A kiss, a fling...a wedding ring?

Dr. Helena Tate still believes in love, despite her past heartbreak, and that one day she’ll have a baby of her own. Her gorgeous but brooding colleague Dr. Elijah Davenport, however, is not the man to pin her hopes on. He’s no longer interested in long-term relationships.

But being maid of honor and best man at a wedding in snow-covered Central Park heightens their attraction. Soon their Christmas fling becomes so much more! Can Helena tame Manhattan Mercy’s playboy—so they both get the love they deserve?

Christmas in Manhattan

All the drama of the ER, all the magic of Christmas!

A festive welcome to Manhattan Mercy ER, a stone’s throw from Central Park in the heart of New York City. Its reputation for top-notch healthcare is eclipsed only by the reputation of the illustrious, wealthy Davenport family and the other dedicated staff who work there!

With snow about to blanket New York over Christmas, ER Chief Charles Davenport makes sure his team is ready for the drama and the challenge...but when it comes to love, a storm is brewing such as they’ve never seen before!

Available now:

Sleigh Ride with the Single Dad by Alison Roberts

A Firefighter in Her Stocking by Janice Lynn

The Spanish Duke’s Holiday Proposal by Robin Gianna

The Rescue Doc’s Christmas Miracle by Amalie Berlin

Christmas with the Best Man by Susan Carlisle

Dr Elijah Davenport doesn’t believe in love and marriage, and Dr Helena Tate knows he’s not the one for her, but will passion change their minds?

Navy Doc on Her Christmas List by Amy Ruttan

The hospital is snowbound and Dr Ella Lockwood is trapped with ex-Navy doc Zachary Davenport. He’s the last man she wants to see—let alone kiss!

Dear Reader,

I always enjoy being included in a continuity. It’s entertaining and interesting to see characters come alive through different authors’ talents and watch them all interconnect. I count myself fortunate to have been a part of this project. Thanks to my fellow authors, who I’m proud to share this project with.

I particularly had fun writing the scene about the young boy who broke his leg in a sledding accident. I patterned it after my son-in-law, who had a similar occurrence with his own son. We still give him a hard time about stepping in front of a moving sled. The son has recovered well from his injury!

I should also thank Kim Turner and Marybeth Hunter. Their medical expertise made my story more realistic. I appreciate all their pointers.

Most of all I hope you enjoy Helena and Elijah’s story. They each have a dark past to overcome. Love isn’t an easy thing for them. I hope you enjoy the Davenport family and the people who touch their lives at Manhattan Mercy Hospital as much as I do.

I love to hear from my readers. You can reach me at SusanCarlisle.com.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Susan

CHRISTMAS WITH THE BEST MAN

Susan Carlisle

www.millsandboon.co.uk

SUSAN CARLISLE’s love affair with books began in the sixth grade, when she made a bad grade in mathematics. Not allowed to watch TV until she’d brought the grade up, Susan filled her time with books. She turned her love of reading into a passion for writing, and now has over ten Medical Romances published through Mills & Boon. She writes about hot, sexy docs and the strong women who captivate them. Visit SusanCarlisle.com.

Books by Susan Carlisle

Mills & Boon Medical Romance

Summer Brides

White Wedding for a Southern Belle

Midwives On-Call

His Best Friend’s Baby

Heart of Mississippi

The Maverick Who Ruled Her HeartThe Doctor Who Made Her Love Again

Married for the Boss’s BabyThe Doctor’s Sleigh Bell ProposalThe Surgeon’s CinderellaStolen Kisses with Her Boss

Visit the Author Profile page at millsandboon.co.uk for more titles.

Pam,

thanks for the years of friendship.

Praise for Susan Carlisle

“Gripping, stirring, and emotionally touching... A perfect medical read!”

—Goodreads on His Best Friend’s Baby

“This emotional love story kept me riveted. A truly satisfying, emotional read. Susan Carlisle’s work is like that. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.”

—Goodreads on NYC Angels: The Wallflower’s Secret

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Praise

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

Extract

Copyright

CHAPTER ONE

DR. HELENA TATE knew what a madhouse the ER could be during and after a major nor’easter but to experience it first hand was always a draining experience. Not only was snow piled everywhere, the wind was howling and the temperature teeth-clatteringly cold.

Injured people filled the chairs and any extra space in Manhattan Mercy’s emergency department in New York City. Even though the department might be the one of the most modern and efficient ERs in the world, it had still been all hands on deck for the last couple of days. Inside it was at least warm and cheerful. Being a week before Christmas, the nurses had banded together to decorate the department. Garlands hung around the unit desk, wreaths adorned doors, and there was even a Christmas tree in the corner of the waiting room.

Despite the festive time of the year the sick and injured just kept coming. Thankfully the flow had started to ease. She must be out of here in an hour if she had any hope of making Grace and Charles’s wedding on time. A must, since she was the maid of honor.

She and Grace had been friends and roommates during medical school and had stayed in touch. When Grace had mentioned needing a change from her overseas work, Helena had told Grace about a position becoming available in the ER and had offered her a place to stay. Grace had soon learned Charles Davenport would be her boss and had talked of cancelling the interview. Helena had encouraged her to come on anyway, having no idea there had been something between Grace and Charles during their medical school years.

Helena smiled then sighed. Now they were getting married. She was thrilled for them.

Finishing with her latest patient, Helena looked at her watch to check how much time she had to shower and change. The locker room wasn’t the perfect place to dress for a formal event but unusual circumstances called for flexibility. If anything, she’d learned long ago as an unwed pregnant teen to adjust to what life threw at her and move on.

The pain of finding out that her boyfriend had wanted nothing more to do with her, and especially the baby, had been horrible. More devastating had been the loss of the child. Seventeen was too young to become a mother, but the guilt she carried over not wanting the baby was what had stayed with her all these years.

She had survived with the love and support of her family. That’s what mattered now. The part of her personality that made her think positively had made being an ER doctor a good fit professionally for her. Days like the last few only proved it. How she was holding her love close. She wanted a man who wanted her forever. Some might think she was foolish to believe in happily ever after but she was still going to hold out for it. Grace and Charles were proving it could happen and Helena had to believe Prince Charming was somewhere out there for her as well.

Drawing back Trauma Four’s curtain, she stepped out of the bay and was sideswiped by a blur of white. “Ho.”

Dr. Elijah Davenport, Charles’s twin, glanced over his shoulder. “Hey Helena, can you give me a hand? A kid just came in with a broken leg and the father’s having trouble breathing.”

She hurried to keep up with him. “I saw Jim Leonard come in a few minutes ago. Isn’t he the doctor relieving you this evening? Shouldn’t you be thinking about getting ready for the wedding? After all, you’re the best man.”

“Yeah, but there’re also patients to see. When Charles left me in charge I promised not to let the place fall apart.”

Like Elijah would ever do that. He might be the quintessential playboy doctor but Helena had never doubted he was a dedicated physician. Truth be known, she thought him the best doctor in the department. But no way would she tell him that. His head was already big enough where women were concerned. It would only add to his already over-the-top ego.

