Since 9/11, my anxiety has increased. I’m more nervous. I put off flying as long as possible.” He ran his tongue across his lips. “There’s this mental image in my head that won’t go away. I see those planes crashing into the World Trade Center and I can barely make myself board.”

She patted his hand, not surprised by the fact that he would reveal such personal information to a stranger. Many times people find it easy to confess things to someone they don’t have a connection with. “Maybe I can help.”

He studied her with a troubled expression in his eyes. “How?”

Offering J.D. an encouraging smile, Shae gently pried one of his hands away from the armrest and enfolded it between both of hers. “It’s easy. I can hold your hand, talk to you, offer a distraction from thinking about being in the air.”

The expression in his eyes warmed her heart. Shae knew she had made the correct choice. Gratitude flashed from his eyes.

“Right now I’ll take any help I can get.”

“Don’t worry about anything.” She intertwined her fingers with his. “I’ll be right here. Just hold on to me.”

Shae kept her word; she didn’t let go. For the next hour she kept them both occupied with questions about Chicago. When the flight got bumpy, Shae smoothly shifted the conversation to her life. She entertained J.D. with her stories about Malibu, her family and friends—any topic that would keep J.D. engaged.

As they neared Illinois, the flight settled into a smooth pattern and the pilot turned off the seat-belt sign. All in all, things had turned out well. Best of all, Shae had discovered a new and exciting friend.

Chapter 3

“Ladies and gentlemen, we’ll be landing at Chicago O’Hare Airport in approximately 10 minutes. For your safety, please remain in your seats with your seat belt fastened until the plane comes to a complete stop. Thank you for flying Northwest Airlines and have a wonderful stay in Chicago. Flight staff, prepare for landing.”

J.D. watched the flight crew hurry up and down the aisle, removing empty soda cans and pretzel bags. They checked passenger seat belts and returned trays to the upright position before returning to their seats.

Right on schedule, the plane touched down on the concrete, bouncing along for several seconds before rolling to a smooth stop. J.D. felt his body go slack with relief. He’d made it home in one piece. Still holding Shae’s hand, he turned to her, offering a smile of gratitude for her gentle support.

He wiped his brow and tried to come up with a way to make himself look less like a wimp and more self-assured. Honestly, he didn’t know what to do. Maybe some wonderful inspiration would strike him before they parted company.

“Shae, thanks for everything. You are an angel.”

“You’re more than welcome.”

He offered her a weak smile. “I’ve definitely made up my mind to hire an assistant. That person can handle all the long-distance travel.”

“It sounds like a plan,” she answered.

“The best I can come up with.” J.D. unbuckled his seat belt, stood and stepped into the aisle, making a path for Shae. She opened the overhead compartment and reached for her bag. “Here, let me help you.” He wrapped his hands around her waist and shifted her out of the way. Something intense flared between them when he touched her.

Stunned, he stood like a statue, gazing at his hand. Shae’s sweet voice snapped him back into the real world.

“You don’t have to do that.”

“I…it…it,” he stammered. Inhaling a deep breath of calming air, J.D. forced out, “It’s the least I can do.” He felt lightheaded from the emotions swirling inside him. The hours they had spent together had made him realize that he wanted to get to know this woman better.

Shae smiled her thanks and shifted out of his way as he pulled the bag from the white shelf and handed it to her. “Thanks.”

J.D. pulled his black laptop bag from the shelf and secured it on his shoulder. He cupped her elbow. “Let’s get out of here.”

“I’m ready.” Shae accompanied him past the flight crew. J.D. studied her profile as they made their way down the ramp. She was a beautiful woman and he didn’t plan to let her walk away without getting her telephone number or address.

He steered her down the ramp and into the boarding area. They entered the airport side by side.

Inside the airport, J.D. halted, taking a minute to acclimate to his surroundings. Different city and airport, but the same routine. Commuters hurried up and down the walkway, pulling luggage after them, talking on cell phones while they searched for their boarding area. “Come on, let’s get our luggage.”

Several passengers from their flight rushed by J.D. and Shae as they strolled toward the baggage claim area. At the baggage carousel they stood together, silently waiting.

The Asian lady who had caused such a ruckus on the plane shuffled past J.D. and Shae, stopping a few feet beyond them. Seconds later a small group of Asians rushed up and greeted her.

“Mei-Mei,” an auburn haired woman called, wrapping her arms around the older woman. “You made it.”

Each person took a turn hugging Mei-Mei. The tall, male member of the group asked, “How was your flight?”

Mei-Mei’s lips pursed and her forehead wrinkled into a frown. “They wouldn’t let me alone.”

“Why not?” he quizzed.

A serene, knowing expression spread across her face. “I said the blessing prayer over and over for a healthy boy and that Miho wouldn’t have much pain. They wouldn’t let me continue after I got on the plane. They said I was upsetting the other passengers.”

One of the women patted the older woman’s hand and said, “Don’t worry about that. Those people do not understand our customs.”

“You are right.” Mei-Mei asked, “How is Miho?”

“Miho gave birth to a nine-pound boy. His name is Henry.”

Overhearing this, J.D. felt heat burn a path up his neck and into his cheeks. He really didn’t intend to eavesdrop on their conversation, but the group was so close that he couldn’t ignore them. He supposed he should step away, find a different spot to wait, but he was curious. So J.D. stood near the Asian family and acted as if he didn’t hear them. Curiosity forced him to continue to listen.

The young man offered his arm sympathically, “We received our blessing. Thank you, Mei-Mei, for all of your help.”

Hugging the tiny Asian woman, the midnight-black-haired woman asked, “How long can you stay?”

“Until Miho is ready to return to her work.”

“Wow! That long?” One of the young woman rubbed Mei-Mei’s arm. “Great!”

J.D. turned to Shae and found her staring back at him with her mouth hanging open. She grabbed him by the arm and quickly drew him away from the family. “Good grief! I can’t believe it. I thought she was in pain. Instead, she was praying for a healthy baby.” Shaking her head, she giggled. “Amazing!”

Glancing back at the woman and her family, he smiled. “That it is.”

Their conversation was interrupted by an orange light flashing and an intermittent beep, beep, beep coming from one end of the baggage carousel. Bags shot from the opening onto the rotating carousel. Within minutes, J.D. had retrieved their luggage.

“Is someone coming to pick you up?” J.D. asked.

“No. But don’t worry. I’m going to take a cab.”

“There’s no need for that. I’ll give you a lift.”

Shae’s gray eyes widened in alarm. Biting her bottom lip, she took a step away from him and pulled her purse snugly against her side. “Thank you for the offer, but I’m fine,” her voice shook as she spoke.

She’s apprehensive, he thought. A dart of anxiety shot straight into his heart. That was the last emotion he wanted her to feel for him. Shae doesn’t trust me. Why should she?

Running a hand over his face, J.D. softened his voice. “Look, I’m not some mad rapist or killer. Other than my problem with flying, I’m an average guy.” Maybe if I show her that I am a decent man it will alleviate her fears. All he wanted to do was spend some additional time with her.

Removing his wallet from his back pocket, J.D. flipped to his driver’s license. “See, that’s me. All I’m offering is a ride to whatever location you choose.”

Her eyes shifted between the picture, then his face. “Why?”

He raised his hands in an act of surrender. “Because you’ve been so compassionate. I want to return the favor. The least I can do is make sure that you get where you’re going. I mean, it’s my turn to do something nice for you.”

Her brow wrinkled as Shae evaluated the truth of his words. She caught her bottom lip between her teeth, studying him.

