MARRYING MALLORY By Diane Craver

Marrying Mallory Copyright 2012 by Diane Craver Cover Art by Diane Craver

Marrying Mallory is a work of fiction. Though some actual towns, cities, and locations may be mentioned, they are used in a fictitious manner and the events and occurrences were invented in the mind and imagination of the author. Any similarities of characters or names used within to any person past, present, or future is coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the author. Brief quotations may be embodied in critical articles or reviews.

Dedication To Bartholomew, A totally fabulous and wonderful guy plus a terrific son.

He has made everything beautiful in its own time. Ecclesiastes 3:11

LASR REVIEW OF MARRYING MALLORY Rating: 4.5 Books Reviewed by Fennel In his book, Writing the Breakout Novel, Donald Maas states, God works in little ways as well as big ones, so look for small moments of magic as well as big ones. He then asks, Have you ever felt that something that happened to you was fated? Well in Diane Cravers book, Marrying Mallory, that is the precept she has used. Mallory is born with a nose she considers too large and ungainly for her face, and is fed-up with her students snickering behind her back so decides to take action. Consider: if an unseen act of God had not occurred, Mallory would never have crossed paths

with plastic surgeon, Seth Whitman. A devout and practicing Christian, Mallory is also faced with coming to terms with accepting that her divorce from her cheating husband Toby slices right through her religious beliefs. Can she learn to forgive herself for what she perceives as a betrayal of her beliefs? For all Seths charms, strength and obvious attraction to her, can Mallory learn to forgive herself and accept reality for what it is? Not content in stirring the pot of confusion in her heroines mind, Ms. Craver then sets to work on her hero, giving him ethical and emotional dilemmas enough to floor the strongest of heroes. But Seths Christian faith and staunch friends do not let him down. All he has to achieve, now, is to undo the authors masterly character development in her heroine and convince Mallory they have a future together. Ms. Cravers secondary characters all play pivotal roles in the story without usurping the hero and heroine. Time, place and setting all enhance and move the plot along and create vivid imagery

for her readers. For those who assume an inspirational romance cannot handle conflict, drama and suspense, I recommend they read Diane Cravers Marrying Mallory, for it is all there.

Chapter One Her luck was about to change. Mallory Harrington could feel it in her bones. In the past, shed felt cursed at times. Too many things had gone wrong in her thirty-two years of life. Itd started when her father left. He never even said good-bye, but at age five she knew he wasnt coming back. He hated living in Findlay, Ohio. They couldnt go with him because her mother refused to leave Grandma. As a seventh grader, Mallory climbed a tree to get a football for the little neighbor boy. After dislodging it from a high limb, she tossed the ball to him. Mallory started her long climb down, but slipped before reaching the ground. A barbed wire fence ripped her cheek during the fall. The jagged opening required thirty stitches. Then she was robbed of being valedictorian because a few weeks ahead of graduation, another students grades were a little higher. Shed counted on receiving a full academic scholarship to

college. When she married Toby Harrington, she finally felt blessed. Doubly blessed when she gave birth to their son, Joshua. But her happiness ended the night Toby asked for a divorce. All she ever wanted was to have a complete family and live happily ever after. Was she jinxed? The name Mallory meant luckless. If her mother had realized the meaning of her name, would it have made a difference? Would she still have named her Mallory? Dont be silly. My name didnt cause my marriage to end. Ill get what I want in my life. Ive already accomplished the first challenge, which hadnt been fun. I cant wait to share my good news with Elizabeth and Heather. She prayed, Thank you, Lord, for my friends, Elizabeth Wright and Heather Richards. They are a constant in my life, just like You. She glanced at her kitchen clock to see if it was time to meet them and felt a surge of excitement. She couldnt wait to share her important news. Five-year-old Josh was at Tobys so she was free

to go to dinner with her friends. She was glad theyd decided on the nearby Olive Garden restaurant. Before leaving her house, she grabbed the paper by the computer. She stared for a minute at the attractive man with black hair. Im glad I printed his bio and photo to show Heather and Elizabeth. As Mallory held the paper for a minute, she realized that this man would change her life if she went ahead with the plan. After folding and putting the paper in her purse, she headed out, anxious to give her incredible news in person. At the restaurants doorway, the hostess escorted Mallory to the booth where her friends were already seated. Mallory smiled at both women. With her sleek, honey-blonde hair and subtle but deftly applied makeup, Elizabeth looked like she had stepped off a beauty contest runway. She wore a pale pink jacket with black pants. She liked Heathers leopard-print chiffon dress on her, but it wasnt something shed wear. Hi. You two must have gotten here early. I changed out of my nurse scrubs as fast as I

could, Heather said. I need to hear good news for a change. Hurry, sit, Elizabeth said. I bet I know what you want to tell us. You got that teacher award, didnt you? You deserve it. I dont know how you stand teaching junior high students. Theyre such a high maintenance group. I didnt get the teaching award. It went to a high school science teacher. She noticed Heathers new haircut. I like your short hair with bangs. Its very cute on you. I have two things to tell you. Heres the first. She twirled around before sitting beside Heather. Elizabeth fingered a silver button on her jacket. Its about time you bought new clothes for yourself. You look great in that skirt and top. Awesome. Her blue skirt and v-neck top passed Elizabeths approval. Her friend had a good eye for fashion. If she ever stopped being a speech therapist, Elizabeth should consider a clothing career. With a pleased expression, Heather said, Oh, I get it. You lost the rest of your weight.

She nodded. I finally lost the last five pounds. So thats a total of fifteen, right? Elizabeth asked. Yes and She paused. Now she was afraid to tell them. Maybe they wouldnt be excited for her. She was so proud of herself that shed made the appointment and wanted to share it with her best friends. But looking at their happy faces, she wondered if they would be disappointed. They might think she was being superficial. Heather searched her face. Whats wrong? You went from a big grin to a frown. If you won the lottery, I wont be jealous. Just dont give any of your money to Toby. Geez, dont get me started, Elizabeth said. Promise you arent going to talk about your exhusband. She was saved for the moment because the waitress came to take their order. Toby had nothing to do with her big decision, but still her friends might disagree with what she wanted to do. She had a sinking feeling they wouldnt approve.

After the waitress left, she pulled the paper out of her purse and handed it to Elizabeth. This guys going to change my life. Hes hot. I cant believe you never told us about him. Im glad you decided to date. Elizabeth passed the sheet to Heather. Mallory shook her head. Im not dating him. Im interested in what he can do for me. While looking at the photo, Heather frowned. I know this surgeon. Hes Dr. Whitman. She exhaled deeply. Ive decided to have surgery but decided to lose weight first. Today I called and made an appointment to see Dr. Whitman. Hes supposed to be the best plastic surgeon for rhinoplasty. I didnt want to see him until I lost my weight. I was afraid if I went in being overweight, hed think I also needed liposuction. Elizabeths perfect eyebrows shot up. I seriously doubt hed have thought that you needed liposuction. So far, so good. Inserting body image in that way had been brilliant. Elizabeth latched on the

weight issue first instead of nose surgery. She grinned. It was a great motivator since it got me to lose some excess baggage. Heather said, I dont understand. You dont need to have plastic surgery. I agree. Elizabeth patted her arm. I like your nose. She stared at her friends faces. You two are lucky having small noses, but you know Ive always hated my nose. I had to get a nose like my dads. He looked fine with a bigger nose, but being a female I want a smaller one. But youre already pretty, Elizabeth said. You were Halloween Queen our senior year. Mallory laughed. Right. I didnt get Homecoming Queen, but got plenty of votes to be Halloween Queen. My big nose reminded everyone of a witch. Heather shook her head. No way. You looked gorgeous riding in the convertible in the big parade in Findlay. Since their drinks had arrived, Elizabeth sipped her iced tea. Hey, your mom told us how a

photographer asked if you could be a model for his agency. I was nine. My nose was still small. She smiled. You two arent going to change my mind. Ive wanted this since high school. Have you ever watched Discovery Health Channel or Dr. 90210? Heather asked. No. I dont have cable, remember? How could Heather forget? She teased her a lot about only getting a few channels. She was glad now she didnt have that expense. Well, they show how they make incisions. Then you can see how they cut pieces of bone and cartilage. But the scary thing is what the patients look like after surgery. Their faces are all badly bruised, and theres swelling for several weeks after surgery. Oh, no. You dont want your nose to be swollen for my wedding. Elizabeth said, looking worried. And Heathers right. I saw a gruesome episode where they did nose surgery and it was so awful that I had a nightmare. The server stood by her side, holding a hand

grinder. Do you want grated cheese on your salad? Yes, please. After Mallory told him that was enough cheese, she turned to Elizabeth. Your wedding isnt until August. Thats four months away. Yes, but you hate to take time off from teaching, so Im guessing youre going to do it when schools out for the summer. Then itll be closer to my wedding. Ill ask the doctor if Ill be presentable enough to be a bridesmaid in an August wedding. At least we know there will be a marriage. Heather sprinkled salt on her salad. I cant believe I called off two weddings. You did the right thing both times. Elizabeth picked up a breadstick. Im glad we decided to eat at Olive Garden. They have the best breadsticks. Poor Heather had been in love with two great guys, but each time shed gotten cold feet and broken the engagements. When shed been engaged to Toby, itd been such a wonderful time in her

life. Shed been positive he was the one for her. Heather, you should drive me when I have the surgery. When I was checking out Dr. Whitmans credentials on the Internet, it didnt mention anything about him being married. And from his photo, hes very good-looking. Sure, Ill be your driver if youre determined to do this, Heather said. He has a sterling reputation. And hes single. Maybe Dr. Whitman will fall in love with you, and you wont have to pay for your surgery. Thats not going to happen. For one thing, Im sure its not ethical from a professional standpoint, and for another thing Im not looking to get romantically interested in my plastic surgeon. When I mentioned Dr. Whitmans single status, I was thinking how you two might hit it off. You both like surgery. The only man for her had been Toby. Although theyd been divorced for five months, she hadnt gone out with anyone. And she didnt plan on it. A teacher at her school had asked her out recently and shed turned him down. She had her shot at marriage and it ended.

Im not interested in a surgeon for future husband material. Heather laughed. I was engaged to one. Remember? Maybe Dr. Whitman will be different. Heathers past surgeon fianc had been pretty uptight. Elizabeth wiped her mouth with a napkin. How are you going to pay for this surgery? Im probably going to take out a medical loan. Im not sure how much itll cost yet, so Ill decide when I know the exact price. Who was she kidding? She hated to borrow money and pay interest. After all, she saw what had happened to her mother when she got deeper and deeper in debt. Fortunately, her mothers financial status had improved. What brought this on anyhow? Elizabeth asked. I decided if Im going to do this surgery, I shouldnt wait any longer. What about Josh? Do you think hell be scared to see you with a splint on your nose? Heather took a sip of iced tea.