Still, he had earned it. Elijah was beyond good looking. From his dark brown hair, charmingly out of place most of the time, to his tall, buff beachboy physique and the “Davenport blues” that sparkled when he laughed, Helena easily understood why women were agog over him. She might be as well but she wasn’t interested in anyone who worked their way through the nurses. Or in the heartache he would cause if she lost her heart to him. She wouldn’t accept anything but true love.

Helena’s attention went to Elijah, who had paused at the door to an exam room. “I’ll take the kid and you see the father.”

“Okay.”

She covered it well but no matter how much time had passed since she’d lost her baby the young patients still got to her on occasion. Sometimes a look or a laugh from a child triggered something in her that sent her emotions spinning out of control. During those moments, the pain was so harsh her chest felt like it might explode. The questions came flooding in. What would she have looked like? Would her child be acting the same as this one? The list and the pain went on. Thank goodness it didn’t happen often. But when it did...

“Done.” Elijah walked into the room.

A boy of about eight lay on the exam table with his face contorted in pain, while a tight-lipped father holding his side paced beside him.

“Mr....” Elijah looked at the clipboard he held “...Kakasides, I’m Dr. Davenport and this...” he nodded his head toward her “...is Dr. Tate. Why don’t you have a seat and tell us what happened.”

“I’d rather stand. It hurts worse when I sit. We were sledding in the park. Like an idiot, I tried to catch Louis when he came by me, going too fast. I fell on him. I think I’ve broken his leg. I hit the edge of the sled and messed up my side.”

Elijah glanced at her with an Are you believing this? look and then said to the father, “I’m going to check out your son while Dr. Tate does the same for you, okay?”

“Why don’t we step right over here?” Helena indicated an area off to the side.

The father glanced at his son, nodded. “Louis, I’m not going far. Hang in there, buddy.”

“Before I have a look at your side I need to listen to your heart and check a few more things.”

Again, the father dipped his head but his attention remained on his son.

With vitals completed, she said, “I know this is going to hurt but I need you to take a deep breath.”

The father winced but did as she asked.

“Now, Mr. Kakasides, I have to look under your shirt. Can you raise your arm?”

He hissed as he brought his arm up. Moving the shirt away, Helena could see a dark blue hematoma spreading out along his left side. The fall had definitely been hard.

“I’m going to need to step out and have a look at your chest X-ray,” she announced. “At the least you’ve broken a few ribs but I need to make sure there isn’t more. Unfortunately, there isn’t much we can do for broken ribs. They’ll have to heal on their own. You can take an anti-inflammatory for the pain.”

They rejoined Elijah as he was saying, “Okay, Louis, I need to have a look at your leg. I see the nurse has already done her worst with your pants.”

The material had been cut away so that it flapped back, exposing the leg. There was a large bump with redness and bluing around it.

“Yep, that looks like a broken leg. You and your father sure know how to have a good time in the snow.”

The boy gave Elijah a weak smile. “He fell on me but I know he didn’t mean to.”

Elijah patted him on the shoulder and winked. “I’m sure he didn’t. Maybe next time you can save him.”

The boy’s smile was brighter this time.

Good with kids, Elijah would make a great father. But he was also “good” with women, which would not make him a great husband. Fortunately, that wasn’t an issue. He’d never approached her and that suited her fine. Just watching him in action with the other female staff was enough for her to know he wasn’t what she was looking for in a man.

Elijah gave a reassuring smile to the boy’s father. “Radiology should have sent the pictures over by now. Let us review them. Dr. Tate and I’ll be back in soon.”

“Thanks.” The father looked at her and then at Elijah. “To both of you.”

On their way back to the unit desk Elijah was stopped by one of the nurses with a question. Helena didn’t wait on him. At the desk, she pulled up the X-ray for Mr. Kakasides. His eight, nine and tenth ribs were cracked. He would be in pain for a few weeks but would recover. She had the X-ray Elijah needed to review up on the screen by the time he arrived. He slid into the chair beside her.

“Thanks, Helena.”

“No problem. As maid of honor, I think it’s part of my duty to remind the best man he needs to get out of here as soon as possible.”

He studied the computer screen. “Well, Louis has a break to his femur.”

“His father is going to take it hard. He feels bad enough as it is.” Helena stood and checked her watch again. “I’m going to give him instructions about his ribs and get ready for a wedding. You need to do the same.”

Elijah rolled back his chair. “Yes, Doctor. I’m right behind you. First, I need to call Lloyd up in Ped Ortho and have him come in on the case. The boy will need surgery to put a rod in.”

“Then I’ll let the father know you’ll be in to speak to him. I’ll see you in the park.”

“Yeah, in the park.” There was a dry note in Elijah’s voice.

“Don’t sound so excited.” Helena grinned back at him as she circled the desk and headed down the hall. “Remember, weddings aren’t contagious.”

* * *

Elijah sure hope they weren’t. He wanted nothing to do with one.

Forty-five minutes later, he left the unit desk and headed down the hall toward the locker room. He had plenty of time to shower, put on his tux and make it to the park. At least the hospital was just across the street, but Central Park was a huge space. Just to walk to the Shakespeare Garden would take time.

Charles would never let him forget it if he was late to the ceremony. Grace would be upset and nothing Elijah said would make that okay in Charles’s eyes. The ER had been so busy Elijah had seen two more patients before he’d felt he could call his shift done. It had then taken another fifteen minutes to bring the doctor taking over for him up to speed on the patients being seen.

Elijah admitted to himself that he was dragging his feet about the whole wedding thing. It wasn’t that he didn’t want to be there for Charles or that he didn’t like Grace. He did. He wished them both the best. Was truly happy for them. It was just that the “wedded bliss” idea didn’t appeal to him much. He’d seen little of that in his parents’ marriage. Knew he wouldn’t be good at it.

He was halfway down the hall when one of the two swinging doors at the end opened. Helena came toward him. Elijah stopped dead in his tracks. She was a vision of loveliness like he’d never seen. Her curly, shoulder-length auburn-colored hair was now pinned up, the waves flowing randomly about her head. A red poinsettia was fixed behind her right ear. She wore a long forest green dress that hugged womanly curves usually hidden by loose scrub shirts. The top of the dress dipped, giving him a hint of cleavage that only made him want to see more. Short sleeves cupped her creamy shoulders. The skirt swirled about her legs as she came toward him, drawing his attention to her hips.

His heart picked up a beat. Not to mention the stirring south of his beltline. Heaven help him, Helena was breathtaking. Why hadn’t he noticed before?

They had been working together for a couple of years. More than once she and a few other of the staff had gone out to eat as a group after a shift but he’d never thought of her in any way except as a colleague. She’d always been pleasant but seemed closed off somehow. She gave off the vibe that she wasn’t someone who played around. With her wholesome southern drawl and gentle smile, she wasn’t one of those women who gave him a come-hither look he had no trouble obeying. Everything about her said serious, down-to-earth, love me forever. That was the type he stayed clear of. Maybe that’s why it had never registered that Helena could be so completely stunning.