J.D. held his breath, silently praying she’d accept his offer, which might possibly open the door to a future meeting, maybe even a date. After what seemed like hours, but was in fact no more than a few tense seconds, Shae spoke. With the air of someone who had just thrown caution to the wind, she replied, “Thanks. I appreciate the help.”

“No, thank you.” J.D. grinned broadly at her. Until Shae had said “yes” he hadn’t realized how worried he was that she might reject him. Sure, he found her beautiful, but there was so much more that he wanted to learn about her.

Now that they were going to be spending a bit more time together, J.D. was concerned Shae not believe he was a coward. “I want to thank you for helping me during the flight.” He let out a sigh of relief, then turned to her with an expression of embarrassment on his face. “I kind of acted like a big sissy earlier. I’m sorry. That’s not me in the normal scheme of things.”

Placing a warm hand on his arm, Shae offered him an encouraging smile. J.D.’s skin tingled on the spot where her hand rested. “Don’t be concerned, I understand. I’m glad I was able to help.”

His embarrassment vanished. He felt his mood lighten. This woman was amazing.

Shae watched J.D. stroll toward long-term parking while she waited at the curb with their bags. She shook her head and giggled. Who would believe that after less than twenty-four hours away from home she’d be so frivolous? What was happening to her? she wondered. Why would she agree to get into a car with a complete stranger? You know why, a voice whispered in her head. She agreed—because she felt something special going on between them. Feelings that she wanted to explore.

Shae knew that her mother would be on her way up to God if she knew her only child was putting her life in jeopardy this way. But J.D.’s gentle face and expression pushed its way to the forefront; she believed J.D. when he said all he wanted to do was pay her back in some small way for all her kindness.

J.D. zoomed up to the curb in a black Chrysler Cross-fire. After he stored their luggage, the couple headed for the Downtown Marriott on Michigan Avenue. Forty minutes later he brought the vehicle to a halt in front of the hotel. Instantly, the valet and bellboy approached the car.

He popped the trunk, got out of the car and removed Shae’s belongings. Immediately, the bellboy placed her bags on the cart and started for the entrance. J.D. tossed his car keys to the valet, helped Shae from the car and led her into the two-story lobby with a hand at her elbow. He waited while she completed the check-in process and followed her up the elevator to the penthouse, halting outside the suite’s entrance.

“What do you have planned for dinner?” J.D. asked.

Shae shrugged, nervously turning her key card over and over in her hands. “I’ll order from room service.”

“Don’t do that.” He moved a step closer. The warmth of his body penetrated the layers of her clothes. “Let me take you out for dinner.”

Her heart rate accelerated and a rat-a-tat-tat continued in her chest as she considered J.D.’s suggestion. Up to this point, everything had gone well. He had been a perfect gentleman. There were no accidental touches or intrusions into her personal space. Had he been setting her up for a major seduction? Was she pushing her luck by trusting him one more time?

Shae closely examined his handsome face. Albert and Vivian Weitherspoon’s warnings came flying back. “You have to be careful,” they always advised. “Remember,” her mother would add in her special tone that always made Shae feel like the village idiot, “there are people that prey on wealthy young women as trusting as you are.”

All her life Shae’s parents had warned her about the pitfalls of allowing people to get too close to her. Mommie and Pop had continually reminded her of her social and financial status as the daughter of a wealthy man. Her father constantly harped about her girlfriends, boyfriends and the university she attended; he was especially harsh about her boyfriends. Albert Weitherspoon managed to find a problem with every male she’d ever brought home. The poor souls weren’t serious, didn’t show respect, were too silly or too old. Unless he hand chose the guy, no one was ever good enough for Albert Weitherspoon’s daughter.

Yet, Shae had always fought for her own choices. Moving to Chicago was an example of that. This was her life. The life she chose. Now, a handsome young man was asking her out.

“Look, if you’re still worried, we can leave a message at the front desk so that they know where we’re going for dinner and what time to expect you back.” J.D. added a disarming smile. “Please?”

It was time for her to take charge of her life. She needed to stop worrying about what her parents thought. “All right, I’ll go.”

A big grin slowly spread across his face. “What time would you like me to pick you up?”

“Why don’t we get together at six? That’ll give me a little time to relax,” Shae suggested.

“It sounds great. I’ll see you then.” Hesitating for a moment, J.D. reached for her hand and squeezed it gently. “You won’t regret it.”

Shae shoved the key card into the door slit and turned the door knob when the green light flashed. She moved into the suite’s hallway and took a quick glance over her shoulder. J.D. stood, waiting at the elevator.

She was going out with a person she had met on a plane less than four hours earlier. Smiling, Shae shut the door after her. She hadn’t been in town for an hour, and already she had a date.

Chapter 4

At 6:00 p.m. Shae opened the door to a freshly shaved and showered J.D. Casually dressed, he looked great in a camel-colored V-neck sweater, a coffee-brown crew-neck T-shirt and rust-colored trousers. White sneakers peeked from beneath the hem of J.D.’s pant legs.

Shae grabbed her bag and headed out the door, trying to push her concerns about the evening from her mind. She clutched the strap of her purse and studied her dinner date, hoping she wasn’t making a major mistake. When J.D. turned away, she regarded him with somber curiosity. Who was J.D. really? After all, they had only known each other for a few hours.

They took the elevator to the lobby, detouring to the reception desk where Shae gave the clerk her door key card. Before leaving the hotel she instructed the woman behind the desk, “If I get any calls, you can tell them that I’m at dinner and to please try again in a couple of hours.”

Flashing Shae a dazzling smile, J.D. cupped her elbow in his warm palm and they strolled out of the Marriott into the sixty-degree weather. Cars, SUVs and busses zoomed by as they made their way along Michigan Avenue.

He stopped in front of a mud-colored brick building sporting a cloth red-and-white striped awning; small, white tables with umbrellas lined the front of the building. J.D. opened the door and guided Shae inside. The mouthwatering aromas of oregano, tomatoes and garlic instantly greeted them.

A chubby man with midnight-black hair slowly waddled from behind a counter. The waiter shifted his large bulk between the tightly packed rows of tables, making his way to the door. “Table for two?”

J.D. nodded, then turned to Shae with a look of dismay spreading across his face.

Shae touched his arm. “What?”

“I just assumed that it was okay. That’s not always true. You might have allergies or problems with milk. Who knows, you may not like Italian food,” J.D. said. “It never occurred to me that you might not like pizza. I wanted to take you to someplace where you would feel comfortable and safe. I figured you’d be a little tired after the flight and wouldn’t want to go someplace glitzy where we had to dress up and be on our best behavior.” J.D. waved a hand around the restaurant. “This seemed a lot better.”

Smiling, Shae patted his arm reassuringly. She wasn’t the only person worried about their date. “Relax. Everything is fine. I love pizza.”

They followed the waiter to a quiet section of the room. A white-and-red checked vinyl tablecloth covered the tiny square table. Two very shiny wood chairs faced each other from across the flat surface.

J.D. helped Shae get comfortable at the table, then slid into the opposite chair, flashing his companion a beguiling smile. “I know it doesn’t look like much. Trust me, this place makes the best deep dish pizza that I’ve ever had.”

“What do you like on your pizza?”

“Meat,” he answered quickly. “I like pepperoni, sausage, chicken. Meat.”

Frowning, the nurse asked, “What about vegetables?”

“That works for me,” J.D. replied nonchalantly.

Together the pair studied the menu before finally selecting a Meat Lovers’ Deep Dish Pizza. Shae added mushrooms, olives and green peppers and an antipasto salad. J.D. ordered a carafe of Lambrusco wine.

All of her adult life, her father’s business associates and the men in her social circle had tried to impress her, hoping to get closer to Albert Weitherspoon. It was nice to be appreciated for herself. Here she was out on an ordinary date with a person who didn’t know or care about her background or her connection to Prestige Computers.