Im hoping he wont have to see me. I want to schedule it when hes away. I looked online and the splint is on for only a week. Hes going to visit Tobys parents for two weeks in June at a lake house they rented. Holding a breadstick in her hand, she said, I love the smell of bread baking. Maybe I could get a part-time job as a baker to help pay for my surgery. Elizabeth chuckled. You baked bread sometimes at the steak house when you worked there one summer. You complained how you got burned taking the pans out of their oven. Mallory sighed. I even get burned on my own oven. Im such a klutz. Dont get mad but I like the way you look, Heather said. She wasnt surprised by Heathers comment. You just dont like change. Theres nothing wrong with your nose. I dont think its big. Did your students say something nasty about your nose? Elizabeth asked. Remember, theyre kids and like to rile the teacher. It makes their day interesting.

I did overhear a few students say that Mrs. Harrington has big boobs and a big nose, but that isnt why I want surgery. Ella shes a teacher at my school who recently had nose surgery. Shes pleased with what Dr. Whitman did. I tried to talk my mom into letting me have surgery before I started college, but she was adamantly against it then. Its been in the back of my mind ever since. And you didnt want me to mention Toby, but I have to. His girlfriend Samantha has a cute little nose so Im a bit envious. Well, shes also a blonde. Are you going to change your hair color too? Elizabeth gave her a big grin. We can both be blonde for my wedding. She shook her head. I dont think Id look good as a blonde. Anyhow I like my brown hair. Listen, you two Im only changing my nose. Nothing else. Im glad you arent married to Toby any longer. Elizabeth sighed. I know you arent going to like to hear this, but Toby never appreciated you. You put him through law school and it wasnt easy with you assuming all the financial

responsibilities. Then the louse cheats on you. And its so unfair he built a beautiful house while you stayed in the old small one that constantly needs work done on it. Heather told the waitress thanks as she refilled her drink. You know Mallory wanted to keep their house. And Toby paid off the mortgage and gave the house to her. Elizabeth shrugged. I guess that was a bit generous, but Im sure he was also thinking about Josh when he did it. Some things never changed. Elizabeth tore Toby down and Heather defended him. It has needed some minor repairs, she said. And its not that old. Only twenty years old. Toby did come over when the lights kept flickering in the living room. Elizabeth laughed. We all know that you couldve figured it out. But that was a clever way to get him to work on your house. Toby surprised me how quickly he came to look at it. I guess he didnt want an electrical fire happening in the house. Plus Josh complained to

him about the TV going off and on before I used an extension cord to plug it in another room. When Elizabeths cell phone rang, she pulled it out of her purse. After glancing at the caller ID, she told them, Its my mom. Mallory took a sip of her coffee. Thank goodness, she liked it without sugar and cream. When she drank iced tea, she had to have lots of sugar in it. She worked too hard to lose weight and wanted to keep it off. Another breadstick would be nice, but she was going to have self-control and stop at one. She turned to look at Elizabeth when she heard her name. Elizabeth said, Ill tell Mallory. Bye, Mom. Tell me what? She said youll need alternations on your bridesmaid dress since you lost weight. I will, too, because they always order these dresses a size too large. Heather put her glass down. Then you have to pay for alternations. Its a scam. I know. I tried to tell the one doing the ordering, I needed a size smaller. Hopefully, her

dress wouldnt need shortening too. Besides alternation expenses, she and Heather were throwing a bridal shower for Elizabeth. She was going to be the matron of honor, so shed be expected to also give a bachelorette party. And she planned on getting an expensive wedding gift for Elizabeth and Derek. After all, shed been friends with her since they were in elementary school. Maybe she could get an extra job. Tutoring paid well. She should know. She had to do tutoring plus teach in order to pay all the bills while Toby was in law school. Elizabeth jabbed a fork in her salad. Mallory, if you have this surgery, you should make Toby pay for it. He owes you after all you did for him. I know you refused alimony. She swallowed a mouthful of pasta. I dont want him to pay for it. We arent married. And once I mentioned getting my nose done when his sister told me she hoped Josh didnt get my nose. When I joked that I could sell a kidney to get money for a nose reduction, Toby said I should find a plastic surgeon who needed a kidney.

Heather frowned. Thats terrible. Actually we all laughed. It seemed funny at the time. She shouldnt have shared this because it made Toby seem insensitive. He wasnt. Well, that wasnt totally true. He hadnt thought how hurt shed be when he had his affair. Do you two have any plans? Elizabeth asked. I told Derek Id make this a short girls night and meet him at Lowes. We want to pick out all the light fixtures for the house. If you werent my friend, Id be jealous of you. Heather brushed bangs off her forehead. Building a new house and getting married. You do things right. Mallory wasnt envious of Elizabeth, but she worried sometimes about her friend marrying Derek. Something about him didnt ring true. Sure, he attended church regularly but he had a snotty attitude and seemed insincere to her about his faith. If she had to put a label on Derek Anderson, itd be hypocrite. For all Elizabeths negative comments about Toby, he was never a hypocrite. She hoped Elizabeth wasnt making a huge mistake in

marrying Derek. Derek and I are blessed. But we did wait to get married so wed be financially secure. Her cell phone rang and she saw it was Toby. I feel left out, Heather said. Theres no one calling me. Hi. Hows pizza night? she asked Toby. Our son likes his pizza. Mallory, we need to talk sometime soon. About what? I cant talk about it on the phone. Maybe Tuesday evening when were at Joshs soccer practice. Whats wrong? Mallory asked quickly. Is it your job? No, my jobs fine. Well talk soon. I better get back to Josh. And Mallory, Im sorry for a lot of things. Bye. She put her phone on the table, staring at her friends for a moment. Toby, wants to talk to me about something while Joshs at soccer. Elizabeth gave her a thoughtful look. Id make him wait. Dont stay at practice. Tell him you have

to do something with me for the wedding. He probably wants to beg off taking Josh next weekend. Heather nodded. I agree. Youre always available for him. Mallory shook her head. Tobys pretty reliable when it comes to having Josh every Friday and Saturday. I appreciate your concern, but I know exactly what both of you are thinking and not saying. Hes going to tell me hes serious about Samantha and theyre getting married. But thats not it, she said with conviction. What makes you so sure? Heather asked. How could she explain it? She just knew something was terribly wrong from how hed talked to her. His voice sounded the way it did when he told me he wanted a divorce. Sad and hopeless. So whatever it is, I know one thing. Its something big.

Chapter Two Because of the lightning and rain, the coach canceled soccer practice on Tuesday evening. Mallory couldnt believe it. She wanted to talk to Toby and find out what was wrong. Why did it have to storm the night they both went to watch Josh practice? Shed always looked forward to not only watching Josh play but to spending time with Toby. Funny, he seemed more relaxed on soccer night then he ever did when they were married. She guessed Toby could only take her in small doses. After practice they had family night for Josh, so Toby never brought his girlfriend Samantha. They went to Wendys frequently because Josh liked their kids meal with chicken nuggets and apple slices. Fortunately, he also loved pizza, so sometimes they went to eat at Jac & Dos, one of the oldest pizza restaurants in northwestern Ohio. She sighed, remembering how important this place had been to them while Toby was in law school.

They couldnt afford much, but theyd splurged once a week to eat at Jac & Dos. Sure, it wasnt a fancy high priced restaurant, but they served the best pizza in Findlay. Their crust was thin but if you asked for a thicker crust, you got it. Her mouth watered at the thought of their cheese garlic pizza. They could still go out for dinner. Shed suggest it when she called Toby to tell him about the canceled practice. She glanced at the kitchen clock and decided to try him at work first. After eating we can come back here to talk while Josh watches one of his Disney movies. When she heard Tobys voice, her heart started beating faster. Why couldnt God have answered her prayers about staying married to him? Even after hed told her he wanted a divorce, she had faith it wouldnt happen. As a Christian, she felt divorce was wrong. But Tobys affair with his law partner, Lacey, had torn her apart and she finally had agreed to the divorce. Hi, Toby. Im glad I caught you. Soccer practice has been called off. I figured theyd cancel it. He laughed. I bet Joshs disappointed. He loves to play in the rain.

And the mud. I was thinking we still could have our weekly family night and I cant. Samantha called earlier and I told her Id drive her to the hospital. Her mom was in an accident. Samanthas car is still in the shop. Is her mom going to be okay? I think so but they want to do more tests and keep her for a couple of days. Tell Samantha her moms in my prayers. She hated Samantha was Tobys girlfriend, but she hoped her mother wouldnt have severe injuries. If Toby hadnt joined the fitness club, he never wouldve met Samantha. Well, their paths might have crossed eventually in the courtroom. She worked at the gym while attending law school. Being in awesome shape, Samantha apparently used the gyms machines. You could drop her off and we can meet at a nearby restaurant. Im sorry, Mallory. When it kept raining, I figured practice would be called off so I made plans to see a client. Im going to do that while Samantha visits her mom. She wasnt going to wait another night to find

out what news Toby had planned on giving her at the soccer fields. I thought you had something important to tell me tonight. It can wait. In fact, I shouldnt have mentioned it yet to you. Well talk as soon as I have enough information to explain it. Great, Sunday might be the earliest shed get to talk to him about whatever was happening in his life. She picked Josh up on Sunday mornings for church. Toby only went to church on Christmas and Easter with them. Could you give me a hint what its about? Josh stood by her and pulled on her arm. Mommy, Im hungry. When are we going to eat? I heard what Josh said. Ill let you feed our growing boy. Tell him hi for me. I have to go. After Toby hung up, she glanced at her cozy kitchen, remembering how three years ago theyd remodeled it together. They had replaced the old kitchen carpet with a lovely hardwood floor. The new cabinets were a bleached wood with beige granite counters. Their only disagreement occurred when she insisted on white kitchen appliances and

Toby wanted stainless steel ones. Thirty minutes later, Josh ran to open the door for Heather. Shed called before Mallory had started cooking to see if it was okay to drop in and bring pizza. While Heather got the plates out of the cupboard, Mallory poured the drinks. Coke for Heather, milk for Josh and water for her. Shed love to have a Coke but the pizza alone had enough calories without adding more. Heather sat down and opened the pizza box. She placed two slices on a plate, passing it to Josh. Come eat with us again, Heather, Josh said. I like you sitting in Daddys chair. Her poor little boy. Itd been several months since the divorce, but obviously Josh still missed his daddy sitting at the table with them. She prayed quickly and silently, Dear Lord, please help Josh to adjust to our divorce. Heather smiled at Josh. I dont like to eat pizza alone, and you two appreciate good food. She nodded. We should do this again except

Ill buy the pizza. Hey, Toby said Samanthas mom was admitted to the hospital. She was in a car accident. Theyre keeping her while they do more tests. I hadnt heard about Samanthas mom. Heather took a sip of Coke. I was in surgery for hours. They chatted for a few moments about how much Heather liked being part of the surgical team, but it was hard standing for hours at a time. Josh finished his third piece of pizza. Im stuffed. May I be excused? Yes, you may. Once Josh was parked in front of the TV, Heather turned to Mallory. Josh looks so much like Toby except for his hair being a lighter shade of blond. Tobys hair was that light at that age. It darkened later in high school. Joshs so cute. Hell be a ladies man someday. Thats scary. She laughed. I dont think I want Josh to grow up.