Whatever the cause, it had been lifted from his eyes. He was noticing her now. Big time.

He needed to snap out of it. Had Helena said something to him? He blinked.

“Elijah, are you only now going to get dressed? You have less than an hour before we’re supposed to be walking down the aisle. Grace is going to have your hide.” She stepped closer.

Her wonderful aroma filled his nostrils. Nothing like the antiseptic smell of the hospital but something warm and earthy, intriguing. He was acting like a fool. Working to get a grip on himself, he grinned. He focused on a point just over her shoulder to get beyond how enchanting she looked. “It’s a good thing you’re a doctor. At least you’ll be able to patch me up.”

She lowered her chin and gave him a speculative look. “I don’t think I have enough medical training to save you from Grace’s wrath if you’re not there on time.”

He laughed. Helena did too. It had a sincere ring that sounded as if it came from her heart. He’d always liked that about her. She had a sense of humor. “Then I guess I need to get moving.” He started down the hall.

“That would be my suggestion.” She headed the other way.

Elijah stopped and looked back, his attention drawn to her hips. It was a shame her scrubs had been disguising those full curves for so long.

Minutes later he was under a hot shower. He was surprised he hadn’t needed a cold one after seeing Helena. How spectacular she’d looked still amazed him. At least he’d managed not to make a fool of himself. This sudden interest—no, infatuation—in Helena was crazy. He’d seen many woman in formal clothing yet had not reacted this way.

He was probably overtired from covering for Charles when the ER had been impossibly busy. Or maybe it was due to the wedding hoopla he normally stayed clear of. There was something out of sync with the universe for him to have had such an intense reaction to Helena. Especially when she was clearly not his type.

Half an hour later he shrugged into his black overcoat, adjusting it over his tuxedo. Wrapping his groomsman’s gift, a scarlet red scarf, securely around his neck, he popped a short black top hat on his head. It might be the silliest thing he’d ever worn if it wasn’t for the fact that it was so cold and not wearing a hat was even more ridiculous.

He received more than one interested look and a few grins as he made his way through the older part of the building to the lobby and out the front entrance of the hospital. His idea of dressing up was putting on a pair of slacks and a collared shirt. Casual was his style, less dog and pony show. He worked hard and liked to relax and have fun when he was off duty. Only when he couldn’t avoid it did he put on a suit for a medical meeting. To be wearing a tuxedo was taxing. The only reason he was doing so was because he loved his brother. Elijah wished him well. It had been hard on Charles when he’d lost his wife and had been left with two small sons to raise. Elijah was glad his brother had found love again, happiness.

Elijah pulled on his black gloves as he went down the stone steps to the street to catch a cab. It would get him to the park entrance nearest Shakespeare Garden and then he would have to walk from there. Just as Helena had told him more than once, he’d be cutting it close on time.

The taxi driver put him out at the curb and he hurried down the path. Thankfully, having grown up in New York, he knew Central Park well. He’d heard of people getting lost in the massive acreage. As a child, he and his siblings had played there. More than once they had picnicked in the Shakespeare Garden area among the trees and foliage. Those had been sunnier days, both literally and figuratively. Ones from a long time ago.

He hurried up a slope and made a left turn at a sign reading “Grace and Charles” with a large red bow on it. Up another rise he followed another path into an open area surrounded by snow-tipped trees. Smaller trees in the area were decorated in white lights that were shining brightly in the dimming daylight.

An arch made of red poinsettia and more white lights were at one end of the open space and facing it were rows of white chairs with red bows tied to the ones closest to the aisle. A few people were already taking their seats. Tall portable heaters were stationed around the ceremony area. At the other end of the field was a huge tent with four low round fire pits that glowed. His family was standing around them.

Elijah took a deep breath to fortify himself for what was coming.

As he approached, Charles left the group and walked toward him. “I thought I’d have to send Zac after you.”

“I told you I’d be here.” Elijah grinned at his brother. As twins, they had always been close. It wasn’t until they were eighteen that they’d had secrets between them. Elijah carried that guilt and regret to this day.

“Yeah, but I know better than most that you’re always five minutes behind.”

Elijah gave him a wry smile. “Funny, big brother. I’ve heard it all before. Just because you were born before me it doesn’t mean I’m one step behind you.”

“About following in my footsteps, how’re things at the hospital?” Charles asked as they continued toward the tent.

“Under control. We managed to get the patients waiting down to a reasonable headcount before I left.” Elijah couldn’t fault Charles for his dedication to his job, even on his wedding day. “What you need to be worrying about is that beautiful bride of yours. I’ve got the ER covered. Enjoy the day, your honeymoon and let me handle the rest.”

“I’m trying. I guess most of my worrying has to do with nerves.”

Elijah didn’t doubt that. The thought of a wedding made him edgy as well and he wasn’t the one getting married. He looked around. “So where are the rugrats?”

“Max and Cameron are with Grace. They’ll be coming down the aisle ahead of her.”

Elijah gave him a brotherly pat on the back. “I hope you have them bundled up. It’s cold out here.”

Charles laughed. “I know. But this is what Grace wanted. I love her so that’s what we’re having.”

That kind of love Elijah couldn’t comprehend. He’d never felt that for a woman. Didn’t think he ever would. He understood wanting, enjoying, appreciating a female but loving one the way his brother did Grace wasn’t something he’d experienced. More than that, Charles had been able to find it twice. Elijah didn’t plan to have it even once.

They approached the group of people creating a semicircle around one of the fire pits. His mother and father were there, standing close but not too close. His two younger sisters, who were dressed the same as Helena had been, except for white capes over their shoulders, stood off to the side, talking to Zac, his other brother, who was dressed like Elijah, down to the red scarf and hat.

This was his family. The one he loved and had betrayed. He’d kept an ugly secret from them that he had no right to. He had hurt his mother, who had done nothing but love and support him, to protect his father. He blamed himself for the farce they all were. And for the horror of the media circus they had become.

He took his sister Penny in his arms for a hug. “Hey, sis. You look great. Big change from that flight suit I usually see you in.” Turning to the other woman, he gathered her to him. “Good to see you, Miranda.”

“You look nice, Elijah,” his half-sister said. “Love the hat.”

“Thanks.” He slapped Zachary on the back and stepped over to his mother. The harsh look she’d worn as she’d watched him and Miranda embrace turned to one of warmth as she gave him a tight hug. His father came up beside them and extended his glove-covered hand. Elijah hesitated a moment before taking it. “Father.”

It was still difficult for Elijah to face him. The years had gone by and the pain had eased but all that had happened still hung like a bad smell between them. It couldn’t be erased. Elijah glanced at Miranda. The issue was a living, breathing person among them.

He’d been eighteen when he’d been on his way to meet a high school friend in the Hell’s Kitchen area of New York City. Passing a café, he’d glanced in the window to see his father sitting at a table with a woman and a girl of about twelve. Elijah hadn’t recognized them. He’d stopped and stared. It hadn’t been the type of place Hugo Davenport would frequent. Not thinking twice, Elijah had entered the café and approached the table.