Linking her fingers, Shae rested them on the tabletop; she intently studied the man across the table. “This is nice. I’m glad you convinced me to get out of the hotel. To be honest, I probably would have stayed in my room until the first day of work.”

Grinning, he teased, “See, I’m having a positive effect on you already.”

“Yes, you are.”

The waiter returned with two long-stemmed glasses and a carafe of red wine. He filled each glass before strolling away on short, stubby legs.

J.D. lifted his glass and touched it to hers. “Here’s to new beginnings.”

Smiling, Shae repeated, “New beginnings.”

Shae leaned back in her chair and sipped her wine, enjoying the sweet and fruity flavor. Watching her date closely, she decided to ask the question that had been on her mind since they’d met. “J.D., what do you do for a living that makes it necessary for you to fly all over the country?”

He smiled, swirling the wine in his glass. “I’m a sports agent.”

Surprised, her eyebrows lifted. “Really? What does that mean exactly?”

“I represent new talent in the industry. Most of my clients are basketball players.”

Impressed, Shae asked another question. “Are you allowed to name names?” She giggled, then admitted, “I probably wouldn’t know who they are, anyway. I don’t keep up with sports.”

“The people I represent are new talent. You wouldn’t recognize them. Most are on the college circuit and are seeking an opportunity to move to the pros. It’s my job to help them make that transition. That’s why I travel so much. Part of what I do is make sure there’s a good match between player and team—then I coordinate things with the NBA draft. I have to see how they play, then talk to the teams that might be interested in making an acquisition.”

Nodding, Shae queried, “Is that difficult? Do your clients have any idea where they want their careers to go?”

Everything feels so awkward and stiff. She smiled, thinking, But that’s how it normally is on a first date, until we settle down a bit.

He leaned closer and grinned, “Most times, no.”

Laughing, Shae said, “I imagine that makes things difficult for you.”

“Very,” J.D. agreed, taking a sip of his wine. “They all believe they belong on the top professional teams. Most times my clients have only played in high school and then for a short time in college. Very little pro ball. When I tell them they have to work at their careers, they give me plenty of grief. Kids don’t understand that you have to build a career.”

A smile lit up his face and made J.D. appear younger and more carefree. Shae tapped a finger across her lips. “Once you acquire new talent, how do you market them?”

J.D. reached for the carafe and carefully topped off both of their glasses. “The biggest problem I have is new clients who don’t understand the building a career thing. No one becomes a superstar overnight. I try to explain that it’s like being a movie star. Actors begin their careers with small roles. As they develop a reputation, they move to better, more ambitious roles.”

“Does that work?”

“Sometimes. Unfortunately, I’m dealing with young guys straight out of high school or college who think they should be making what Kobe makes, because they’re legends in their own minds.”

Shae’s shoulders shook as she laughed heartily.

“That’s enough about me. Is this your first time in Chicago?”

Shae shook her head. “I was here about a month ago for a job interview.”

“Did you get it?”

“Yes.” She grinned proudly.

J.D. asked, “Doing what?”

“Nurse practitioner.”

He tipped his head and his glass in her direction. “Very nice.”

“Thank you.”

“Are you going to work in one of the hospitals?” J.D. inquired.

“No. Actually, there’s a new clinic opening on the south side that I’m heading up.”

Nodding, J.D. folded his arms across his chest. “Good. There are some communities there that really need the help.

“What made you decide to become a nurse?” J.D. shifted the condiments on the table to make more room. The waiter wobbled the couple’s way with a large bowl of antipasto salad and two plates.

Shae glanced covertly in J.D.’s direction. She hoped she hadn’t sounded like a Goody Two-shoes. It wasn’t her plan to destroy the pleasant mood of the evening, but he’d asked her a direct question about a topic that she felt passionate about. “When I was sixteen, my family took a vacation to Africa. It’s a beautiful place, but, it’s riddled with poverty and sickness.”

J.D. nodded.

The waiter put the salad in the center of the table and distributed the plates. Shae took the salad tongs and scooped the lettuce, tomatoes, black olives and meat onto J.D.’s and then onto her own. She placed the tongs inside the bowl and shook out her napkin, spreading it across her lap.

Shae elaborated. “I remember thinking that there had to be something I could do—some way that I should be able to help. When we got home, I decided on a career in nursing. After graduation, I worked for Doctors Without Boundaries. We worked in El Salvador and several Africa countries. And you know what?”

Fork poised above his salad, J.D. said, “What?”

“I’ve never regretted it.” Shae shrugged. “This isn’t about money. So many people have so little and can benefit from my help. I can give back a little—maybe make life easier for people.”

“You will,” the young man answered emphatically.

Turning away shyly, she said, “Sorry. I didn’t mean to pick up the bullhorn and preach to the choir.”

Reaching for her hand, J.D. enclosed it between both of his. He began to stroke his thumb across the soft skin. “There’s nothing wrong with being passionate about your work. It’s important to care.”

Before Shae could add a word, her cell phone rang. “Excuse me,” she murmured, wondering who would be calling her. She checked the number, threw an apologetic glance in his direction and answered, “Hi, Mommie.”

“Shae, you didn’t call.” Mrs. Weitherspoon accused in a worried tone. “I was concerned about you.”

“I’m fine.”

“I left a message at the hotel. I was surprised that you were out.”

Shae rolled the edge of her napkin in her lap under the cover of the table. “I’m out for dinner with a friend. I’ll call you when I get back to the hotel. Okay?”

“Friend? What friend? You just got to town.” There was a note of hysteria in Vivian Weitherspoon’s voice.

“Mommie, I’ll call you later,” she repeated firmly.

“But—”

“Bye, Mommie,” Shae said before disconnecting the call. She shoved the phone into her purse and smiled apologetically at J.D. “Sorry.”

“No problem. Your mother was worried that you hadn’t arrived.”

“Yeah. One of the hazards of being an only child. Parents are continually concerned about you.”

J.D. grinned back at her. “I’m one of five and my mother always calls wanting to know when I’ll be home. Will I be home for Sunday dinner? Or what I’m eating? Am I getting enough rest? Need I go on? I’m twenty-eight years old and I’ve been living on my own for at least ten years. I can take care of myself.”

“I know exactly what you’re talking about. I did a turn as a traveling nurse for two years. I thought my mother was going to worry herself into an early grave. The company sent me on some pretty interesting, uncomfortable assignments. I did fine. I can handle myself. Yet when I talk to my mother, I become five years old again.”

He chuckled sympathetically. “You’re not alone. I think that’s how parents behave.”

J.D. and Shae were so engrossed in their conversation that neither heard the server’s approach. He cleared his throat before placing a metal pedestal on the table while balancing the pizza on a tin tray in his other hand. The waiter arranged the pizza on the pedestal and moved away.

Shae sniffed the air appreciatively. “This looks wonderful.” Slicing into the pizza she reached out for J.D.’s plate. Placing a slice of the deep dish pizza on his plate, Shae handed it back to him before serving herself.

The pair fell into a comfortable conversation. J.D. talked about the city and Shae asked questions about the local sites.

“Mmm,” she moaned, wiping her mouth with her napkin. “That was great.”

“The pizza was exceptional and so was the company,” J.D. complimented.

Shae tipped her head in J.D.’s direction. This evening had turned out much better than she’d hoped. “Ditto.”

J.D. settled the bill and guided Shae out of the restaurant. The sun had set and the downtown area was quiet. They retraced their steps back down Michigan Avenue en route to the hotel.