My sister dreads the teenage years, but you both have lots of time. Hows Kari feeling? Heathers sister was expecting her second child in June. She has the usual bouts of exhaustion that comes with pregnancy, but shes been healthy. Mallory wiped pizza sauce off her lower lip. I wanted another baby but Toby didnt. Is everything okay with Toby? Heather asked. I know you were worried about him. Since practice was canceled, I asked him on the phone. He said it could wait. His voice didnt sound hopeless like it did on Friday night. But I know something has changed in his life or is about to. Im sure you two will get some adult time together and get to talk about it. Heather paused for a moment. Guess who I saw today at the hospital? She broke off a piece of crust and said, Let me see. It must be someone I know. You need to narrow it down a bitfemale or male? A handsome male and he asked about you.

Geez, dont keep me in suspense. Who was it? Reverend Jeremy Turner. And hes still single. Shed gone out with Jeremy once or twice before hed entered the seminary. Funny thing, she shouldve been thrilled at Jeremys interest in her. From the time shed been a little girl, she had wanted to grow up to be a teacher and a ministers wife. But shed fallen in love with handsome Toby with his sexy piercing gray eyes and his dark blond hair. At one time, hed smiled at her as if shed been the only woman in the room for him. Did you tell him Im divorced? I doubt hell want to date me now. Heather nodded. Dont get mad but I gave him your phone number. This might be your chance to be a ministers wife. I dont think that hed ask for your number if he thought you being a divorced woman could be a problem. She shrugged. Ill talk to him if he even calls, but Im not sure about dating again. What if I fall in love? It doesnt seem right for me to get married a

second time. Even though my first marriage failed because of Tobys adultery, doesnt mean I should try again. I never told you or Elizabeth but when I went out with Jeremy, I kept thinking maybe God did have Jeremy in mind to be my husband. I mean I had prayed to be a ministers wife, but I had already met Toby at college. Jeremy hadnt started college and I was already in my second year. At the time Jeremy being two years younger seemed like a big deal to me. Id forgotten hes younger than us. But its not important now with you both being in your thirties. There was another stupid reason which I hadnt wanted to mention back then. Because I was self-conscious about my big nose, I noticed Jeremys. I figured if we actually got married someday, our kids would have big noses like us. What if God had meant for her to marry Jeremy and she hadnt listened to Him? But out of her marriage to Toby, shed been blessed with a wonderful son. I think hes attractive and he has so much

charisma. I bet a lot of women in his congregation would love to go out with him. Heather wiped her lips with a napkin. Jeremy told me how he called you a week before your wedding. She laughed. I was afraid to tell you and Elizabeth about his phone call. It was a big surprise to hear from him and an even bigger one when he asked me if I was sure that I didnt want to be a ministers wife. Well, apparently he never got over you. You didnt tell Elizabeth about seeing Jeremy, did you? She took one look at Heathers guilty face and knew she had. Great, you did. Now Elizabeth will try to get me to go out with Jeremy. I wish I had guys interested in me. You have and will again. The right one didnt come along yet. Heather sighed. Thanks for not mentioning my broken engagements. Im thinking of trying one of those online dating services. What do you think? A teacher at my school did online dating and she ended up marrying a guy she met on the Internet. Theyve been happily married for almost

three years. Would you sometime help me pick a photo to post? Maybe Heather wouldnt need to spend money and sign up for online dating. She wondered if Heather could be interested in dating Jeremy herself. Her friend had definitely noticed how attractive Jeremy was today. She wouldnt mention the possibility now but definitely would steer Heather in Jeremys direction. Sure. I have some cute pictures of you. We can do it tonight. Itll be fun. Heather grinned. If you ever change your mind about going out, you might try signing up on a dating site too. Hey, did you and Elizabeth dream up this online dating to get me interested in it? She wouldnt put it pass Elizabeth to put Heather up to it. No, its not a ploy to get you signed up. I want to meet someone soon. Heather sighed. But Elizabeth has another plan for you. I might as well warn you that shes going to call you soon about

having a dinner party. Shes inviting Jeremy. Why shouldnt you have a fun evening and reconnect with an old friend? Itll be nice to see Jeremy, but he might not be looking for a chance to hook up with me. Just because he asked about me doesnt mean hes interested. Why couldnt her friends let up on the dating issue? Instead they put wasted effort into arranging a party for the sole purpose of fixing her up with Jeremy. They knew that she didnt want to remarry. Heather gave her a broad smile. I bet your great-grandfather is up in heaven rooting for Jeremy to be your next husband. Im not sure hed want me to marry Jeremy now, but since great-grandfather was a minister you could be right. He might think Toby had his chance to be saved during our marriage. One good thing about marrying a minister is prayer and Bible study would be part of your daily life. I think if Toby and I had prayed and read the Bible, wed still be together. Maybe that wouldnt have been

enough, and he might have cheated on me anyhow. I do wonder if I couldve forgiven him for his affair with Lacey if wed still be together. But according to the Bible, I had the right to get a divorce because Toby committed adultery. Heather stood and walked to the dishwasher. You were so broken when you found out about the affair. I think its better that you two decided to get divorced. And now Toby is already interested in Samantha. Im hoping Josh will adjust soon to the divorce. Its been hard on my little boy. She paused for a moment, wishing Toby had been faithful and theyd still be married for their son. But Im happy that I can do something about my nose. I cant believe how Elizabeth and I never suspected you were self-conscious about your nose. Mallory watched Heather put Joshs plate and hers in the dishwasher. I didnt want to draw attention to my nose. And there wasnt any point to me talking about it when I didnt have the money to

do anything about it. I told my mom before I went to college how I wish I could have something done to my nose. She told me that I was beautiful just the way I was. Of course, right after that, she said how outward beauty was valued too much and how inner beauty was the most important thing. Heather closed the dishwasher. I still dont think you need rhinoplasty done but if you go ahead with it, Ill loan you the money. Youll need your money to get your masters in educational administration. Dont you still want to be a principal? She would never borrow from a friend but appreciated Heathers offer. Thats sweet of you but Ive put becoming a principal on the back burner. Josh is little yet and I like having the summers off so I can be home with him. I admire you for teaching at a private Christian school. I know the pay is considerably less than what youd make at a public school. If you ever need any money, let me know. Thanks, Heather. She grinned. I might take you up on your offer if everything we need to do

for Elizabeths wedding costs too much. When is your appointment with Dr. Whitman? This Friday. Someone canceled their appointment so I could get in sooner. I take it as a sign that Im doing the right thing. I was afraid Id have to wait too long for an appointment. Plastic surgerys popular these days. Liposuction, tummy tuck, chin implants, lip enlargement, breast implants Maybe I should have a boob job. Heather looked down at her chest. Im so flat. You arent flat. You dont need to change anything. She squeezed Heathers arm. And breast implants pose some risks that can lead to complications. Okay, Doctor. Mallory rolled her eyes. Well, just because youre a nurse doesnt mean you know everything. Heather grinned. Nurses know more than doctors. I hope Friday comes fast and not just because of my appointment. I need to talk to Toby. Shed

asked her mom to watch Josh while she went to her appointment. Her mom could entertain Josh until Toby came to pick him up for the weekend. If possible, shed tried to get home in time to catch Toby before he left with Josh. She needed to find out what was going on. And it better not involve Samantha. She didnt want to hear about her exs girlfriend. Especially when she had no one special in her life.

Chapter Three Dr. Seth Whitmans office was located in Toledo so Mallory left on Friday as soon as the school buses left the parking lot. She threw her briefcase on the seat and before getting into her Honda, she waved to her mom and Josh. Her moms hair shone bright blonde in the sunlight. I cant get used to my fifty-three-year-old Mom being a blonde. Her mom had done what a lot of women do when they start getting a lot of gray hair; she switched her natural hair color of brown to blonde. When I get to be that age, I cant imagine becoming a blonde. Ill either just go gray or color my hair its natural brown color. She was grateful to her mom for leaving work early and getting Josh at school, so she could leave before rush hour traffic. According to Map Quest, she should allow forty minutes to get to the doctors. Thirty-five minutes later, she saw the sign with Dr. Whitmans name on it in front of an impressive

building with four colossal white columns. As Mallory pulled in a vacant spot between a Mercedes-Benz car and a Honda Pilot SUV, she felt maybe it was a mistake seeing a plastic surgeon. Here she was parking her dented Honda with 225,000 miles on it next to costly vehicles. Obviously, she should get a new car instead of a brand new nose. A couple of weeks ago, Toby went with them to Joshs game and when hed rolled down the window, the handle had fallen off in his hand. Hed said, Mallory, you need to get a better car. It wont hurt you to make car payments for once. With a quick door slam, she decided to concentrate on the reason she had to spend lots of money on plastic surgery. She could drive her clunker for another year. Getting a new nose would be worth the exorbitant price. A fireplace was in the two-story luxurious entry room. Elegant chairs, lamps, and two white loveseats furnished the room. As she filled out her medical form, she glanced at the walls. She

squinted her eyes and saw a framed article with the headline Top Doctor in Rhinoplasty Surgery. She leaned closer and read, Due to his ability to sculpt a Natural Look, Doctor Seth Whitman is the number one choice among both physicians and patients in northern Ohio. She smiled. Nothing like tooting your own credentials but reassuring to see a recent newspaper article telling how Whitman was the best in his field. A blonde opened a door and glanced at her. Mallory Harrington, she said. Mallory stood, noticing the womans perfect features. Had the doctor made his nurse look like a Barbie doll at her request, or had she been born beautiful? Mallory said hello before following her to the consultation room. Once both were seated on comfortable chairs, the woman smiled. Im Dena. Im Dr. Whitmans assistant. Did Dr. Whitman hire his staff according to their appearances or their skill? She wondered

because the receptionist and Dena both had small noses. Okay, maybe she was being ridiculous, but she couldnt help being self-conscious about her big nose when it seemed many females had cute diminutive noses. After Dena looked over her medical form, she left to get the doctor. Mallory took a folder out of her briefcase. She might as well start grading the seventh grade book reports. From past experience with Joshs and her medical appointments, she knew it could be a long wait before the doctor came. It was good to be prepared to do schoolwork. Or she spent time reading to Josh. Toby seldom had time to take Josh to any appointments, but it wasnt so bad now that he was older and didnt need all those baby shots. At the sound of a knock on the closed door, she slid the papers back into the report folder and said, Come in. The door opened and a tall man in his thirties walked in. He extended his hand to her. Hi, Im Dr. Whitman. She clasped his hand and liked his firm shake.