“Hey, Dad. It’s a surprise to see you down here.” Elijah had stood there, grinning.

The shocked then stricken look of his father’s face had created a sick feeling deep in Elijah’s middle. His father had been caught. That was the moment Elijah had grasped he’d stepped into something dirty. He’d glanced at the woman, who had worn a worried look as she’d glanced between his father and him.

“Uh, Elijah. I h-hadn’t expected to see you,” his father had stammered.

He’d given his father a pointed look. “I hadn’t expected to see you either.”

Elijah had watched the woman fix her frightened eyes on his father.

“Daddy, can you pass me the ketchup?” the girl had asked.

Elijah’s attention whipped to the child. Daddy! What was going on here? Yet he already understood too clearly. Apparently, something had been going on for some time. His stomach roiled. He had to get out of here.

His father quickly stood. “Eli, it’s not what you think.” Panic filled his voice.

Elijah didn’t wait to hear more. He made it to the sidewalk before his arm was caught and he was turned to face his father.

“Son, I never wanted you or anyone else to find out like this. Think twice about what you’re going to do. This could destroy your mother. The rest of the family.”

His father should have been the one to think about that. “So what do you want me to do?” He was yelling. His heart was pounding. All he desired was to run.

“Calm down. We don’t want to make a scene.”

How like his father to worry about the family name while he was out ruining it. Protect the family name at all costs, Elijah had heard all his life.

“I want you to keep quiet about this. The affair ended long ago but... I do have a responsibility to Miranda.”

Elijah leaned toward him and all but spat the words, “You have a responsibility to Mom, to me, Charles, Penny. Your other family.”

“And I’m meeting that responsibility. What would be gained by telling everyone about Miranda? Hurting your mother?”

Stepping back, Elijah glared at his father then turned and walked off. The event changed his life and his relationship with his father forever for over the next five years Elijah carried his father’s secret. It’d gnawed at him like a rabid dog all that time until the day had come when the media had found out and all hell had broken loose. But with that Elijah had found relief yet he still carried the weight of having known and not said anything. Blamed himself for the lack of strength to tell everyone that the head of their perfect family was not perfect.

Elijah had been taught not to show emotion. His family was so well-known the media were interested in them. If he displayed his feelings they could be used against him or his family. Elijah had perfected concealing how he felt over the years of keeping his father’s secret. The skill had served him well when it came to his personal relationships also.

By all appearances, his parents, his father in particular, had gone on as if nothing had ever happened. His parents’ marriage had been one to admire by anyone looking from the outside but Elijah knew better. After the media had gotten involved and all the smoke had cleared, his parents had remained married but it was just for looks. His father did his thing and his mother hers.

They remained devoted to the hospital and fund-raising that went along with the Davenport legacy. For generations the Davenport family had been associated with the hospital both as physicians and philanthropists and his parents wouldn’t let that change for any reason. Now his parents showed up as a couple and smiled for the pictures but there was nothing real between them any more. Everything looked all clean and shiny on the outside but was rotten to the core on the inside.

Elijah wanted nothing to do with that kind of relationship. How could he ever trust anyone on an intimate level? His father had been bigger than life in Elijah’s eyes until he’d tumbled far and broken. It was safer not to get involved with anyone. Caring too much hurt. Going from one woman to the next meant his heart never became entangled and that suited him just fine. Appearances meant everything to his parents. Their example of love was a hollow thing. Nothing he was interested in being a part of.

As the years had passed he’d learned to first accept then love his illegitimate half-sister. What he hadn’t been able to set aside was his father convincing him to keep the ugly secret from his brothers and sister, and especially his mom. Elijah wasn’t sure who he was more disappointed with, himself or his father.

These days he and his father managed to remain civil, just barely.

“How’re things in the ER?” his father asked, sounding genuinely interested.

At least they had that in common. His father had been the head of the ER before he’d retired and Charles had taken over after him. Elijah only wished his father had given his family as much attention as he had his patients. “Busy, as you can expect during a storm.”

“I remember those days.”

“Hey Eli, it’s time to go to work,” Charles called. “The bride said I was to be up there, waiting for her, at six o’clock sharp.”

“Then we should be headed that way.” Elijah started around the fire pit toward Charles, tugging at his scarf. Whoever had come up with the idea to wear this get-up and have a wedding in freezing weather must be crazy. Or in love. That was Charles. And he was so in love that he would agree to anything.

Miranda and Penny had already disappeared. He assumed they had joined Grace. The chairs had filled up while he had been greeting his family. The wedding wasn’t a large one but a number of important people in the city were attending. He recognized some of the staff from the hospital as well. Each was bundled up as they waited for the ceremony to begin. They would be as relieved as him to get inside the tent for the reception dinner.

Minutes later Elijah took his position beside Charles at the front of the ceremony area near the arch of bright red poinsettias with greenery and lights. Snow drifted down as the harpist began to play a Christmas carol.

Who in their right mind got married outside in the middle of winter in New York? Elijah tried not to make a show of stomping his feet but they were freezing. This couldn’t be over soon enough for him.

CHAPTER TWO

THIS WAS THE most fairy-tale-like wedding Helena had ever seen or been a part of. Grace looked lovely. A more beautiful bride Helena had never seen.

Grace wore a long-sleeved, high-necked white dress, with a long white faux-fur cape. A circle of the same fur encircled her head with a small red poinsettia pin attached. She carried a bouquet of poinsettias. Grace had planned a perfect holiday wedding.

The event director began to line up Charles’s sisters, Penny and Miranda, while the harpist played “Silent Night.” Helena took her place just ahead of Grace and her father. When the wedding march music filled the air and the director sent the first attendant down the winding path through the trees, Helena adjusted the short white fur cape around her shoulders and put her hands into the matching muff, making sure the flower attached faced forward. Glancing behind her, she smiled at the picture Grace made as she bent down to speak to Charles’s boys, both in black double-breasted coats and paper-boy hats.

Helena walked down the path when told and out into the open. It was snowing. Under the trees, she hadn’t realized that. After lifting her face to the sky for a second, she continued to the top of the aisle. Charles and his groomsmen, Zac and Peter, also ER doctors from the hospital, were all waiting at the end. But none of the other men held her spellbound. Only Elijah. The corner of one side of his lips lifted as she met his gaze. Heavens, he was handsome. Hat and all. He was an old-world duke, dashing right up to the red rose in his lapel. Even his wayward hair was in place. Elijah had applied more than a little effort to making himself presentable. The results were impressive.

As she made the turn to where she was to stand, he winked at her as if to say, See? I made it on time. She couldn’t hide her answering smile. She took her spot and watched as Grace, escorted by her father, came forward to meet Charles. She glanced at Elijah. His playful appearance of earlier had disappeared. He had taken on a shadowy look. What was his problem?

Her focus returned to Charles and Grace yet she kept glancing at Elijah as the vows were being exchanged. One corner of his mouth did finally quirk upward, as if he found humor in the proceedings. The best she could tell, he liked Grace. Did he have a thing about weddings? Some men believed they were silly and a waste of time. Then again, maybe he was just cold.