As they strolled slowly back J.D. directed Shae’s attention to local points of interest. He followed her into the Marriott and across the lobby to the front desk. Shae retrieved her door card and the pair took the elevator to her floor. All the while, Shae prayed that this wouldn’t be the only time she had with him.

J.D. halted outside her door and put his hand on Shae’s shoulder. “It’s been awhile since I’ve had such a great time. I really enjoyed tonight.”

“So did I.” Shae smiled shyly.

His hand slid down her arm and he intertwined their fingers. “Would you like to go out again? Maybe we could see a different part of the city. Get you more comfortable with Chicago before you start your new job.”

She squeezed his hand, then smiled before answering, “That sounds wonderful.”

“How about tomorrow evening? Say around eight?” He took a step closer. Shae’s heart pounded as she felt the heat of his body. His subtle scent wafted under her nose, making her tingle all over with anticipation.

“All right,” Shae said after a moment of hesitation.

J.D. dropped her hand and leaned in, gently nibbled on her bottom lip. His lips were soft and encouraging as they touched Shae’s tentatively. A delighted shiver coursed through her at this slight caress. Wanting more, she moved closer, parting her lips to offer him entry. J.D. framed her face with his hands as his tongue darted inside.

A low moan escaped from her as his tongue met hers. At first the kiss was gentle and soft, exploring. It grew more passionate as she stroked his tongue with her own. His hands trailed along the column of her neck, over her shoulders and wrapped her in his embrace, pulling her against the hard planes of his heated body.

Slowly, they separated. He leaned down a second time and kissed her lips lightly, stroking her cheek tenderly with his fingertips.

Dazed, she gazed up at him.

“I’ll call you tomorrow,” he promised in a husky whisper.

“Okay. Good night.”

“Good night, Shae,” he said softly, softly kissing her lips a final time before releasing her and heading to the elevators.

Shae stepped inside the suite and shut the door, leaning against the wood surface. She’d never felt anything like this before in her life. Making this change in her life might turn out to be the best decision she’d ever made.

Chapter 5

Although Shae had the credentials and work experience to run a clinic, she felt nervous about starting her new job. First days were tricky. Information overload added additional stress to an already stressful day.

J.D. had been wonderful. He’d offered his services as her personal chauffeur until she bought a car. In return, they had shared an intimate breakfast at one of her hotel’s restaurants.

Now she sat in the passenger seat of J.D.’s Chrysler Crossfire as they pulled away from the hotel. As Shae watched him maneuver the car, she realized what a pleasant start to the day it had been to have him pilot their commute to the clinic.

The scenery swept by unnoticed as her thoughts turned to the day ahead. As she smoothed the imaginary wrinkles from the front of her mauve-colored suit, Shae took control of her fears and focused on the positive aspects to her new home and life.

A warm male hand wrapped around hers possessively. “Don’t worry,” J.D. said in a soft, encouraging tone. “You’ll do fine.” He added a reassuring squeeze with one hand while he navigated through the downtown Michigan Avenue morning traffic with the other. Within minutes they merged onto the freeway.

“I hope you’re right. I’m so nervous that I’m tempted to get on a plane and return to Malibu.” Trembling fingers pushed her hair from her face. “How am I supposed to direct a staff, make decisions on patient care and run the facility? That’s a lot of responsibility.”

He laughed, then stroked his chin with a finger. “Yes, it is. Let me think a minute. Didn’t you tell me that you were part of a Doctors Without Boundaries program in El Salvador and Africa?”

“Yes.”

“And if I remember correctly, you handled everything from mosquito bites to surgery. Correct?”

“Yes.”

“If you can handle those situations then I’m sure you have enough experience to run a small, inner-city clinic.” His fingers caressed the skin of her hand, sending her pulse into a gallop. “Here’s my suggestion. Take a mental step away from your uncertainties and let the day happen. I’m positive things will gel just the way you want them to.”

Taking J.D.’s advice, Shae shut her eyes, inhaled through her nose and exhaled out her mouth. After several minutes she felt calm and a sense of peace settle over her. “Thank you.” She smiled at her driver. J.D. soothed her. He instinctively understood her unease and knew the right thing to say to alleviate her fears.

“It’s part of the Daniels full-service treatment, provided exclusively to you. First days are always difficult. You wouldn’t be human if you didn’t feel the pressure.” He took his eyes off the road for a moment to gaze at her. Something special sizzled between them, causing her heart to flutter in her chest. “I know you can rise to the occasion. Make things work. Right?”

“Correct.”

“Good. That’s what I want to hear.”

“I’m nervous,” she admitted, then added, “I want to do the best job I can. What if I’m not ready? Or I don’t know enough to help my patients?”

He turned to her with a frown on his handsome features. “Where is all of this coming from? You know your job and it won’t take long for you to become familiar with the people in the area.”

“I know,” Shae admitted, patting his arm. “I’ve wanted to do this for so long that it doesn’t seem right that everything is falling into place without some major drama. Ignore me, I’ll be fine.”

J.D. gave her an “Are you sure?” glance.

“Honest. Thanks for tolerating me through this little panic attack.”

“No problem.” His voice dropped an octave. “I want to help in any way that you’ll let me.”

Warmed by his gentle but moving declaration, Shae reached over and stroked his cheek. “Thank you. You are wonderful.”

“And don’t you forget it.”

“Yes, sir.” Shae saluted him.

They both laughed.

Shae concentrated on the scenery and recognized several landmarks. As they moved deeper into the city there was a distinct shift in the condition of the buildings and houses. Most of the properties were well maintained, some older, some not. Some needed repair. Within minutes, J.D. pulled in front of a white three-story brick building. “Urban Health Center” was printed above the front door in black letters.

“Your door-to-door limo service has delivered you safely to your destination,” he declared, pushing the transmission gear into Park, but letting the engine run.

She glanced at the round clock on the dashboard. “And in good time, too. I have time to grab an extra cup of coffee.”

“Before I forget, my mother wants you to come to Sunday dinner.”

Butterflies danced in her stomach. “Dinner?” she echoed softly. His mother knew about her?

“Yeah. We do this family dinner thing most Sundays. My brothers and sisters and their families always show up.”

Shae shifted in her bucket seat to face him. “J.D., we’ve only known each other a few days. How does your mother know about me?”

J.D. blushed a delicate shade of red and intently studied the dashboard as his hands tightened around the steering wheel. “I happened to mention you a couple of times while we were talking this week.”

“Did you now?” she asked with a significant lifting of her brows.

He shrugged. “I talk about you because I like you. You are becoming an important part of my life.”

Her heart danced with excitement. What could she say to that? Tell him the truth. “You’re important to me, too.”

Embarrassed, J.D. gazed out the window. “I talked to my mom last night because she was checking to see how my trip worked out. Mom wanted to know if I was coming to dinner. When I hesitated she shifted from mom to sleuth mode and kept digging until I confessed that I was seeing you and didn’t want to leave you alone on the weekend. That’s all it took. Mom insisted that you join us.”

“I don’t know.” Shae nervously twisted a lock of hair around her finger. Was she ready to be introduced to the Daniels family? “We just met. Don’t you think it’s a bit early in our relationship for me to meet your family?”

J.D. grinned broadly at her.

The effect dazzled her and she found it nearly impossible to concentrate. “What?”

“I like the sound of that word. Relationship.”

Relaxing, she grinned back at him and admitted softly, “Me, too.”

“Getting back to your question, Shae, my family is pretty laid back. It’s dinner. No strings attached. I’d like you to come.” His hand settled on top of hers and squeezed. “Please.”