I didnt expect you so soon. I was grading papers. He grinned. I can leave and come back later. She stared at his black hair, broad shoulders and perfect smile for a moment. She wondered if his nice straight teeth were the result of wearing braces. Sorry. I meant it as a compliment. Im used to waiting forever in the examining room at other doctors offices. I try to be punctual. I know the patients time is available. What do you teach? Junior high English. Why did Dr. Whitman have to be even hotter in person? She bet he got more women wanting plastic surgical procedures because of his looks. I wish I had an English teacher who looked like you in junior high. She laughed, surprised that he was flirting with her. Do you usually flatter prospective patients? Is this your way of making a nervous woman feel more comfortable before hitting her with the cost? His blue eyes looked amused. Dena, we have

a smart one here. She figured out my technique. Dena muttered, Im not sure whats going on here, but if you want, I can leave early. Of course not. Thanks for getting me back on track. He patted Denas shoulder. I thought there was a reason I kept you around. He turned back to Mallory. I heard you want a nose job. You heard right. Even though hed flirted with her, she bet Dr. Whitman wouldnt try to talk her out of having her nose fixed. Ill tell you about the procedure but Im guessing since youre a teacher, youve already researched it thoroughly. Mallory nodded. I did go to your website and read how you create a natural nose that fits the individuals face. How long does it take for you to do this type of surgery? Typically, rhinoplasty surgery takes one to two hours. Some surgeons make incisions on the outside or the underside of the nose. I prefer to use incisions inside the nose which are hidden. I dont pack the nose like some doctors. I use a special suture to sew the lining back in place instead of

using packing to hold the lining in place. I think this is better for the patient. No packing sounds great. He walked to a desk and picked up a digital camera. I want to photograph you. I use computer imaging so I can show you a reasonable outcome of the procedure you want. Also you can show me what you like and dislike. I want us to be on the same page about what I think will be in your best interest and for you to have a realistic image of what to expect. Not all plastic surgeons use the computer imaging, said Dena. It helps the patient see what can and cant be done surgically. Dr. Whitman nodded. Once the bandages are removed, its too late to discuss expectations. Dena glanced at her watch. If you dont need me, Im going to do some paperwork. Thats fine, Dena. Thanks. Dr. Whitman pointed to a spot in the middle of the room and said, If you could just stand here, Ill get the simulated imaging done to show you what to expect after surgery. It might not be exactly what it

will look like but close. While standing for her photos, she said, I read on your website that it depends on the patients skin. The result is more dramatic if the skin is thinner. Im hoping my skins thin. He smiled. Youre right. Are you trying to get a job here? Hey, thats an idea. I could work here parttime so I can afford this surgery. She shrugged. I realize you arent serious and itd be hard for me to drive here. My sons only five years old. Dr. Whitman gave her a concerned look. Youll have to make sure you dont do any heavy lifting and bending for ten days. That might be hard with an active little boy. His grandparents are taking him for two weeks in June, so Im hoping to schedule it after school. You can take your seat again. Well take a look at the images in a moment. While he was working on the computer software, she said, Im in a wedding He looked up from the monitor on the computer

software, and interrupted her, Not your wedding, I hope. Why would he ask that? Maybe he was thinking she shouldnt have surgery too close to her own wedding. Its not mine. My friends getting married in August and Im her matron of honor. Shes worried that I wont be presentable. I told her Im sure the swelling will be gone by then if I have the surgery in June. She laughed. You know how some brides are. I told her Id be sure to ask you. Swelling improves anywhere from one to six weeks following closed rhinoplasty. You can minimize this time by sleeping with your head elevated for several nights after nose surgery. Good. Ill tell Elizabeth. Thats my friend. Another friend Heather has been engaged twice but both times broke it off before the weddings could take place. Heathers biggest fear is having her marriage end in divorce. When she gets married, its for life. She exhaled deeply. And thats what I thought but it didnt work out and now Im divorced. Why could she never be quiet?

I was engaged once but she broke it off. It was good that it happened before we married. He pointed to the wall where he had side and front views of what her nose would like after surgery. Okay, here we go. Our goal in rhinoplasty is to provide a more balanced, refined, natural look without compromising function. The nose is shorter in length. See how the small hump on your bridge is gone. Your nose is thin so doesnt need to be narrowed. She stared at the images. She looked truly beautiful for the first time in her life. You need to keep your expectations realistic. Any nose job should simply enhance you natural facial features and emphasize your unique look. There is no perfect nose. Dont be afraid to speak up if you dont like something. Are you kidding? I love what youve done. She turned her head and her eyes met Dr. Whitmans. Thank you. Im excited and its going to be hard to wait until schools out to get my nose done. You were blessed with an incredible talent as a plastic surgeon.

He grinned. Usually I get this response after the surgery and when the splint comes off. Could you email me these images? I want to show Elizabeth and Heather. And my mom. My friends dont think I need to get it done, but once they see the after photos, Im sure theyll be convinced. Yes, I can do that. Its a big decision so its good you want to wait until June. Something occurred to her about being put to sleep during her surgery. Do I have to be put to sleep for this type of cosmetic surgery? Ive never had surgery. The reason I ask is because Im sure you noticed I talk too much. I hate to think what I might say while under anesthesia. He chuckled. So youre afraid you might mention some deep, dark secret. Well, nothing too exciting but Im sure I would say something lame. Shed probably tell something personal about Toby or maybe shed blab about a few of the dumb things she did as a child. She could cover a lot of years while asleep for a couple of hours during surgery.

I prefer intravenous sedation for my patients. Some surgeons prefer general anesthesia where a tube is placed into the windpipe to enable the patient to breathe during cosmetic surgery. With the IV sedation theres less nausea, less bruising, and its easier to shape the patient's nose to their face without the general anesthesia tube in the way. Its similar to a deep state of sleep walking and the patient breathes for herself. Do you have any other questions? She shook her head. Im good. Ill take you to our office manager, Sharon. Shell discuss the cost with you. Discuss, she said in a questioning voice. I better warn you that negotiating is my thing. I love to wheel and deal. When shed gone with Toby to buy a new mattress set, shed gotten the sales person to lower the price by several hundred dollars. Toby had been impressed. Okay, English teacher. I used the wrong word. I meant Sharon will tell you the cost. I bet you were on the debate team in school. Sorry. I dont usually give the physician a

hard time like this. Dont be. Im glad you arent shy. Its important for the patient to ask questions. He paused, his eyes narrowed as though he was thinking something through. Mallory, you shouldnt do nose surgery to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Well, Ive wanted this surgery for a long time. Ive never liked my nose. Whenever I walk into a room, I wonder if people are staring at my nose. Thats not a good thing when your career involves being in front of people all the time. In a pleasant, brisk manner, Dr. Whitman said, Im happy you came today. Email me your address and Ill get those photos to you soon. My website has a spot where you can contact me by email. It might be fun to fix her plastic surgeon up with Heather, she thought. Are you dating anyone now?

Chapter Four Her cell phone rang, saving him from giving her an immediate answer. Why did she ask if he was dating anyone? Why did Mallory Harrington have to ask such a personal question? Shed been so adorable with her questions and comments about the surgery. He shouldnt care about this new patients life, but shed definitely touched a nerve inside him. Her nosiness couldnt be because she wanted to date him. Unless she wanted to make her ex jealous by going out with him. He rather doubted that. She didnt seem the type of woman who was into playing games. In fact, he wished they had met under different circumstances. Mallory Harrington was one attractive and intriguing woman. He hadnt been interested in any female since his fiance broke their engagement. Mallory dropped her phone into her purse and frowned. Obviously, she hadnt liked what the caller had said.

That was my mother. Toby, my ex, picked Josh up early for the weekend. I cant believe for once he was early. I wanted to talk to him. She shrugged. I guess itll have to wait. He might as well ask her a personal question now. Did you want to talk to him about the surgery? I can get the pictures emailed to you this weekend so you can show him. No, I dont want to tell him. I want to see if he notices. She grinned. If he doesnt I might ask for a refund. Ive never given refunds because I only have satisfied patients. He sat back and stared at her for a moment. Ive done revision rhinoplasty but not on my patients. Other surgeons patients from all over have asked me to perform secondary nose surgery when theyre unhappy with their original surgery. I bet they wish they went to you in the first place. Many times the main request by these patients is to make their nose look natural again. She had good questions and didnt seem to be in a hurry to

get home. Would it hurt to ask her if shed like to get a cup of coffee with him? It wouldnt be considered a date, but just a business conversation in case she needed more information before scheduling her surgery. He felt it was important, especially since he thought she was charming, and he didnt want to give her any false hope that the surgery would make a drastic change in her life. Shed still be the same person inside. She raised her eyebrows. My mom called before you got to answer my dating question. I know that was rude on my part to even ask such a personal question, but I had a purpose in mind. My friend, Elizabeth, is having a dinner party. The main reason for this is to get me interested in someone I knew before I married Toby. I thought you might like to come and meet Heather. Shes a surgical nurse at Blanchard Valley Hospital. I think you two might have a lot in common. It wasnt the greatest idea to mingle with a patient and her friends socially, but his social life had been nonexistent lately. And it wasnt like he was taking Mallory out on a date. Are you sure

itll be okay with your friends? Yes, Im positive. Youll be doing me a big favor. I dont mind seeing Jeremy again but just as a friend. Hes the guy Elizabeth and Heather are hoping Ill want to date. I figure youll be a buffer, so all the attention wont be on hooking me up with someone Im not going to be interested in. I dont plan on getting married again, so I dont want to bother with dating. She couldnt bear a second divorce if things didnt work out again. Your friends must think highly of this guy. She shrugged. Jeremys a great guy and hes a minister. My friends seem anxious to pair me off with the perfect guy. They feel sorry for me because I put my ex through law school and then he cheated on me. What kind of law does he practice? I might need a lawyer someday. Criminal domestic law. She grinned at him. Hey, I hope you arent charging me by the minute. He smiled back at her. With some patients, I feel like charging more, but you dont fit in that

category. After you talk to Sharon, how about going to Starbucks? Theres one down the street. That way if you have anymore questions about nose surgery, you can ask away. And another reason to accept is you should get to know me better before I meet your friends. Over coffee you might realize Im not suitable for Heather and you can take your invitation back. Id like a cup of coffee, but Im sure I wont renege on my invite. He stood. Ill introduce you to Sharon now. After he walked Mallory to Sharons office, he chatted for a few minutes before leaving for his room. He sighed as he leaned back his chair. He was done for the day since Mallory was his last appointment. Had he just asked a patient out for a cup of coffee? What was he thinking? Well, shed invited him to a dinner party. That was a first in his office too. Actually going to a coffeehouse with Mallory could be considered business since theyd probably talk about her surgery. He chewed on his