For her, weddings were a new beginning. A beautiful outward expression of love, security, and a promise of tomorrows to come. Despite how deeply she’d been hurt in the past, she still dreamed of having that happily ever after. The right man, children, grandchildren and growing old together. She couldn’t give up believing her dream mate was out there somewhere.

Helena focused her attention on Grace and Charles and the soft smile between them. She wanted that silent communication, that bond. She’d been asked out, had even had a few relationships, which had lasted no longer than a couple of months. Still, she was cautious and she wasn’t ashamed to put up front what she wanted in an intimate relationship. She knew well what a superficial connection looked and felt like. Never again! Everlasting love was what she was looking for, someone who would be there for her through the happy as well as the tough times.

A few minutes later she stood beside Grace and facing Elijah as the bride and groom exchanged rings. She smiled as the minister pronounced them husband and wife before they kissed and headed up the aisle. She looked at Elijah, who stepped toward her. He had a smile on his face now.

She grinned at him as she took his offered arm. It was strong, secure, and steady. Even through his thick coat she appreciated his warmth. A hum of awareness zinged through her body. What was going on?

They’d taken a couple of steps when he leaned down close and said, “I was watching your face. You love this stuff, don’t you?”

He’d been watching her? “What’s not to appreciate about true love?”

He snorted. “You do know that a wedding is the only funeral you go to where you smell your own flowers.”

She glanced at him and whispered, “You’re awful.”

He chuckled as he led her off to the side so the others in the wedding party could come down the aisle.

“Well, I see you made it here on time with jokes in hand,” Helena remarked.

“I did. I cleaned up pretty good, I thought.” Elijah opened his scarf and pulled at his red bow-tie as if it was choking him.

“You do look mighty dashing, Dr. Davenport. Especially in your hat.” She smiled.

“All I’m missing is the cane and Charlie Chaplin mustache.” He did a small dance in imitation of the silent-movie star.

Helena laughed, not missing the sarcasm in his voice. “I, for one, love the romance of the old movies.”

“That figures. Only a bride would expect someone to wear this type of get-up.”

“You really aren’t enjoying this, are you?” She watched him closely.

“Let’s just say it isn’t my ‘thing.’ I’ll be glad when it’s over.”

“What, you got a hot date?”

“I wish. It’ll take more than a shower and hot toddy to make my toes have feeling again.” He wiggled his brows. “You interested in helping me warm up?”

She was glad that Grace called, “Come on, you two, we’ve got a few pictures to take and then we can go inside.”

Helena and Elijah followed the rest of the wedding party back to the arch. She took her position beside Grace and smiled as the camera flashed. Helena shifted away when it was time for the family picture. Elijah stood a little off to one side until the photographer waved him in next to one of his sisters. Even then he looked uncomfortable. As soon as he was released to leave he moved away. What was all that about? Maybe she was just imagining things.

Her family was close. Even after she had disappointed them by becoming pregnant, they had stood by her. She might live a long way away but she spoke to her parents regularly. Kept in touch with her siblings. She didn’t understand Elijah’s reaction to being around his family. The Davenports were important people in New York City. They were constantly working to support the hospital. To outward appearances they were a strong, loving family. So what was Elijah’s problem?

With all the pictures taken but for those of the bride and groom alone, Elijah headed for the tent. She overheard him grumble, “I need a drink.”

Helena followed along behind him, walking with his sisters. She entered the tent to blessed warmth. The heaters were working overtime but after the cold it felt wonderful. Twinkling white lights like those outside hung from the top of the tent, creating a fairy snow-globe feel. In the center hung a kissing ball. At the back of the large tent was an area with a burning rock fireplace with a wreath of red berries hung on it. On the mantel were pictures of Charles and Grace. Circling the hearth were comfortable-looking sofas with Christmas throw pillows. It was amazing.

Round tables with white cloths over them were arranged in a circle, creating a dance floor. The chairs had large red bows tied around the backs of them. In the middle of each table was a flickering candle surrounded by holly. On one side of the tent was a towering bride’s cake and on the other the groom’s.

Slowly strolling around, Helena took it all in. Most of the attendees had taken one of the hot drinks offered and moved toward the fireplace. She headed that way, planning to join them, but spotted Elijah standing off by himself near one of the heaters. He’d removed his overcoat and now wore only his tuxedo, looking every bit as gorgeous as he had before. Lifting his drink in a salute, he gave her a half-smile.

What kept drawing her to him tonight? Even in a room full of people, he pulled at her the way a Christmas present under a tree did a child. She had been working beside him for years and now all of a sudden he captured her attention. It was disconcerting.

Seeing the number of people crowded around the fireplace, with reluctance and a tingle of excitement she joined Elijah. “Do you mind if I share your heat?”

A wicked twinkle came to his eyes. She immediately wished she’d chosen different words.

“You’re welcome to all I have,” he said in a low, suggestive tone.

Helena suspected she was accepting more than just the space around the heater. This sexual tension being generated between them was starting to wear on her nerves. Could it be from the festivities or had there been something there she’d been missing all along?

Elijah’s lifestyle and hers were light years apart. He was all about the minutes and she about the years. Playing around and having a fling wasn’t her style. She was commitment and he was wham-bam, thank you, ma’am. His womanizing was legendary in the hospital. It always astonished her that he wasn’t despised by most of the females. Apparently, he always made it clear where he stood, going into a relationship, and only picked out women who accepted his guidelines. So why, every time she looked at him, did she catch him looking at her?

The two of them couldn’t be more different. Yet there was some element of Elijah’s personality that was vulnerable, as if he were searching. Anyone who went from woman to woman must be looking for or running from something. Either way, she wasn’t the answer.

She needed to move the conversation back to a more neutral subject. “I appreciate you sharing the heater. The fireplace is too crowded to do much good.”

“I thought there was a better chance of thawing out here.” He shifted so that he was warming a different spot.

“I’m glad my mother sent me some long underwear. It came in handy today.”

“That’s an interesting contrast to that dress.” He studied her, his gaze moving up and down as if he was imagining what she looked like without the dress.

Heat filled Helena that had nothing to do with being inside the tent. Why hadn’t she thought before she’d spoken? “We southerners aren’t used to this kind of weather.”

“I don’t imagine you are. You’re from Alabama, aren’t you?”

“Yes. Brantley, Alabama. Where the most snow we see is a few flurries every ten years.”

“I’ve not heard of it.”

She giggled. “No reason you should. It’s a small town south of Montgomery.”

“So what brings a small-town southern girl to the big city?” He appeared truly interested.

“A job. I wanted to live in a big city after growing up in a tiny town.”

“I guess after the last few days a small southern town sounds good. It’s been crazy.” He glanced over her shoulder as if he was checking on where everyone was.

“It is always invigorating during a storm.”

He chuckled dryly. “That’s a nice way to put it.”

“I’d think you’d be used to that kind of action with your family’s deep involvement in the hospital. You must have seen your parents working when you were growing up.”