Shae grinned, shaking her head at the look on J.D.’s face. How could she resist that puppy-dog expression and endearing words? She had misgivings about meeting his family at such an early stage in their relationship, but she refused to let her concerns weigh down the time she spent with J.D. “Okay. I’ll come.”

“Thank you. You will love them,” he declared. “Trust me.”

Trust him. Of course she did. J.D. didn’t know how much trust she’d placed in him. Worried for her safety and welfare of their only child, the Weitherspoons had cautioned Shae against letting people get to close to her. After years of watching every step, she had thrown caution to the wind and allowed J.D. into her life. It felt wonderful to enjoy this relationship and see it develop without her parents’ watchful eyes and possible interference.

He glanced at his watch. “Ready to go to work?”

“I think so.”

“Good luck,” he whispered, leaning across to softly kiss her lips. He pulled one of her curls and stretched the lock straight before letting go. It snapped back into its original spiral shape.

“Thank you.”

Caressing her cheek, J.D. added, “Go in there and save the world. I know you can do it.”

“Will do, sir.”

“You have my cell phone number, right?” he asked.

“Yes, it’s programmed into the memory,” Shae answered, touching the phone clipped to the waistband of her mauve skirt. “And you have mine.”

J.D. watched a young man with his head wrapped in a do-rag and baggy wide-legged denims hung across his butt saunter past the clinic. “Watch yourself. I’ll be here at five to pick you up.”

“Are you sure you can do this? You have your clients to consider, and I don’t want to interfere with your business. If you have things that you need to do, I can always get a cab home and rent a car tomorrow.”

“Yes, you can. But I don’t want you to. Don’t worry about me, Shae. I make my own hours and, to be perfectly honest, I love seeing so much of you.” He grinned. “Besides, we’ll go car shopping real soon. I’m sure you’ll have transportation in no time.”

“If anything changes, call me.”

“Will do.” He brought her hand to his lips before dropping it. “I have one meeting this afternoon around three. Look for me out here.”

“Okay. I’ll look for you at five.” Shae leaned closer and kissed him. “Bye.”

Shae got out of the car and closed the door, moving up the sidewalk to the building. Before entering the building, she turned and waved. J.D. mimicked the gesture. She rang the doorbell and seconds later the custodian ushered her inside.

Halting in the lobby, Shae noted the changes to the room. Much had been accomplished since her last visit. The clean scent of freshly painted walls greeted her.A welcoming shade of violet covered the previous pink coating; plum carpeting hid the scarred wood floors and a brand new nursing station waited for the staff to take charge.

She strolled down the main hallway to the medical director’s office. The door stood open and her boss sat at his desk with a headset pinned to his ears. The name plate on his desk read Kenyatta L. Reid, M.D.

“Good morning,” Shae said from the entrance.

Dr. Reid glanced her way. “Good morning to you.” He rose and made a quick move around his desk with an outstretched hand. As he drew closer, she was surprised by how quickly such a large man moved. Close to 6’4” and weighing in at nearly 280 pounds, Dr. Reid looked as if he should be on the football field instead of in an examining room. That impression wasn’t far off. During their interview, Dr. Reid had revealed that he’d completed his undergraduate degree on a football scholarship.

“Want some coffee?” he offered, as he continued to hold her hand.

“Sounds good.” She gave a sharp tug on her hand and he released her.

Dressed in a crisp white lab coat with K. Reid, M.D. in bold, black letters and blue-green scrubs, the medical director led her to his desk before grabbing a mug from a makeshift coffee station near the back of his office. “Black. One sugar, no cream. Correct?”

Surprised, she turned and watched him pour the rich brew into the mug. “Wow! That’s some memory you have.”

“It’s not hard when you’re the only staff I’ve hired.”

She chuckled. “I see your point.”

Dr. Reid returned to the desk and offered Shae the mug.

“Thanks.” She placed her mug on the edge of the desk, then opened her briefcase and removed her portfolio and pen.

He rubbed his earlobe as he spoke. A diamond stud adorned his right ear. “Since I brought up the topic of staffing, I need to tell you that that is our top priority.”

“Is everything else in place? The exam rooms, offices, nursing station? Have we ordered medications?”

“Most of them. It’s time to get our staff in place. Here are some of the things you’ll need to get started. This is your annual operating budget, keys for the building and your office.” He laid each item on the desk as he identified them. “The security code to the front and back doors and your gate card for the parking lot.”

“Thanks.” She slipped the keys inside her jacket pocket and placed the code and gate card in her briefcase.

“Where did you park?” He leaned back in his chair to glance out the window. “Do you want to move your car?”

She shrugged. “No. I got a ride.”

“Taxis can get pretty expensive.” He removed a pencil from behind his left ear. “I hope you can find less expensive transportation.”

“Not a taxi. A ride,” she corrected. “And I do plan to buy a car very soon. Probably tonight or tomorrow.”

“Are you going alone?”

“No. I have a friend.”

“Friend?” His eyebrows shot towards his hairline. “I thought you didn’t know anyone here.”

“I didn’t. But I do now.”

He muttered something too low for her to hear clearly.

“What was that?” she asked.

The medical director shook his head, answering, “Nothing.”

“Dr. Reid, how much time do we have before we open?”

“Grand opening will be the first of next month.” He turned the desk calendar in her direction and pointed at the first Monday in May. “That gives you exactly three and a half weeks to hire six nurses, two LPNs, two nursing assistants and the front office people, including billers.”

Surprised, her eyes widened. “Unless you’ve already placed ads in the newspapers, that’s going to be difficult to do.”

Dr. Reid pulled a white plastic mail bin from under his desk. “Done. You’ll have to go through them, but this is a start.”

“It looks like I have work to do.” Standing, Shae placed her pad and pen in her briefcase and shut it. “It’s time for me to get started. Where’s my office?”

Grinning at her, he lifted the case in one hand, tucked it under his arm like a football and waved her towards the door with the other. “Let me show you. You’re down the hall from me. If you need anything, holler.”

“Will do,” Shae responded, following him out the office.

Chapter 6

Destiny’s Child blasted through the Bose sound system. J.D. bopped to the lyrics while he poured orange juice into his black coffee mug emblazoned with “Number One Agent” in gold. Barefooted, he made his way through his loft to the living area and sank onto the steel-gray leather sofa. Sighing heavily, J.D. propped his feet on the edge of the rosewood coffee table and sipped his o.j.

Anger rose in J.D. as he twisted the face of his wristwatch to check the time. His appointment with Amir had been scheduled for three p.m. It was half-past four, and the kid still hadn’t put in an appearance, nor had he taken the time to call. J.D. had more important things to do besides wait for Amir Jonson to show up. Man, I’m tired of this kid, J.D. thought wearily. Why did he continue to take Amir’s crap? J.D. wished fervently that Amir acted like a different kid with a better attitude.

J.D. knew the answer to his question: the plain and simple truth was Amir had talent and he had a good shot at transitioning to the NBA, if—and it was a big if—Amir got his act together and started taking his career more seriously, and if J.D. could steer the right people Amir’s way. Talent represented only a part of the package. Nowadays, recruits needed to be team players. Plus, the NBA wanted mature and responsible players that didn’t cause a lot of problems or require much maintenance.

Swallowing the last drops of liquid, the agent slowly returned to the kitchen. At the sink, J.D. rinsed the mug, placed it in the black dishwasher, and glanced out the window, watching the light downtown traffic.

While still a senior in high school, Amir Jonson had come to the sports agent’s attention. Phil, J.D’s buddy, had suggested they check out the team that his nephew played with. J.D. had agreed for two reasons: first—he never found time to hang out with his buddies the way he used to, and second—the opportunity to check out high school players intrigued him. Most of his clients were in college and transitioning to pro ball.