bottom lip and thought how the dinner party might be a stretch to classify it as a business opportunity. Okay, so big deal. He was going to see Mallory again. If she did go ahead with the surgery in June, hed be able to ask her out on a date later in the summer. Hed never asked a patient out before because hed always wanted to maintain a professional relationship. That wasnt true. Mallory was the first patient hed ever wanted to see outside the office. *** He realized hed made a mistake having coffee with Mallory. He liked her too much which wasnt appropriate for a patientdoctor relationship. Add to that, he thought she was beautiful. Her dark brown hair shone in the bright sunshine that streamed in through the window by their table. Her brilliant green eyes mesmerized him. Incredible eyes with such a sparkle to them that he loved staring at them. Her warm smiles got to him too. Hed noticed in the office Mallory had a tiny scar

that looked like a dimple when she smiled. Hed wondered then what had caused the scar but hadnt wanted to ask her. Maybe he should tell her that she could skip the nose surgery. Mallorys face had so much character with her strong cheekbones, overwhelming smile, beautiful eyes and personality that an imperfect nose was of small importance. Thanks. This is nice to relax after a rough day with seventh graders. She took a sip of coffee. And I love the smell of coffee. When I was growing up, I always woke up to the aroma of coffee brewing. My mom had to have coffee first thing in the morning. She wasnt a morning person and needed her jolt of caffeine. How about you? Do you get up at the crack of dawn? He bet she looked cute even in the early daylight hours. I usually dont have any trouble getting up. Should he talk to her about not having the surgery? Sure, he should. It was his obligation. Mallory, I know Sharon put your name on the

calendar for your surgery, but Im not so sure you need to have anything done. Look at Sarah Jessica Parker. She has a strong nose. But my nose is bigger than hers. You might think your nose is imperfect because of the size, but I do think it gives your face character. Well, I can do with a little less character on my face. Your nose is large but its aristocraticlike Princess Diana. And look what happened to her. Prince Charles loved Camilla. She snapped her fingers. Guess what? Camilla has a small nose. But Princess Diana was considered beautiful. Like you, he wanted to say but didnt. She sighed. I bet youre afraid I wont be happy with my appearance because I still wont have the perfect small nose. I understand that you can only do so much, but itll definitely be a big improvement over what I have to live with now. Im happy to do your surgery but if you should change your mind, Ill understand.

She gave him a warm smile. Youre stuck with me. Im not changing my mind on this. I loved seeing the imaging of what Ill look like after surgery. Mallory was definitely serious about having rhinoplasty. Part of him was glad because hed be seeing her again several times, for sure. But he wasnt certain he liked that itd be as his patient. Then Ill see you in June for your surgery. She cleared her throat. What made you decide to become a plastic surgeon? The abrupt question caught him off guard. He thought about that for a moment. I was impressed how plastic surgery made a difference in my sisters appearance. When we were still young, a stray dog came in our backyard and attacked her. Amy had to endure many surgeries. Im so sorry. Im still not sure why the dog went after her instead of me. We were both playing outside. Her cell phone rang. While she pulled it out of purse, his eyes shifted to her mouth. Mallory had full perfect lips. Ideal for kissing. Big oversight

spending time with Mallory outside the office. Now he was noticing her lips. After glancing at the caller ID, Mallory said, Good, its Elizabeth. Ill ask her more about the dinner party. *** I think Ill get a muffin. Would you like one? No, thank you. After Mallory held the cell phone to her ear, she said, Hi, Elizabeth. Whats up? Heather said she told you about the dinner party. I think itll be lots of fun. Dont you? Elizabeth asked. Im looking forward to it. Is it okay if I bring my plastic surgeon? Hes perfect for Heather. Mallory mentioned that fact quickly because she didnt want Elizabeth to assume she was interested in him for herself. You just made my life easier. I was trying to think of someone for Heather. She groaned. Oh no, that means you are

having this dinner party for me to see what a great guy Jeremy is. Cut the dramatics. Elizabeth laughed. You already knew that. Seriously, I think you and Jeremy would make a cute couple. But But youre not interested in Jeremy. Yes, I know. I hear you. You sure you arent falling for your surgeon. Of course not. I just met him. Hey, if hes willing to come, then he must be smitten with you. Maybe hell give you a discount. Itd be nice to get a lower price, but I wouldnt use him like that. She was worried now. Was Dr. Whitman attracted to her? She figured he didnt have anything better to do on a Friday night and just hated to go home to an empty place. When hed asked her to Starbucks, she decided to accept because she wasnt having the weekly dinner with the girls. Also shed already missed Toby, so accepting his coffee invitation delayed her trip home. The house would be so empty without Josh.

Dont be ridiculous. He couldnt think Im interested in him. I mentioned not wanting to date. He can be your backup guy if you dismiss Jeremy as a possible boyfriend. By the way, Jeremys great with kids. Dear Lord, Elizabeths wearing me down by constantly trying to fix me up with someone. Please help her to realize that Im not comfortable with the whole dating thing again. Thank you, Lord, for your blessed help. Oh yeah, what night did you want to have it? Im thinking a week from this Saturday. Does that sound good to you? Its okay with me. You can tell me later where and all the details. She saw Dr. Whitman carrying two muffins to their table. I have to go, Elizabeth. Ill tell Dr. Whitman hes invited. After a quick bye, she set her phone on the table and said, Elizabeths happy to include you in her plans. I didnt want to eat alone and these muffins are good for you. They have berries in them and are low calorie. Not that you need to lose any

weight, but Ive heard Amy say often enough how the other muffins have too many calories for her to enjoy. Dr. Whitman handed her a muffin. His fingers touched hers before releasing the muffin. Just this slight gesture suddenly seemed too special. What was she doing having coffee with her doctor? It occurred to me while I waited in line that you need to call me Seth at the dinner. I know your friends realize you came to see me about plastic surgery, but what about your minister friend? He wants me to call him Seth. Things were getting personal, but really would it matter if she called him by his first name instead of Dr. Whitman. And he was thoughtful to think ahead about how she should introduce him to Jeremy. She grinned. It might be weird to call you doctor instead of by your first name, especially since its with my friends and not a business event. Ill call you Seth and please call me Mallory. He removed the muffin from the paper holder. Do we need to have a story ready on how we met?

Her grin widened. What story did you have in mind?

Chapter Five Hey, stories should be up your alley. Youre the English teacher. I dont know how to say we met. But Jeremy might not ask. If he should ask what you do, just say youre a surgeon. And dont offer any additional information. Geez, she couldnt believe how bossy she sounded. And she just met Dr. Whitmanor Seth. He swallowed a mouthful of muffin. How about we pretend that we dont know each other? She raised her eyebrows. We dont know each other. Sure, weve met as doctor and patient. And you can look at my patient information form I filled out to learn more about meby the way, you know how women lie a bit when they answer the weight question on the medical forms, well, I didnt. Just so you know. She didnt want Seth to think she was one of those women who lied about their age and weight. Although she had lied once about her weight for her drivers license, and

afterwards had felt so guilty. Toby had told her that was ridiculous since shed been pregnant at the time and wouldnt be that weight for long. She hadnt believed him so had called Elizabeth. For once, shed agreed with Toby that no one would expect her to put the pregnancy weight on her license. I never thought you lied about your weight. She frowned. You looked at my weight. I might have glanced at it. He gave her an embarrassed look. Okay, I did look at it. But you have a nice weight. I mean youre a perfect size. I think you are too. Your weight, I mean. Back to explaining how I was invited She broke off a piece of muffin. I think youre enjoying this whole situation. He chuckled. Its not everyday that a patient on her first visit invites me to a dinner party. Youre right. Im surprised I did but youre single and Heathers single. Like I mentioned, they might not be so occupied with fixing me up with Jeremy if you go. Youll be someone new, and Im sure youll enjoy meeting my friends.

We can have Heather introduce me to Jeremy. Since shes a nurse, hell assume thats why I was invited. Okay, but I dont want to lie. She grinned. Especially to a minister. You better warn your friends to keep quiet. I have a feeling they might let it slip. She nodded. I better. Elizabeths pretty chatty. I did have an ulterior motive in going to this dinner party, but now I might not be able to capitalize on it. Okay, you have my attention. Whats the motive? I was going to pass out business cards, and tell them Ill give $100 off the price of any plastic surgery they have. He couldnt be serious. Could he? She assumed he had plenty of patients all the time. She stared at him, noticing his amused eyes. He was teasing her. Shed play his game. I want a business card and $100 off my surgeryor wait, I invited you to this event so I should get more off.

I guess its negotiable. She laughed. Fess up. Obviously, you were kidding about passing out cards about your practice. You mentioned having a story ready to avoid telling them the truth. You caught me. He paused to sip his coffee. So where is this dinner thing? I dont think Elizabeth knows yet. Ill call you when she decides. Maybe she should talk Heather up to Seth. Her friend deserved someone like him. He seemed like a super guy. Too bad she couldnt date him. And he was easy on the eyes. Actually he was even better looking than the photo on his website. She had a cute photo of Heather in her purse. She pulled her wallet out of her bag and flipped to a picture. I thought you might like to see what Heather looks like. He leaned across the table. Pointing to Heather, she said, Shes the one with black hair. And Elizabeths the blonde. Thats a nice shot of all of you. The hiking trail in the background looks familiar to me. Was it taken at Kelleys Island?

She nodded. We like the trails there. Heathers a great hiker. Do you like to hike? I do. My family used to go camping a lot when I was a child. And we went to Kelleys Island. He took another look at the photo. I heard they built a new boardwalk to the North Pond Nature Preserve. Ill have to go and check it out sometime. Were you tent or RV campers? For a few years, we roughed it and had a tent. Later though my parents did get an Apache popup trailer. Did you go camping as a child? My mom and I never camped, but I went a few times with Heather and her family. Toby and I went once before Josh was born. She glanced at her watch. I better head home. Thank you for the coffee and muffin. Youre welcome. I enjoyed talking with you. His blue eyes twinkled. Youre an interesting person, Mallory. And you werent even under anesthesia. I thought you said I wouldnt be put to sleep for my surgery. You wont be. I couldnt resist a little

medical humor. Ill get those pictures emailed to you soon. In the meantime, if you think of any questions give me a call. She crumbled up her napkin and shoved it in the empty cup. Maybe she should apologize for being so pushy. Im sorry if I was a little too assertive about the dinner party. If you decide not to go, I wont hold it against you. She smiled at him. Ill still have you do my nose job. I want to go to the party. It sounds like fun. *** The phone rang just as Mallory finished grading a stack of papers at the kitchen table late Saturday morning. Upon answering it, she noticed Tobys voice was upbeat. Whatever had caused him to sound remorseful and urgent when speaking to her over a week ago wasnt present now. What had changed? Hopefully, he was calling because he wanted to get together to tell her what was going on in his life. And it better not be about Samantha. Why couldnt his girlfriend break up

with him and instead find a nice single guy to see without an ex-wife and child? It was too soon for Toby to be serious about someone. Didnt he care about Joshs feelings? He needed time to adjust to his parents not living together. Adjusting to another woman in his dads life was overwhelming. Toby said, So is it okay if I come over this afternoon while Joshs at the movies with Billy? Mallory missed the part where Toby had said what movie Billys mother planned on taking them to, but she didnt see any problem. In the past, Billys parents had always taken the boys only to suitable G rated movies. Sure. Id like that. Ive been anxious to hear your news. I was disappointed I missed you last night. We couldve gone and got coffee or something while Mom watched Josh. How about I bring your favorite ice cream? Visions of scoops of chocolate almond ice cream from Dietsch Brothers appeared in her head. But she should refuse. If his news wasnt good, shed get upset and eat too much. She wanted to keep her weight off so said, Thanks but Ill pass.