His lips tightened for a moment before he said, “I went to work with my father a couple of times.”

“My father owns a large cattle farm that has been in the family for generations. I saw him at work a lot. Even helped him out.” Helena looked around, finding Grace. She was glowing as she spoke to a couple.

Grace only knew a few people attending so she had a reason to act like a wallflower. But Elijah? It seemed as if he was making a point to not join in. “Why aren’t you mingling? Don’t you know most of these people?”

He smiled. “I’d rather keep you company.” Somehow Elijah made it sound as if he found it a great honor.

Grace and Charles were now finding their designated table for two near the dance floor. The other guests started taking their seats at tables as well.

“I guess it’s time for us to join the party.” Relieved, Helena started toward the table reserved for the wedding party. She felt more than saw Elijah follow her. Since when had she become so in tune with him? Surely by tomorrow her emotions would settle back to normal. It must be the happiness in the wedding air that had her so out of sorts.

She found her place card. With regret and a perverse thrill, she saw that Elijah was seated next to her. He held her chair for her before he sat. Seconds later one of his knees brushed her thigh as he worked to get his long legs under the table. Even that innocent action sent a bolt of self-consciousness through her.

He leaned over and said close to her ear, “Looks like we’re partners for the evening.”

Helena glanced his direction. He wore a teasing grin. At least his sullenness was gone. Despite her better judgement, she liked the idea of being his partner. “It seems so.”

“You don’t mind?”

Did her answer really matter to him? The way his eyes considered her made Helena think it might. But maybe he was just toying with her. “No, I don’t.”

Elijah’s eyes held that same stunned look he’d worn when they had met in the hospital hallway. The one that made her feel like he had just now really seen her. “Good.”

As Elijah and Charles’s siblings joined them, their conversation ended. Elijah acknowledged each one as they sat at the table but he seemed to hold back, as if he feared they might not be glad to have him around. Yet that didn’t seem the case.

“Hey, Zac, isn’t that Ella over there?” Penny, Manhattan Mercy’s air ambulance paramedic, asked their brother innocently as she looked toward the other side of the tent at the blonde ER doctor.

“Yeah, that looks like her,” he responded in an offhand manner.

“Didn’t I hear she was moony-eyed over you when you were in med school together?” Elijah teased. “But she seems to be dodging you now. Not even looking your way.”

Zac turned back to the table as if to dismiss the idea. “I don’t know why she would.”

The ringing clink of a glass being tapped drew everyone’s attention. Grace’s father, who had been sitting at a table across the dance floor, was on his feet. He gave a short speech of welcome before waiters and waitresses began to serve the meal. Elijah’s thigh came to rest against hers while they waited for their first course. A glow flowed through her that had nothing to do with the warm soup she was soon served. Elijah participated little in the table conversation, seeming more interested in the food. Soon a plate of filet mignon, scalloped potatoes and julienne mixed vegetables were replacing their empty bowls.

“I like a woman who’s not afraid to enjoy her food,” Elijah remarked.

Her hand stopped in midair. “I’m sorry if I appear to be a pig. I’ve missed far too many meals in the last few days.”

“I didn’t mean to insult you. It’s just nice to see a female who doesn’t eat like a bird.” He grinned. “I missed a few of those meals too.”

“You’ve been dating too many women who were hoping to impress you,” Helena quipped.

He raised a brow. “Which you aren’t trying to do. I had no idea you were paying any attention to my social life.”

Helena lowered her chin, giving him an indignant look. “I don’t. I’ve heard talk of your exploits.”

He chuckled. “Exploits.”

“Sounds like it didn’t take Helena long to peg you as a commitment-phobe.” Penny grinned across the table at him.

Elijah shrugged, appearing unashamed.

Penny’s statement and Elijah’s reaction just confirmed what Helena already knew. Even if they had been thrown together tonight, and how handsome and charming Elijah was, he wasn’t a good choice for her. She’d experienced bone-deep hurt before, was determined she wouldn’t go through it again, and she wasn’t going to let Elijah slip under that fence. Tomorrow her reaction to him would be back to normal—that being none.

The tapping on glass once more brought the crowd to silence. This time Elijah’s father stood next to the table he shared with Grace’s father. A low groan came from Elijah. Was he feeling ill? She looked over her shoulder at him. The dessert fork he fiddled with held his attention.

“I would like to say how happy Vanessa and I are to welcome Grace into our family,” Hugo Davenport said in a booming voice.

Helena had never met the patriarch of the family but she was aware of his larger-than-life presence around the hospital. He was even more impressive in person.

“Family is everything,” the older man continued.

This time she distinctly heard a low expletive from Elijah as he shifted in his chair. His leg tugged her dress and she reached down to move it. At the same time Elijah settled and his hand covered hers for a second. Electricity zipped through her. Her look jerked to his. When their eyes locked his anger quickly faded and was replaced by something she couldn’t identify. A second later he removed his hand but his thigh remained pressed against hers as he settled deeper into his chair.

She looked at his father but her attention remained on Elijah. For some reason she had the idea she was a lifeline for him at the moment. That he needed this sexual tension between them to focus on instead of his father. When Hugo Davenport finished speaking the stiffness in his son’s body eased. Elijah no longer touched her.

Soon the bride’s cake was rolled out into the center of the dance floor. Grace and Charles went out to cut it. With the flash of the photographer’s camera they cut and shared a bite, smiling at each other. The wait staff brought champagne in silver buckets for each of the tables. At the same moment they released the caps. A pop, pop, pop filled the air.

The silverware and glasses rattling jolted Helena’s look away from the bride and groom to her tablemates. Zac’s head was down almost completely under the table. A few seconds later he straightened. His jaw was tight and his mouth drawn into a straight line. There was a dark, glazed expression in his eyes.

“Uh, sorry. I dropped my napkin. Hit my head underneath the table,” Zac muttered. He looked more anxious than he did embarrassed.

A light tap on her shoulder made Helena glance around to see the wedding director holding a microphone. Heavens, she had forgotten she would have to make a toast.

Swallowing hard, she stood and lifted her glass. “To Grace and Charles. I wish for you a happily ever after.” With that she lifted her glass to her lips and took a sip. The other wedding guests joined her.

She turned and offered the microphone to Elijah. Smiling, she said softly, “Now it’s your turn.”

“Why am I not surprised with your choice of toast?” he hissed, before he raised the microphone to his mouth. He paused as if giving what he was going to say deep thought. “Charles, I’m glad you found Grace. Grace, take care of him. He is the better half of me. Love him, he deserves it. I wish you both the best.” Lifting his glass, Elijah drained the liquid. Done, he gave the wedding director the microphone and took his seat.

The crowd erupted in applause.

Helena leaned toward Elijah. “Very nice.”

He grinned, the first genuine one he’d had in a while. “I bet you didn’t think I had it in me.”

There was no chance for her to comment before a waiter placed a plate with cake on it in front of her. While taking a bite, she glanced at Zac. He still looked on edge. Before she finished her dessert, he excused himself from the table. Did all the Davenports have some issue?