Loud, rowdy and fun described the game. One high school senior had dominated the court. With the skill of a seasoned pro, Amir had seemed to float across the court, scoring one basket after another. Once the game ended, J.D. had sought out the young man to talk to and to listen to his aspirations. Days later, J.D. met Amir’s mother and had pitched a plan for Amir’s future. Mother and son grinned happily, showing every tooth in their heads, pleased to receive J.D.’s support and help.

Although J.D. liked the kid, Amir was a royal pain in the ass. Before allowing him to sign the contract, J.D. had sat Amir and his mother down and explained the important aspects of the plan he intended to set in motion. Ms. Jonson had agreed. Amir had not. His mother had won. Amir had reluctantly agreed to the plan.

Problems started with Amir when he began to take the advice of his high school buddies over J.D.’s. His friends kept telling Amir that he should be able to step straight from the high school basketball court to the pros. Like most children, Amir refused to acknowledge how the system worked. Instead he wanted everything now and believed he could skip the hard work that led to a successful career.

As they began to work together, J.D. realized that although Amir possessed an abundance of talent, he lacked discipline. Most kids played college ball after graduation. They accepted college scholarships while waiting for the call of the NBA draft. Amir had balked at the idea of college. The young man fought J.D. on every issue. Amir believed that he didn’t need to do the college thing because his future rested with the pros.

J.D. leaned into the soft leather as he rubbed his fingers across his forehead, trying to erase a headache. The kid hadn’t showed his face and it was getting close to the time for J.D. to pick up Shae. Heading for his bedroom, he grabbed a pair of sneakers and white tube socks. Moving purposefully through the condominium, J.D. returned to the sofa, shoved his feet inside the socks and reached for a shoe.

Shae. He halted with a shoe in his hand, seeing her smiling face in his mind. She was a wonderful, exciting addition to his life.

J.D.’s pleasant reverie was rudely interrupted by the doorbell chimes. He dropped the shoe and padded across the wood floor to the intercom and video monitor located near the front door. Amir stood on his doorstep. “Damn!” J.D. shook his head, instantly deciding to make this the quickest meeting on record. He buzzed the young man into the building, opened the door and waited in the entrance for his guest to climb the two flights of stairs.

“Hey,” Amir grunted. The lanky 6’5” basketball player’s ebony face wore a permanent snarl. A red dorag controlled his thick, shoulder-length braids. Baggy, wide-leg denims covered a pair of red silk drawers that hung outside his denims. His long, skinny legs poked out from white ankle socks trimmed in blue. His size fifteen feet looked like boats in his Michael Jordan sneakers.

Arms folded, J.D. demanded, “Where have you been?”

Amir strolled into the tiny hallway, a cell phone glued to his ear in one hand, while using the other hand to hold up his pants. “Got held up with some stuff.”

“We had a three o’clock appointment.”

The young man shrugged, then added belligently, “Yeah and? I got held up. I’m here now, so let’s get to it.”

J.D.’s hands clinched into fists at his side. “Look. You have got to do better. How can I pitch you to anyone when I can’t depend on you to be on time and make the best impression?”

“If it’s important, I’ll be there. You never have anything good to tell me, so why should I rush? All we’re going to do is talk about what you plan to do. You still haven’t done what I want you to do.”

J.D. shut the door and started down the narrow passageway. “Let’s go into the living room.”

Amir followed without comment. When they entered the living area, the young man flopped down on the sofa and glared spitefully at J.D.

“Can I get you anything?”

“Beer.”

“Nope.” J.D. answered, snagging the chair near the sofa. He removed a sheet of paper from the file sitting on the coffee table. “I told you that you can’t go pro yet. We have a lot of work to do before that happens.”

“Talk. Talk. Talk.” Amir flipped J.D. off with a wave of his hand. “That’s all you give me. My boys think you’re just trying to hold me back. You don’t want me to go pro.”

J.D. seethed angrily underneath, but maintained an outwardly composed demeanor. “Why wouldn’t I? That puts more money in my pocket. Amir, you have talent and, if you can grow and learn, you’ll have a fabulous professional career and the life that you crave. But not yet. There’s still a lot of work ahead of you.”

Amir scoffed and turned his attention to his cell phone.

“What happened to your mother?”

The young man’s face scrunched into a snarling mask. “I don’t know. What happened to her?”

“Why isn’t she here with you?”

“I imagine she’s where she lives,” he quipped, crossing one bony leg over the opposite knee.

“I specifically asked to see both of you.”

The young man glowered at the older man. “I’m grown. I don’t need her up in my business.”

J.D. gritted his teeth to keep from saying something that would set them both off. Amir’s ’tude was getting old really fast. J.D. understood how important it was for Amir to handle himself like a tough guy in front of his friends, but his friends weren’t here.

“That’s not going to happen. You’re only nineteen and there are concerns about your grades.” He passed a copy of Amir’s fall report card to the young man. “As you can see, and probably already know, you’re on academic probation. Unless you bring up your grades and go to summer school to make up the classes you failed, you’ll lose your free ride. If that happens, your chances for the NBA fly away with it.”

Amir rolled his eyes and propped his feet on the edge of the coffee table. “Come on, man. This is all playtime. It don’t matter what grades I get as long as I keep playing ball.”

“That’s where you’re wrong. It all matters.” J.D. roughly shoved Amir’s feet off the table. “Young man,” he started. “This isn’t a game. If you want that career, get your crap together.”

Sulking, Amir crossed his arms and studied the hardwood floor.

“Young man, look at me,” J.D. voice rang out with authority.

Instantly, Amir focused on him. A flash of dislike flickered from his round owl’s eyes.

“I’m going to drop you as a client if you don’t get on track.” This wasn’t true. He’d understood that Amir was still in his teens and had come from a tough home life. His mother had worked hard to provide for him and to raise her son without a father’s influence.

J.D. made allowances for Amir because J.D. grew up with the benefits of strong, supportive parents and he understood how his upbringing shaped his life. But discipline remained a key factor to Amir’s path to becoming a pro.

J.D. laced his fingers together. He gave the younger man time to absorb what he’d said. The agent rose from his chair, moved around the coffee table, and sank onto the soft leather of the sofa next to Amir. “There’s still time to finish out this year in the positive column. Just don’t screw up. If you need help, I can get you a tutor or help you myself. But those grades must improve. Period. And as soon as possible. I suggest you go make appointments with your professors, talk with them about extra credit if you need to and find out if there’s anything you can do to improve your grades. Do what needs to be done.”

Rolling the edge of the jersey between his fingers, Amir thrust out his bottom lip and pouted. “College is supposed to be fun.”

J.D. tapped a finger against his lips. “Not really. College involves learning and getting an education. If you plan to make it in pro ball, you need to understand how things work.”

“What you’re saying is that I can’t have any fun.”

“Not at all. Get your school work done first, then hang out with your friends. Until you get your grades on track, stop the carousing with your buddies and leave the ladies alone. Give it a rest until your grades are in order.” J.D. waved a hand back and forth between them. “Have I made myself clear?”

Silence followed his question.

“Are we on the same page on this issue?” J.D. asked a second time.

Tension filtered into every corner of the room.

“I need an answer before you go.”

Amir’s lips pursed. “Yeah.”

J.D. slapped his hand against the table. It sounded like an exploding bomb in the quiet of the room. He reached under the table and slipped his feet into his Air Force One sneakers. “Good.” He rose and plucked his keys from the end table. “I’ve got to be going. Let me walk you out.”

Chapter 7

The constant bouncing of a ball drew Shae’s attention from the stack of resumes to the basketball court next door. She stretched and glanced out the window, watching the rowdy bunch.