Im watching my calories. Hey, I noticed you lost weight. I meant to mention it last Sunday. Hearing Toby say that hed realized shed looked smaller made her loss all worth it. I lost fifteen pounds. What time do you think youll be here? Im dropping Josh off at Billys at two, so will be at your place around two twenty. Did you and Josh go out for breakfast this morning? Shed thought of calling to see if she could join the boys for their usual Saturday morning at IHOP. Not only had she wanted to spend time with Toby, but she missed her little guy. No, Josh wanted to stay here and watch cartoons. I fixed my famous omelets. I always loved your omelets. He chuckled. Thats not true. What about the time you said I put too much pepper on the eggs? Plus you didnt like the cheese I used. You did put too much pepper on it that time. And I didnt like my eggs loaded with parmesan

cheese. You must have used half the jar. But I understood why you sprinkled the omelet with parmesan cheese when you were making me a pizza egg. Its good Josh appreciates my cooking since hes here every weekend. What did that mean? Did Toby resent having their son on the weekends? When they were getting the divorce, hed insisted on having Josh on a weekly basis and sharing custody. They both decided Tobys law practice required long hours during the week, so Friday and Saturday was the best arrangement. But that was before Samantha had entered the picture. I guess you seeing Samantha on weekends is being cramped with Josh around. Did you fix her breakfast too? No, shes not here. And to put your active mind to rest, she never spends the night. I know how you feel about that and I agree. Also we arent in a serious relationship. We havent known each other that long. Remember? Yeah, she remembered. She felt socked in her gut when she learned he was dating before the ink

was dry on their divorce papers. She hadnt expected him to start seeing someone so quickly. After Toby mentioned meeting Samantha to her, shed driven the next day to the fitness center to see what the new woman in Tobys life look like. Shed gone during her planning period so Toby wouldnt be there. Obviously, it would be bad to be checking out Tobys new romantic interest while he was there. He might think she was being a bit obsessive to want to see Samantha already. Okay, more than a bit. Fortunately, she observed Samantha while she led a Pilates class. No one had been the wiser. And you two are still in a relationship. I give it another month. He ignored her prediction. Are you dating anyone? How should she answer? She had coffee with Seth but they werent dating. It might be nice to mention it though, so Toby would know other guys thought she was attractive. I had coffee with someone last night. Its about time. Whats his name?

Seth. Before you get too excited, Im going to fix him up with Heather. I dont feel right about dating after being married, even though Im divorced. I better get off here and fix Josh a little lunch before the movie. Ill see you soon so we can talk more. After a weak good-bye, she replaced the phone. She shouldve kept her mouth shut. Toby got off the phone in a hurry because he didnt want to hear a lecture about his infidelity. But she was also going to mention doing more family things together even though they were divorced. Toby wouldve been happier to hear she was seeing someone. She wasnt about to lie and say she planned on seeing Seth a lot. Well, actually she would have to make several office visits after surgery, but that was on a professional basis. They had some good times together. Cozy moments of sharing their love for each other. Did Toby ever miss their life together? Apparently, he hadnt been happy. Instead of coming home to her, hed had an affair with Lacey. Shed had many

sleepless nights wondering how he couldve stooped so low. When shed questioned him about his affair, he said without meeting her eyes, Its hard to explain. Things werent right between us way before I had the affair. She glanced at the wall clock. It was eleventhirty. Plenty of time to bake Tobys favorite cookies if she had enough oats and raisins. She needed to stay busy so she wouldnt worry about why he needed to talk to her. After she saw she had enough of the necessary ingredients, she felt happy to be doing something positive for Toby. Divorced or not, they had a son, and they needed to keep things cordial between them. Hed hurt her deeply, and shed gone through months of emotional lows with feeling anger and other times great sadness. But she worried a lot about Josh and wanted him to see that his divorced parents were able to get along. Toby can eat some cookies here and Ill send some home with him. She opened the cupboard to get a mixing bowl.

Hopefully, Samantha never baked oatmeal raisin cookies. That was her thing. Before Toby arrived, she needed to say her daily prayer to God to watch over the father of her child. Had she made a mistake in marrying Toby? Maybe shed still be married if Jeremy had been her husband. God was clear on what was expected of a married couple. He meant for marriage to be a lifetime commitment. His plan for marriage was stated in Malaci 2:16: I hate divorce, says the Lord God of Israel. But she couldnt imagine not having Josh...their son was a blessing Even though, she could remarry because Matthew 5:32, clearly said it was allowed when one committed fornication like Toby had, she wasnt up to trying again. A second marriage wasnt going to happen even though her Christian friends seemed to think itd be fine for her. She feared a second marriage might fail, and she couldnt bear another divorce. Apparently, she hadnt been a good enough wife for Toby to remain faithful.

Chapter Six Mallory wore a new pair of dark jeans with a green and white striped fitted top. Shed enjoyed buying a few new clothes in smaller sizes. She was also glad that her hair was long enough to pull back in a short ponytail. Toby used to tell her how cute she looked with her hair worn like that. Funny, she thought her nose looked bigger without any hair around her face. She put the cookies on a pretty blue plate. The cinnamon she put in the cookies had been a smart touch. Nothing smelled better than cinnamon baking in the oven. The aroma of spices lingered in the air. Tapping the countertop, she became impatient. What else could she do while waiting for Toby? Maybe make coffee. She picked up the pot and filled it with filtered cold water. After measuring the grounds, she decided to start brewing the coffee because Toby would be arriving soon. It was two fifteen and that was one thing about her

ex-husband. He believed in being punctual. What did he want to talk to her about anyhow? Shed told Elizabeth and Heather that it wasnt about him remarrying. She definitely could rule that out since hed just said today his relationship with Samantha wasnt serious. A knock on the front door interrupted her thoughts. Come on in. The doors not locked, she yelled. Toby walked into the kitchen, looking blond and handsome. His eyes went from her face to the cookies. I picked the right day to visit. She smiled. I baked cookies. Would you like coffee with them? Sounds good. Toby paused. Josh asked me today when Im moving back home. Have you mentioned to him thats a possibility? She held the coffeepot in midair as she stared at Toby. Of course not. He does miss us being here together, though. On Tuesday evening, Heather came over and brought pizza. While she sat in your chair, Josh commented how he liked her there. He asked her to come back to eat. Im sure

hed like for us to get back together. He hates seeing your empty chair. I guess thats normal. Kids cant accept it when their parents are divorced. Josh is so little yet so that makes it even harder on him. Once seated at the table with their steaming cups of coffee in front of them, Mallory said, Please tell me what was bothering you when you called me last Friday. I know you said later it was nothing. But at the time, it seemed like something was terribly wrong to me. Toby didnt answer. After a moment he exhaled a deep breath. Im fine but when I talked to you on Friday, I was afraid something was seriously wrong with me. I wasnt feeling well so went to see the doctor. He ordered a battery of tests because of some of my symptoms. I started thinking what if I died without telling you how sorry I was. So that brief apology for causing you pain was my way of covering all bases. Toby had thought he was dying. So the tests came back okay? He nodded. Everything was stress related.

She reached across the table and squeezed his hand. What symptoms caused the doctor to order tests? He shrugged. I overreacted. I had severe pain on my left side. And my blood pressure was high in the doctors office. I was afraid I had heart disease. I can see why you might think that with those symptoms. Ive had stress with my big cases. And Ive been putting in long hours at work. He took a bite of cookie. But I think it was good in a way that I got a scare about my mortality. It got me to thinking. What if something happened to me while Josh is young? So I took out additional life insurance because if I die before he goes to college, itll pay for his education. I should have other money for his needs, but Id rather not worry about his college. I thought your firm gave you a $100,000 policy for a benefit. I guess you dont think thats enough for college. He nodded. I actually increased that policy to

$200,000. I want to make sure money wont be a problem. I appreciate that you want to provide for Josh. What if Toby died without being saved as a Christian? Since hed brought it up about his mortality, it shouldnt hurt for her to ask him to pray for his spiritual conversion. She couldnt bear the thought of Toby not being in heaven and having eternal life. Since you took care of financial matters, how about You have that look in your eye. I knew I shouldnt mention dying to you. Well, your souls important. I can lead you right now in prayer to accept the Lord. He frowned. I heard you praying all the time for me while we were married. Im not a bad person. I think God gave us a brain to use, so I dont think we should hassle Him about every problem we have. But it works for you to pray constantly so thats fine. Should she mention the Bible verse about praying without ceasing to Toby? Actually there

were a lot of verses she could recite to him, but he hadnt listened to her while they were married, so why force the praying issue right now with lots of Biblical reasons. Shed try another approach. I think my prayers helped you get your job. He looked uncomfortable. I thought passing the bar might have helped. Mallory, I do believe in God. Just not the way you do. You believe in God but you dont have a personal relationship with Him. Youre depriving yourself of the joys of being a Christian. Plus just think what impact you can have on Josh if you go to church with us every Sunday. As his father, you can be his spiritual role model. Great, she probably came off sounding too preachy. She knew Toby hadnt liked her efforts to convert him while theyd been married. Hey, he has you for that. And I go to church. Just on Christmas and Easter. He grinned. Ill up it to four times a year. Ill take it. How about you go with us tomorrow? He finished the cookie. You make the best

cookies. Dont change the subject. We can go to church together and afterwards go to Sunday dinner. Or I can fix a home cooked meal for us. We missed our family night on Tuesday. I cant. I already promised Samantha wed spend the day together. She watched him drink his coffee, wondering if he was more serious about Samantha than even he realized. Maybe some other Sunday then. So what brought you here today? Jeff is having legal problems I hope you dont mean Jeff Moore. Jeff and Toby had been fraternity brothers. And one of the groomsmen for their wedding. Thats the one. Jeffs a great guy. A great guy. Obviously, Toby was biased. She hated to criticize his fraternity brother, but shed never approve of Jeff. He became obnoxious when he drank too much. Hed said some off-color comments to her while drunk. Toby had defended his friend because of his condition. She also didnt think much of him owning a casino. What had Jeff

done to need Tobys help as a lawyer? Was it money laundering, tax fraud, embezzlement or something worse? So what does he need a lawyer for? Is he in trouble with the police? Or I guess maybe the FBI? He shook his head. Its nothing like that. Was it for a divorce? She liked Jeffs wife, Peg and hoped it wasnt marriage problems. Shed been one of Pegs bridesmaids. They hadnt been close for years though since the Moores had moved to Las Vegas. A divorce might complicate Jeffs life with the income from his casino. Also custody of their two daughters might be an issue because of his business. Even though she had a low opinion of Jeff, he loved his daughters and was on his best behavior around them. She shrugged. I guess its confidential. If anyone can help Jeff, its you. I need to settle some things for him. He fired his accountant and a few other employees. Theyre threatening to sue him. Ill be leaving for Las Vegas as soon as I finish my present cases.