With the toasts completed and the cake served, a small ensemble in one corner of the tent struck up the first tune of the evening. Charles led Grace onto the dance floor and into a waltz. Grace looked radiant, having only eyes for her new husband. Helena sighed. That was what she wanted. A real relationship. To be so in love that nothing they faced together would be impossible.

“You’re drinking all this in, aren’t you?” Elijah said as he leaned in close behind her.

“They look so in love.” Even she heard the dreamy note in her voice.

“So it appears,” Elijah said dryly.

She twisted toward him. “You don’t believe in love?”

Elijah said flatly, “I’m not sure I know what it is.”

Helena considered him for a moment. “How sad.” She noticed a flicker of insecurity in his eyes before she turned back to watch Grace and Charles.

The song ended and another began. The wedding director came up beside them and spoke softly to Elijah.

“It’s time for us to join the bride and groom.” Elijah stood and offered his hand to Helena.

She looked at it. What would it be like, being held by him? The thought sent a flash of sensual current through her she wasn’t comfortable with but couldn’t ignore. Her gaze met his. There was a spark of a dare in his eyes. Something about his expression had her fearing she might be accepting more than a dance.

Elijah grinned. “It looks like the work of a bridesmaid and best man is never done.”

Her hand touched his. It was large, smooth, and solid. His long, tapered fingers surrounded hers. With a gentle tug, he helped her to her feet. His hand rested lightly at her waist as she moved ahead of him toward the dance floor. She shivered.

“Don’t worry, you’ll be warm enough in a minute,” he whispered from close beside her.

That’s what she was afraid of. Her over-the-top reaction to him. Did it show? Did he see it? Did the others?

Her feet had hardly touched the dance floor before she was swept into Elijah’s sturdy arms and whisked away. One of her hands he held securely in his while the other she placed on his broad shoulder. His free hand fanned out on her waist to firmly hold her close. Her breasts skimmed his chest, tingling in reaction.

He smelled of citrus and smoke. It reminded her of the pleasure of a cool fall night, sitting around a fire watching the flames. In a weak moment she moved to rest her cheek against his. It was smooth. He’d shaved before dressing for the wedding. She inhaled. That scent she would forever associate with Elijah.

As his skillful feet moved she followed, her dress swirling around her legs and his as well. She’d never before been swept around a dance floor like this. He was a magnificent dancer. All she had to do was to hang on and enjoy.

“You’re a wonderful dancer,” she murmured.

He chuckled. “Surprised?”

“Maybe a little. I just never pegged you as a ballroom dancer.”

“I’m not. I haven’t done this in years. My mother saw to it that we all learned to dance. ‘Davenport men must put their best foot forward.’ I heard that more than once.”

“I’ll have to thank her for this wonderful experience.”

“It’s not just all her. I’m the one doing the work here.” He sounded a little perturbed.

She looked at him. “I thank you as well.”

They made another heavenly turn around the floor. Helena looked away from Elijah long enough to see that others in the wedding party had joined them.

“You know you look amazing tonight,” he said softly against her temple.

His appreciation stoked the growing fire in her. She couldn’t remember the last time a man had complimented her on her appearance. “Thank you.”

“Helena?” He rolled her name around on his tongue as if he was trying to remember something of importance. “Reminds me of Helen of Troy. If my memory of Greek mythology is correct, Helen was worshipped for her beauty. The Trojan War was fought over her.” He looked into her eyes. “Have any wars been fought over you?”

“No.”

“Maybe just not yet.” His face turned serious. “Let me think what else I can remember about her.”

They continued to dance. Helena forgot there was anyone else around them.

He finally said, “She was fickle in her youth. Were you?”

Helena could have been considered that. She certainly managed to make a mess of her teenage years. “Some.”

“She was carried off to Troy by the Spartans. And here you are in New York so far from home. And if I remember correctly, she wished for a husband and child. How about you, is that what you want?”

“Sure. Don’t most women?”

“Some don’t. I could tell from your toast you are into all this.” He nodded toward the wedding festivities.

“What’s not to love about love?”

He snorted. “That’s just a bunch of malarkey that’s perpetuated to make money.”

“You don’t think much of weddings, do you?” She pulled back so she could see him clearly.

“Nope. Waste of money and energy.” Elijah pulled her back to him. “I believe in having a good time where both people can leave without having any feelings hurt.” His look grew intense and questioning. “And mutual satisfaction for as long as it lasts.”

Her step faltered but he held her securely until they were in sync again. “What happened to make you so jaded?” She should be the one who felt that way but instead she was convinced there was someone out there just for her.

Elijah’s eyes darkened as if he was remembering something distasteful. “Let’s just say that some marriages can be all perfect on the outside but rotten and nasty on the inside.”

It made her feel sad that he believed that. “Not all marriages are that way.”

“Why go through all this marriage nonsense when you can just have a good time?”

She stopped. He did as well but still held her. “Because you make a commitment. A promise that you will share this person’s life, no matter what happens. Otherwise you go from one woman to the next, discarding them when you’re done.”

His lips thinned. “That sounds like an accusation.”

She glared at him. “But it’s the truth, isn’t it?”

He shrugged.

“That’s disgusting.” Helena wanted nothing to do with being thrown away. She’d been there and had that done to her. She hadn’t guarded herself all these years only to slip back into the same trap that had snared her in her teens. No matter how attractive, or funny, or regardless of how much she appreciated his dancing skills, Elijah wasn’t the man for her. She needed to get away while she could.

“We’ve done our duty, I think. Thanks for the dance.” She stepped out of Elijah’s arms and headed for their table.

She’d had enough, felt as if Elijah had stomped on her dreams. His cynical way of looking at weddings, marriage and love was the polar opposite to what she dreamed of and hoped for. Why his pessimistic opinion of love mattered to her so much she didn’t understand. She didn’t really know Elijah. What little she’d learned tonight had soured her on him.

That wasn’t true. She was without question attracted to him physically but they didn’t want the same things out of life. He wanted a fun time and she wanted a long time. She had to step out of this fairy-tale environment and re-enter reality where they were just hospital colleagues. Still, for the first time in years she’d felt a compelling desire for a man. Felt alive.

Disgusted with herself, she stopped by the table long enough to snatch her cape off the back of her chair then headed for a side door.

She was actually falling for Elijah, the playboy of Manhattan Mercy. What was she thinking? That she could change him? He’d been playing with her. Being someone’s plaything held no interest for her.

Or had he? Not once had he suggested there could be more between them. He hadn’t even asked her out. There had been casual flirting between them, that was all. She’d responded and he’d acted on it. Now she was overreacting.

Taking the exit, cold air blasted her and she quickly pulled the cape over her shoulders. Being out here would cool her angst. Snow swirled around her. Stepping further into the open space, she lifted her face. Pure delight welled in her, replacing any anger she felt toward herself and Elijah’s attitude. Stretching her arms out, she slowly twirled.