Her office had been painted in a soothing lilac and the floor covered with a rich lavender carpet. A used metal desk with a Formica surface sat in the center of the room. A gray cloth swivel chair and a black steel four-drawer file cabinet occupied much of the free space. The lack of space didn’t matter because Shae suspected that most of her time would be spent in the exam rooms rather than in her office.

Glancing at the white wall clock, she noted the time. It was almost five and J.D. would be pulling up to the building any minute. Shae dropped the pile of typed pages, her yearly budget information and supply order into her briefcase before snapping it closed. Looking forward to seeing J.D., her heart rate accelerated. She retrieved her suit jacket from the back of her chair, slipped her arms into the sleeves and prepared to leave the office for the day. She shut and locked her office door and headed for the front of the building. On her way out, Shae halted at the entrance to the medical director’s office. “Good night, Dr. Reid.”

With a pencil stuck behind his left ear, the doctor was deeply focused on the information on his computer screen. She cleared her throat. He glanced her way with a distracted expression on his face, blinking several times before focusing on her. “Good night. See you tomorrow.”

“Yes, you will.” She turned toward the lobby.

“By the way,” he said. “My name is Kenyatta. Please use it.”

“And my name is Shae.”

“Fair enough.” Smiling back at her, he nodded. “I meant to come down to your office and see how things were going. I got caught up in work and everything flew out of my head. How did today go for you? Did you find all the things that you needed?”

“I made a great start today. Set up interviews for tomorrow and Friday.” Shae placed her briefcase on the floor near her leg. “I’m going to decide on hiring over the weekend and then make offers Monday. That will give the applicants time to give their current employers two-week notices.”

“Sounds good. By the way, where are you staying?” He removed the pencil from behind his ear and reached for a sheet of scratch paper.

“Downtown Marriott.”

“Nice. You’re not planning to stay there indefinitely, are you?”

Leaning against the doorframe, she answered, “No. After we get the staffing issues resolved, I’m going to look for a permanent address. Why? Did you have any suggestions? Do you know of a place?”

“Sorry, no.” Kenyatta’s face lit up as an idea formulated in his mind. He lifted a finger. “But,” he paused for emphasis before continuing, “there are some great real estate agents in this area that will do the leg work for you. While you’re handling our business, they’ll be handling yours.”

“Sounds good. Do you have a name?” Shae asked.

“Not with me. My sister used one when she sold her house. I’ll talk to her this evening and get back to you tomorrow.”

“Fair enough.”

“How are you getting home?” Kenyatta asked.

“My friend is picking me up.” She glanced at her watch, then reached for her briefcase. “He’s probably waiting. I better get going. See you Thursday morning.”

“Good night.”

There was an extra spring in her step as she hurried down the hall and out the front door. She halted outside the building. Instead of J.D.’s car idling at the curb, she found an empty space.

For a moment, Shae’s confusion and disappointment overwhelmed her. Those feelings transported her back to her childhood and the times when her father promised to pick her up from school and then got so wrapped up in his work the he forgot all about her.

Shae shook her head, beating down the anxieties surging through her. Her feelings spiked before dropping back to a manageable level. J.D. should be here, she thought, glancing at the LCD screen on the cell phone. A small groan escaped from her lips. No messages. He was running a little late or traffic problems caused his delay. If he didn’t show up in fifteen minutes, she’d go back into the building and order a taxi.

It’s rush hour and he probably got caught in traffic, she thought nervously. No point in returning to the building. I’ll wait here for him.

Deciding on a plan eased her anxiety and she felt more confident about waiting for J.D. Shae intended to embrace this opportunity and observe the community near the clinic. She shrugged and strolled to a wooden bench near a bus stop.

It was a typical inner-city neighborhood with lots of kids and music, and teenagers strolling up and down the streets. A variety of homes graced the area. Colonial, bungalows and two-family flats all shared space on the same block. Many of the structures were in need of repair, some major and some minor.

Placing her briefcase on the bench beside her, Shae decided to use her time wisely and tackle some of the work that needed her attention. If she must wait, she might as well make the best use of her time. Engrossed in resumes, she glanced up from her reading to find two children watching her. Dressed in a gray, red and black–striped long-sleeve T-shirt, denims and high-top sneakers, a small boy no older than five sat on the U-shaped handlebar of a bike. The older of the two children balanced the bike between his denim-clad legs. Their small round faces revealed the same facial structure and brown eyes. They had to be related.

“What you doin’?” the little one asked from his perch on the handlebars.

Smiling, she answered, “Reading. What are you doing?”

“Watchin’ you,” the older boy responded.

Giggling, Shae tossed the papers back into her briefcase and gave the boys her full attention. “Fair enough. Do you live around here?”

Twin heads bobbed up and down. The older boy pointed at a house down the block. “Yeah. We live down there. Near the corner.”

“Where do you live?” the little one asked.

“Downtown, for now,” Shae answered.

The younger boy slipped from the handlebars and moved closer. “What’s your name?”

“Shae.”

Pointing a finger at his chest, he volunteered, “I’m Desmond.”

“Well, hello, Desmond.” Shae dipped her head in silent acknowledgement, directing her attention to the other child. “And you are?”

“Sterling. Sterling Walls.”

Shae rose from the bench and extended her hand. The young man hesitated for a moment, blushing profusely before slipping his small hand in hers.

Desmond walked over to her and touched her briefcase. “What are you readin’?”

“Work stuff. Do you like to read?”

“I’m too young to read,” Desmond answered.

Turning to the older boy, Shae asked, “How about you, Sterling? Do you like to read?”

“Little bit. But I like video games and TV better.”

Shae noticed Desmond kept wiping his runny nose with the sleeve of his striped T-shirt. The poor little thing looked miserable. Germs, Shae thought. Maybe she could help, mentally shifting through the items in her briefcase. She reached inside her briefcase, pulled out a personal size packet of tissue and crooked a finger, beckoning him closer. The younger kid cautiously moved to the bench and she took his small chocolate round face gently between her fingers and wiped his nose with a tissue. “There. Much better. Do you have a cold?” Shae tossed the used tissue in the wired trash basket near the bench.

He nodded.

“Keep these.” She offered the tissues.

Cautiously, Desmond reached out his hand and took the white packet. His little forehead crinkled into a frown as he took her gift. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Let me give you something to help.” She rummaged through her briefcase and gave the boy a yellow vitamin C drop. Most children thought they were eating candy when in fact they were getting the daily requirement of vitamin C. “This will help you get rid of your cold quicker.”

The older boy grabbed Desmond’s shoulder and jerked him away. “Don’t,” he hissed softly. “What did Momma tell us? Don’t take candy from strangers.”

“She’s nice. I like her. And I want it,” Desmond whined.

“Momma will get us,” the older kid cautioned.

Their mother had given them sound advice and Shae didn’t want to contradict a parent’s training and wishes. She cleared her throat and pointed at the building behind them. Both boys turned toward the clinic. “You don’t have to be afraid of me. I work right here.”

“Are you a doctor?” Sterling asked.

“No. I’m a nurse. If you get sick I can help you.”

From the distance she heard their names being called. “It sounds like somebody is looking for you guys. You better get on home and see what it’s about.” Shae put the vitamin C drops in Sterling’s hand. “Before you go, take these with you. Let your mother decide if you can have them.”

“Come on, Desmond.” Sterling shoved the drops in his pocket, then lifted the bike from the ground.

The little one hurried to the front of the bike and Sterling lifted him onto the handlebars. They sped down the street as J.D.’s black Crossfire zipped into the empty parking space in front of the clinic.

He climbed out of the car and hurried to the wood bench, watching the kids make their way down the street. “You okay?”