Toby cant go to church with us, but he can fly to Sin City to help a loser fraternity friend. Maybe she wouldnt send any cookies home with him. Im guessing youll need me to keep Josh on a weekend. Thats no problem. He stood and walked to the counter. While refilling his cup, he said, It might be for a month. Im just not sure. Are you sure its for legal work and not to gamble? Toby had never been a gambler, but maybe he had acquired the gambling habit since their divorce. She knew what a sickness it was since her dad had been a gambling addict. Hed left them to go to Las Vegas for that purpose only. Dont be ridiculous, he said, irritated. Im not your dad. You know I dont gamble. Im going to be working the whole time. Jeff must be in serious trouble. Toby never liked to miss spending time with Josh. Im surprised youd leave Josh for a month. He returned to his chair. Id like Josh to fly to see me over a weekend. She clenched her jaw. Hes too little to fly by

himself. I wasnt planning on him coming by himself. A thrill went through her body because she knew he meant for her to fly to Las Vegas with Josh. Thank you, God, she prayed silently. She wasnt crazy about going to Vegas for a family vacation, but knew it would make Josh happy to spend time with both parents together. Thats good. If I book the flight soon, it wont cost as much. When do you need Ill pay for the tickets for Samantha and Josh. For a moment, her mind couldnt grasp that he hadnt meant for her to go on the plane. Instead Toby wanted his girlfriend of a few months to travel with their son. He frowned. I hope you arent going to put up a fuss about Samantha bringing Josh. She adores him. Her stomach tightened. No way was his girlfriend taking their little son to another state. They barely know each other. Samanthas going to spend time with us after the movie. And Im going to have her come over

more often on the weekends. Hell be fine with her on the plane. Samantha being with Toby more wasnt something she wanted to hear. Obviously, Toby cared for his girlfriend more than hed indicated before. How could Toby move on so quickly with a new relationship? Im sorry but hes not going. For one thing, hes still in school and the trip will tire him out too much. I was planning on a June visit. You know hes going to the lake house with your mom and dad in June. And his birthdays in June. How could she have her surgery if that trip was canceled? Unless Toby planned on keeping Josh longer than a weekend in Vegas which she never wanted to happen. Well, Junes a big month and Joshs birthday is only one day, he said in a sarcastic tone. He can come later and still go visit my parents. A casino is hardly an appropriate place for a child. He drummed his fingers on the table. So youre saying that our son can only spend time with

me in Las Vegas if you are with him? You have to admit that I was being generous to bring him to you. I shouldnt be expected to have him fly for the first time with a stranger. She saw his eyes darken with anger. Okay, Samanthas not actually a stranger, but what does she know about kids? She doesnt have any. Or does she have one hidden somewhere? She doesnt have children, but shes great with kids. I should know because Ive seen her with her nieces and nephews. Mallory bit her lip instead of calling him a liar. Hed said that his relationship with Samantha wasnt serious. Meeting the relatives meant their relationship might become permanent. And now he wanted Samantha in Vegas with him. Was he in love with Samantha? What other reason could he have for making sure she spent time with Josh? Of course, she knew hed get married someday, but was hoping itd be much later. She was not ready for Josh to be part of new family. They hadnt been divorced that long. I dont think its a good idea for Josh to travel to Las Vegas.

He glanced at his watch. I better go. I hope youll change your mind. Please think about it. You know I always take good care of Josh. Her stomach turned when she heard the door shut behind Toby. Hed never planned on inviting her to Vegas. Was spending time with her so undesirable? She wanted Josh to see his parents as being friends and doing activities together. She forgot to give Toby his cookies. If she hurried, maybe she could catch him. Running to the front door, she hit her knee hard on the corner of the end table. She ignored the pain and jerked open the door. Toby stood outside his car, talking on his cell phone. Without a doubt the person on the other end was Samantha...the woman he wasnt serious aboutyeah, right. And she knew then he wasnt getting the cookies. He didnt deserve them. She couldnt stand liars and cheaters.

Chapter Seven Seth zipped his black gym bag. He just played his worst racquetball ever. He hadnt been able to concentrate so he kept missing the ball. It was Mallorys fault. Thoughts of her had been on his mind ever since they had coffee together. He kept wondering what she was doing, and if shed change her mind about the surgery. He looked at his friend, Henry. I cant believe you creamed me. Ill beat you next week. Wow, your game was off today. Whats bugging you? I keep thinking about a new patient I have. Whats the problem? Does she want too much plastic surgery? Seth knew why Henry asked that. Hed complained to his friend how some women requested too many procedures. In certain cases when hed explained to them how more was not better, theyd left his practice to go elsewhere. He

shook his head. No. She only wants rhinoplasty done. The thing is I want to date her. I probably already crossed the line for our patient-doctor relationship. Why do you say that? She came in yesterday for the first visit. I knew I wanted to see her outside the office. I couldnt believe it when she invited me to a dinner party and What are you worried about? Shes interested in you too. Henry grabbed his bag. Come on, lets get something to eat. Seth laughed. I guess youre anxious to eat since Im paying. Henry nodded. You got that right. This doesnt happen often. I usually lose and have to pay for your lunch. How about steaks? Sure, if you have time. Henry surprised him with his request. His friend usually wanted to grab a quick sandwich and get home to his wife. I have time. Rebecca went to her moms for the day. He grinned at Henry. Figures. The days I win,

youre in a rush. Lets go get some steaks. Within forty minutes, they sat in a booth in a fine steak restaurant. Both had plates of steak, vegetables and rice. After Henry swallowed a piece of meat, he said, Thanks, man. This steak hits the spot. For a couple of minutes, Seth watched his friend eat and thought how Rebecca better start fixing steak for Henry. He definitely enjoyed his meat, and Henry could afford to put some weight on his skinny frame. I never finished telling you about Mallory. Whos Mallory? Shes the one who wants rhinoplasty. You mentioned she must be interested in me, but shes not. Henry raised his eyebrows. Is her nose exceptionally big or deformed? I think shes beautiful, but her nose is a little large. He shrugged. She has wonderful cheekbones, the most incredible eyes and shes fun to talk to. I wish we had met somewhere else. Henry poured steak sauce all over his meat.

How soon does she want the surgery? Shes a teacher so its scheduled for early June when the school years finished. I see no problem then. Its almost May and you wont have long to wait. You can date her after she has the surgery. I already took her for coffee after her appointment. I told her that she might think of more questions to ask about the procedure. Also I said she should get to know me better before I went to the dinner party with her friends. She definitely likes you. Or she wouldnt have invited you. He shook his head. Mallorys friends are having this party to fix her up with someone. She wants me to go to create a diversion, so they wont be as focused on fixing her up with this other guy. Shes recently divorced and not interested in dating. Did you tell her youd go? He swallowed a mouthful of broccoli. Sure. Itll give me a chance to spend time with Mallory. You have it bad and you just met her.

I told her she could skip the surgery. I mentioned a couple of famous women to her with larger noses, but she definitely wants to have it done. Does she have any kids? He nodded. A little boy. I talked to Mallory about Princess Diana, too, and how she was considered beautiful with her large nose. That didnt convince her and she said how Prince Charles loved Camilla. Apparently shes selfconscious enough that whenever she walks into a room, she thinks everyone is looking at her. They could be but its not because of her nose. Well, you have two choices. Henry held up two fingers before continuing his explanation. You do the surgery in June. Then on one of her later follow-up appointments, you ask her out. The second choice is you tell her you cant do the surgery because you love the way she looks and want to date her. If I tell her I wont do it, Im afraid shell go to another surgeon to get it done. That would be bad. Youre the best plastic

surgeon in this area for rhinoplasty. After a moment of silence, Henry said, This is where you say that Im the best ENT doctor in our area. He grinned at his friend. Okay, youre the best at putting those PE tubes in kids ears. Henry frowned. Hey, I do more complicated surgeries than tubes. You know that since you were trained in otolaryngology too. What should he do? He felt God had brought Mallory Harrington to him for a reason. It wasnt just for plastic surgery. He wondered if Josh resembled his dad or Mallory. At least, hed get to spend time with her at the get-together her friends were planning. Ill go to the dinner and take it from there. Henry said, If you find out theyre having steak at this party, get me invited. No way. He waved his fork at Henry. You stole Rebecca from me. When I fell for Rebecca, I never thought I had a chance with her. I figured she was waiting for you to pop the question. I mean, why would a beautiful woman be interested in me? I still cant

believe it sometimes that she married me. You two are a great couple. Rebecca had been one of his closest friends for years, so hed been happy to see her fall in love with Henry. Henry wiped sauce off his lips. I told you that personalitys what counts for women. You better work on yours to nab Mallory. Good looks arent everything. *** Mallory doubted if Seth had emailed her photos yet, but she needed to do something to keep her mind off of Tobys request for her to put Josh on an airplane. How could she deny Toby time with his son? But she didnt want Josh going with Samantha to Las Vegas. His first airplane trip should be with his mother. Not Tobys girlfriend. She poured another cup of coffee while she waited for her computer to boot up. She might as well get more caffeine into her system. Maybe it would clear her head. She was tired from not sleeping well. She kept thinking how Josh

wouldnt like his dad leaving. Hed miss his dad because in the summer Toby tried to spend more time with his son. She drummed her fingers on the desk. Hed asked her if she was seeing anyone. Even though he seemed eager for her to be dating, Mallory wondered about his real reason for caring about her love life. Lack of one was more like it. Maybe he wanted her with someone so that he didnt feel guilty about being with Samantha. Marrying again wasnt an option for her. She didnt want to experience another failed marriage. She couldnt survive someone else betraying her the way Toby had. Obviously, she hadnt been sexy enough to keep Toby interested in her. While opening her email, she exhaled a deep breath. Nothing in her inbox. Okay, she knew it was too soon for him to email her the photos, but still it was disappointing. She could check her junk box. Seths email might have gone there. It did. She stared at the photos. Again, she was pleased with how great she looked with a smaller nose. Her phone rang so she went into the kitchen to