* * *

Elijah unhurriedly followed Helena, hoping to give her time to cool down. Going outside, he came to an abrupt stop. Helena had her head back, her arms extended, and was slowly turning in a circle. Snow fluttered around her in the night. Her dress flowed as she moved, reminding him of the ballerina in Penny’s childhood music box. She looked mystical.

He couldn’t help but smile. She’d been angry with him for some reason just seconds ago and now here she was being a snow fairy. The sudden change only made him want to know more about her. What made her tick? Why did she take his reaction to marriage so personally? More than that, why did it matter to her?

As if Helena realized she was being watched, she stopped and stared at him.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to interrupt,” he said quietly.

“I need to go in anyway. I’m getting cold.” She put her arms across her chest, closing herself off.

“Why don’t we finish our dance out here?”

“I don’t think so.” She sounded so much like a sulking child that Elijah couldn’t help but grin.

“I didn’t mean to make you mad. I’d really like to finish our dance.” He came toward her and offered his hand. “When will you ever get another chance to dance in falling snow?”

With her romantic view of the world he was sure he had her with that question. She wouldn’t be able to resist. Seeing her indecision, he smiled. “You know you want to.”

She hesitated so long he feared he had been wrong about her. Just as he was about to give up she said, “Okay,” and she placed her hand in his. “One dance and I’m done.”

He took her into his arms and they moved to the low sound of the band inside. It felt good to have her next to him again. Something about it seemed right. The cold had cut through his tuxedo when he’d walked out of the tent but with Helena against him the weather was perfect.

Elijah led her for a couple of turns around a heater before he said, “Helena, just what did I say that made you so mad back there?”

“It’s not a big deal. Don’t worry about it.” She made it sound as if it didn’t matter but he was sure it did.

“I’d like to know.” He stopped moving and looked at her. “We were having a good time then I messed it up somehow. I’d really like to know what I did so I won’t do it again.”

It took her a good minute to respond. “It’s just that I don’t appreciate you making fun of my hopes and dreams.”

He looked directly into her eyes. “I didn’t mean to do that.”

“I realize that now. We just have different views of life.” There was a wistful tone in her voice.

There was some truth in that. Despite her being a top-notch doctor in a major hospital, there was something innocent and childlike in her outlook. He was definitely jaded.

“Tell me about yours. What do you want?” He pressed her back, hoping to encourage her.

“I’ve already told you. I want a husband and children. A place to go home to after work where there’s love and laughter. Security.”

“Isn’t that a little naive in this day and age?” He led her into the dance again.

She looked directly at him, missing a step. “I don’t think so. My parents have it. Grace and Charles have clearly found it. I know of others who have, too.”

Elijah winced. His parents had not.

“Why’s that so important to you?” He wasn’t convinced it existed.

There was no time for her to think before she said, “Because of it my parents were able to help me during the darkest time of my life. Because of their love, I felt loved.”

He used to feel that way. Now betrayal filled that space. “What happened?”

“Let’s just say that teenage love isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be.”

Helena’s words were flat. She didn’t act as if she wanted to share more. He certainly didn’t either but he couldn’t help saying, “Yet you still think love exists and it’s all wonder and smiles. Like this big show.” He waved his hand toward the tent.

“Just because I was hurt once, it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist. For me or for you. It just means that we should be open to it when it comes. Accept it, treasure it and share it.”

“You really are a believer in fairy tales.” There was more amazement than disgust in his voice, to his surprise. He liked this less world-weary view of life but it wasn’t reality.

She straightened. “I am.” There was a proud note in her voice.

He stopped dancing. “I am not. I have no interest in fairy tales or marriage. What I do know is there’s something between us. Something strong that has nothing to do with love. I know I feel it and I think you do to. If you didn’t feel it, you wouldn’t have gotten so mad. But let me be clear, all I’ll ever be interested in is a mutual good time. No attachments. Don’t look to me for the long haul. I’m not your knight on a white charger, or the one who’ll save you from the tower. You’ll need to look elsewhere for that guy.”

Sadness filled her eyes.

Elijah lifted her chin with a finger. “But I can promise you one of these as often as you want.”

His mouth found hers. A small sound of surprise escaped hers before his lips settled completely. Helena’s lips were cold, yet plump and inviting. She stood rigid for a moment before he pulled her against him and teased her mouth. As he did so, she relaxed and slid her hands beneath his lapels to hold the crest of his shoulders. Her fingers curled in as she moaned. The tip of his tongue brushed the line of her lips until she opened. She tasted sweet, like ripe frozen strawberry dipped in champagne. He cupped her cheek, directing her mouth more directly to his as he gathered a handful of her dress and pulled her close. White-hot desire roiled through him.

Helena came up on her toes, her arms reaching around his neck. Her tongue joined his in an erotic dance like none he’d ever experienced. Heaven help him, Helena was hotter than he’d imagined. They were standing in the snow and cold, and all he could think about was taking her clothes off. Her hands found the nape of his neck and fondled his hair before tugging his head closer. As far as he was concerned, their kiss could go on forever.

“Uh, excuse me, you two.” Grace’s voice came from the direction of the door.

How many times had she called?

Helena immediately let go and pushed away, straightening her dress. His hands went slack at his sides. Yet his fingers itched to touch her again.

Grace gave them a quizzical look.

“We need to get a couple of pictures if you two can spare a minute.” Charles’s low chuckle accompanied the statement as he peered at them from his bride’s side.

“We’ll be there in a sec,” Elijah growled.

CHAPTER THREE

WHAT HAD SHE been thinking? Doing? To let Elijah kiss her. To be kissing him. Out where anyone could see. If it had continued, by the rate they had been going they’d have been on the ground soon. She didn’t act like that. Where had her good sense gone? It had disappeared like snow in a fire the second Elijah’s lips had touched hers.

How was she supposed to face Grace when she entered the tent? There was no doubt that her face was pink but it had nothing to do with the cold and everything to do with being kissed as if the world were coming to an end. Elijah had skills. Skills that her body responded to. She had been out of control and on a ride like no other as his lips had held hers. It was a scary place but one she’d love to revisit.

Helena wasted no time returning inside. She didn’t give him a backward glance as she stalked toward the door. Thankfully Elijah made no pithy remark as he came in behind her. She wasn’t sure she could have taken his flippant attitude right then. Those moments before might be his usual way of operating but they were not hers. Her world, her beliefs had been tipped over.

“Hey, we need you over here,” Grace called from where she stood facing the group already lined up in front of the fireplace. She waved them forward. “Go stand beside Charles.”

Helena continued past him with the intent of taking a position beside Grace.

She said, “No. Stand over there beside Elijah. I want this to be a fun picture, not too formal.”

Helena gave her a Really? look. Grace just grinned.

Reluctantly Helena did as she was asked and moved over in front of Elijah. He looked pleased. Great. He was certainly self-assured while she was still quaking inside. She put her back to him, hoping she could pull off a nonchalant attitude as well. But then his warm breath tickled her neck and she trembled.

He whispered right against her ear, “You thought you were going to get away, didn’t you?”

She had no time to respond before Grace said, “Helena, Elijah needs his tie adjusted. Could you do that? Then I think we’ll be ready.”

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