“Yeah.” She glanced at the pair as they crossed the street. “I made a couple of new friends.”

“Shae, I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“Is everything okay?” she asked, focusing on him. He looked as attractive as ever and she felt really happy to see him.

“The client I was expecting at three showed up at four-thirty with a lame excuse. Forgive me, please?”

“Sure. Things happen. I understand that.” She smiled at J.D., patting his arm. “Don’t worry about it. It gave me an opportunity to meet a couple of the kids from the neighborhood.”

“I’m glad. Although I feel really bad about being late.” The phone hooked to his belt began to vibrate. J.D. grimaced, glancing at the screen. “I’ve got to take this. Give me a minute.” He unhooked the phone and answered the call. Seconds later he ended the call and returned the phone to his belt. “Sorry.”

“No problem. Don’t stress over it.” Shae shut her briefcase and rose from the bench.

“Ready?” he asked, removing her leather briefcase from her hand.

“Yes.”

“How about dinner?” J.D. asked, cupping her elbow as he guided her to the car and opened the passenger door.

“Dinner?” Shae didn’t expect him to feed her every day, although she loved spending as much time with him as possible. “I don’t expect you to entertain me.”

“I know. But, I feel bad about being late. Plus, it’s your first day on the job. I want to hear all about it.”

Chapter 8

J.D. and Shae decided to go directly to dinner. He’d said he knew the perfect place for them to have a good meal and privacy to talk. And he was right.

Riva’s Restaurant was located on Navy Pier. It featured a breathtaking view of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. As the hostess led them to their table, Shae got her first glimpse of the impressive 40-foot exhibition kitchen as the chef and crew worked diligently to prepare the Italian and seafood cuisine for their patrons.

“I love this place,” J.D. admitted as he set his menu aside. “Can I help you order?”

“Sure. Everything looks so good, your recommendation would be helpful.”

“No problem. I always have the Lobster Fra Diavolo,” J.D. said, pointing to the item on the menu. “It’s the best. It’s a spicy dish with linguini topped with lobster.”

Shae moaned. “That sounds heavenly.”

“It is,” J.D. assured her. “You won’t go home hungry.”

“I’m sold.”

After the waitress took their order, J.D. turned his attention back to Shae.

“So tell me about your day. Was it everything you expected?”

Grinning, she answered, “It was good. I met Desmond and Sterling. My boss Kenyatta dumped on me. But I sort of expected that.”

“Dumped on you how?”

“He had this large bin of resumes for me to go through. All the staff has to be hired by the end of next week.”

He whistled.

“Yeah. Then I have to train everyone.”

“You’re going to be busy. When are you going to open?”

“The first Monday in May.”

“Less than a month to get everything done.” J.D. shook his head. “You’re going to be very busy.”

Laughing, Shae nodded. “Yes, I am. But I asked for it, right?”

“That you did.”

“So how about you, J.D.? What kept you?”

J.D. scoffed. “Amir Jonson, the client from hell.”

Frowning, Shae said, “Mmm. That sounds scary. Why is he the client from hell?”

“Because Amir stirs up more crap then all my clients put together.” J.D. swallowed a sip of wine. “The young man has talent, but his friends know more than I do.”

“That can be difficult.”

“Yes, it can. I like Amir a lot. But he’s beginning to get on my nerves,” J.D. said.

“So what’s his story?”

“No father in the home. Mother trying to be both parents and failing at both. He’s got so much talent. I want him to have everything he’s dreamed of. But he’s so obstinate. Unless he changes his attitude we’re not going to be able to work together much longer.”

“Why are you putting up with him? I’m sure there are a lot of kids who’d like to have his opportunity,” Shae pointed out.

“I grew up in a home with two parents. They loved us and were always available. They gave us what we needed, not what we wanted. There’s a part of me that believes that Amir would be a different guy if he’d had the benefit of a father. Amir needed a male figure to care about him, give him guidance and spend time with him.”

“J.D., that’s not always true,” Shae whispered softly, thinking back to her life in her parents’ home. Having two parents in the home doesn’t always mean that the child will turn out perfect. She remembered all the disappointments and pain that her father caused by his broken promises. “My pop lived with us, but he wasn’t truly in the home. There’s got to be more.”

“I’m sorry, sweetheart.” J.D. reached across the table and took her hand, holding it between both of his. “You’re right. What I’m trying to say is that people have disappointed Amir so much in life that he’s unwilling to trust anyone. I want to break through that and help him.”

“I understand the need to help, J.D. I just don’t want you to be disappointed,” she squeezed his hand.

“It’ll be okay. I’m going to do everything I can to help him,” he promised. “Thank you.”

She smiled at him, feeling warm and happy at the closeness developing between them. Shae wanted to comfort him. J.D. seemed so concerned and sincere about the well-being of his clients. Somehow Amir had touched a chord in J.D.’s heart and he wanted to help the young man reach his dreams. “In the car you said you had something you wanted to talk to me about?”

“Yes. There’s something I want to talk—” His cell phone rang and J.D. sighed, glancing at the LCD. “Excuse me,” he turned away as he answered the call. “Hello? Yeah. Call me in the office tomorrow,” he stated. “This is a bad time.”

Shae blocked out the rest of his conversation, instead concentrating on trying to figure out what J.D. wanted to say to her. She hoped he didn’t plan to stop seeing her. She really liked him and didn’t want to lose his friendship or the budding romance they were establishing.

He seemed nervous. His hand constantly played with the silverware and he folded and refolded the napkin several times.

“Sorry about that,” J.D. said, shoving the phone into his pocket. “Normally, I don’t get a lot of calls after hours. Lately, it’s been really busy.”

“What do you want to say?” she asked, redirecting his thoughts back to their previous discussion.

“I know that we haven’t known each other very long. And that you’re used to a very different kind of life.” He swallowed loudly, picking up her hand and linking their fingers. “You’re new to town and there is a lot that you have to see and do before you get completely settled in, but I want to be part of your life. I want us to see each other and for you to know that I’ll be available when you need me.

“I don’t know how to say this. I’m embarrassed. These feelings are new to me.” J.D. held her gaze with his own. “I like you. Hopefully we’ve got time to get to know each other better. But I want to let you know how I feel.”

Shae blew out a nervous breath of air. “J.D., I was worried that you wanted to end our relationship. To put some space and time between us. I like you, too, and I want to get to know you better.”

Separating after a series of good-night kisses that had her weak in the knees and her head swimming, Shae said good night and closed the door after J.D. left. She danced through the suite on her way to her bedroom. Nothing could bring her down after the evening she enjoyed with J.D. She couldn’t wait for their next date. Being with him just seemed so right. They had made plans to go car shopping tomorrow evening after work.

Shae sat on the bed and removed her diamond earrings, while she reached for the ringing telephone. “Hello.”

“How’s my princess?”

“Pop!”

“The one and only. Hi, sweetie.”

“Hi, Pop. It’s almost been a week, I was wondering when you would get around to me,” she muttered.

“Princess, you know you’re my number one girl. I’m sorry things got out of hand for a bit.”

“Mmm. That’s nothing new.” She shook her head, putting her misgivings away. It was good to hear from her father and she craved news about her family. “So how are you? Or rather how is the business?”

“Everything is good. How was your first day of work?”

“How did you know today was my first day?”

“Just because I haven’t talked with you doesn’t mean I don’t know what’s going on,” he reminded.

“So it seems.” She twisted the telephone cord around her fingers.

“So how did it go?”

“Good. I think I’m going to be happy here. There’s a lot of work ahead, but that’s not a bad thing. I like to work.” She chuckled. “I think I received that trait honestly.”

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