answer it. Hi. Hello, honey, her mom said in a cheery voice and continued, I never got a chance to talk to you about your big appointment yesterday. How did it go? I almost called you last night but knew you were out on a date. It went great. I like the plastic surgeon a lot. He asked me out for coffee after the appointment. He wanted to give me a chance to ask any additional questions I had about the surgery. Mallory, Ive never heard of a doctor taking a patient for coffee after a first appointment. Oh, do they usually wait until the second appointment? Her mom laughed. You know what I mean. Is he single? Yes, hes single. I invited him to the dinner Elizabeths going to have. Shes arranging it in hopes of fixing me up with Jeremy. Whoa. I guess I havent talked to you enough this past week. First, whos Jeremy? Hes the minister. Youve met him. Hes a sweetie but I dont want to date him. Whats the

point when I wont get serious about anyone again? Her mother left out a big sigh. I wish youd change your mind. Youre young and have every right to be happy. Its my fault. I might have given you bad advice. Ive been thinking how I wasted years of my life waiting for your dad to change and to return to us. I know I stressed many times how I didnt believe in divorce. Sometimes dissolving a marriage seems to be the only answer. And you didnt fail at your marriage. Toby did when he cheated on you. You should consider dating Jeremy. He might be Gods plan for you. You used to want to be a ministers wife. Well, that was in the past. I dont see Jeremy being interested in dating a divorced woman. But Ill humor Heather and Elizabeth. And itll be fun to have Seth meet my friends. Having fun with other people is a step in the right direction. You need to move on with your life. Toby has. Oh, he wont last with Samantha. Tobys a womanizer.

On Tuesday night Alan and I decided to get a pizza at Jac and Dos. Toby was picking up a pizza. Honey, Samantha was with him. I know he missed Tuesday night with you and Josh. Hed told her how he couldnt meet them at a restaurant on Tuesday, and that he had to meet with a client. He canceled on their night to eat together as a family, but had time to enjoy pizza with Samantha. Her mother continued in a troubled voice, I dont want to hurt you but I think you should know. They looked like a couple in love. I wouldnt be surprised if Toby and Samantha get married soon. We looked like that once. I bet God has someone better for you in mind. She gave a weak chuckle. You just want a minister in the family. Dont worry, Mom, Ill keep praying about everything. After finishing their phone conversation, Mallory returned to her computer. I should email Seth about moving up my surgery when I thank him for the photos. The phone rang while she took

another glance at the pictures. She didnt have to leave the study to answer because shed taken the cordless with her. Leaning back in the swivel chair, she said, Hello. Hi, Mallory. Sorry to bother you again. Hearing Tobys warm greeting surprised her. Now what? Was he going to ask her if Josh could just spend the whole month with him in Las Vegas? That was ridiculous. Shed already put up a fuss about a shorter stay. He continued, I bet youre grading papers. I remember how you always worked hard on your students papers on Saturdays. Wasnt he being sly? He didnt fool her by trying to be considerate and act like he didnt want to interrupt her work. Heck, hed already done that by visiting her. I finished them before you came. Do you have a parenting question for me to answer? Why would you ask that? You asked me if Id mentioned to Josh about you moving back home. I thought maybe you had another question since Samanthas in Joshs life.

No, of course not. I think you should come with Josh on the plane. Youve never been to Vegas and I bet youd enjoy it. There are a lot of family things to do too. Sure, a family vacation except they werent a family any longer. What about Samantha? Doesnt she want to travel with Josh? She does but understands youd want to be with him for his first plane trip. Shes right. Itll be fun to have you come too. Is Samantha still going? Shell come sometime. He cleared his throat. I didnt suggest you come in the first place because, I thought it might be too difficult for you. I know it was traumatic when your dad left to go to Vegas. Ive changed my mind. Itll be good for you to make good memories in Vegas. Hey, thats right. My dad left me at age five to go there and Joshs five. But it wasnt going to be the same outcome. She might have thought briefly that Toby wanted to gamble, but hed never been interested in it. Unfortunately, her dad loved gambling more than her mother and herself. Toby

could be right. Deep down she was bitter about her father leaving her when she was young. I promise not to bet, Toby said. I know you wont, especially since you want me there. It depends when wed go. I do have something planned in June. You dont have to decide now. You can think about it. Was Toby being sincere in wanting her to visit with Josh? Shes seen him in action in the courtroom. He could charm his opponent into divulging all kinds of confidential information. Why did he want her now in Vegas? Or perhaps Samantha had told him to invite her. But why would she want the ex-wife around? Dummy. Samantha probably wants a babysitter so she could go out with Toby and party in Vegas. Am I now being invited to watch Josh while you and Samantha go out? Would you like to babysit? Before she replied, he chuckled. Im kidding. I just thought youd enjoy getting away. Ill think about it but Seth wants me to fit him

in my schedule sometime in June when schools out for the summer. If Toby thought she meant Seth wanted to date her, it wasnt her fault. And she hadnt lied. She was going to see Seth in June unless she moved the surgery up to an earlier date. She wasnt going to Vegas with a swollen nose. I thought you wanted to fix Seth up with Heather. Did you change your mind? Great. Toby had listened to her when shed mentioned having coffee with Seth, and his factual mind never forgot a name or dates. Heather thinks Seths perfect for me, but theres an old friend who wants to date me. Anyone I know? he asked. Jeremy Turner. She waited for him to make a comment about a minister wanting to date her, but instead he said, I better go. The movie will be over soon. I want Josh to visit. Itll be great if you can make the trip with him. And Mallory, thanks for the cookies and coffee. Ill catch you later. Bye. After she heard his click, she looked again at the pictures of her nose. She couldnt

imagine not having the surgery, but it was possible. If she changed her mind, one good thing came out of learning more about rhinoplastyand that was meeting the handsome Dr. Whitman. He had definitely been a bright spot in her week. She smiled. Oh yeah, he wanted her to call him Seth. No problem. Shed call him Seth. And her mom was right. A doctor never had invited her out for coffee after an appointment.

Chapter Eight Mallory smiled at Elizabeth and Heather. Im glad you two are here. She had the best friends. Theyd been there for her when Toby left her, and now once again wanted to support her. Heathers offer of money for her plastic surgery meant a lot to her. She might not agree with Elizabeth for having a dinner party with the sole purpose of fixing her up with Jeremy, but she loved her for caring and wanting to help. Hey, what are friends for, Elizabeth said. I thought we better get together and plan this dinner Im hosting. Besides, when you mentioned Tobys leaving the state, I thought we should celebrate. She wore jean capris with a flowered scarf weaved through the belt loops. Her straight blonde hair rested on her shoulders. A white blouse topped off her capris. Mallory frowned. Geez, you just ruined my great idea. I thought we could all go to Vegas. Wed have a blast.

Heather, wearing beige Bermuda shorts and a red polo shirt, grinned. I cant believe what Im hearing from you. I never thought youd go to this city. When I talked about going, you convinced me not to fly there. Remember you gave me a big lecture of how corrupt Vegas is and gamblings a sin? She nodded. I remember. It sounds like Im being a hypocrite. My mom did tell me that dad went to Vegas when I was five in order to win money for Grandma. He said that he wanted to hire someone to take care of my grandma. He did want us to go with him. But whatever his reason for gambling, it was still wrong of him. Elizabeth raised her eyebrows. I thought you wanted your surgery in June. Wont your nose be swollen for a few weeks? Ive been thinking of missing a few days of school and moving up the surgery to May. If I dont have the splint on for seven days, I might not have to miss a whole week of school. I bet it could be removed after five days instead. Heather shook her head. I dont know if thats

a good idea. She jumped up from the sofa. He emailed me my photos. You have to see them. Elizabeth and Heather followed her into the study. Mallory still had them on the screen. Both women stared at the before and after photos for a few minutes. Elizabeth broke the silence with, The after photos look wonderful. I guess if you really want to look like that, you should get it done. But Mallory wont look the same. From the swivel chair, Heather pointed to one of the after shots. I feel like Im looking at a different person. You could wait and think about it longer. I have waited. Im thirty-two years old. Its a great time to do something for me. What does your mom think about your surgery? Elizabeth asked. She shrugged. I just emailed her the photos before you came. Mom hasnt said too much, but she seems to be in another world these days. Shes happy spending time with Alan. Heather moved away from the computer. She deserves to have a

great guy. Your mom helped mine to have a closer relationship with God. Your mothers a saint, Elizabeth said. Shes always lived her faith. Ill never forget how she took care of your dad when he had cancer. She forgave him for leaving us. That was weird when we went to North Carolina to be with him. But he wasnt a complete stranger to me. Hed been in and out of my life even after they separated. Sighing, Mallory looked at Elizabeth. I wanted my parents to have a marriage like your parents. Heather nodded. Me too. I hated it when my parents divorced. I think thats a reason Im afraid to get married. Mom and Dad had such nasty fights. I hope Derek and I have a marriage like my parents have. Elizabeth took another glance at photos. I guess you could move your surgery up, so your nose might not be swollen for the Vegas trip. But personally, waiting and sticking with having it in June seems like the best thing to do. How long does the swelling last? Heather

asked, shoving her hands in her pockets. Anywhere from one to six weeks. Mallory looked at Elizabeth. If I wait until June, I wont know what my nose will look like until after its done. I wont be able to make any plans and my flight will cost more. Toby invited you so make him pay for the round trip tickets, Elizabeth said. When shed talk to her friends on the phone, shed left out the part about Samantha flying with Josh. Im afraid Toby didnt invite me at first and Heather interrupted, I hope he wasnt going to have Josh fly by himself. Hes only five and hasnt been on a plane. Mallory shrugged. He planned on Samantha being with Josh on the flight. Not me. He didnt even ask me until later when he called. Id told him that Samantha didnt have any kids, and Josh doesnt know her well enough. Well, he then told me how Samanthas spending more time with them, so that they get to know each other better. Things have a way of working out, Heather

said. I wouldnt worry about the Vegas trip right now. Toby might change his mind or get done quicker than he thinks. Elizabeth touched Mallorys shoulder. Lets go eat. I brought subs and cookies. I figured you never ate lunch with all your excitement. And I havent eaten yet today. I skipped lunch, Heather said as she followed Elizabeth into the kitchen. Did Rachel bake the cookies? Mallory asked. Elizabeths sixteen-year-old sister loved baking. She did. Elizabeth noticed the cookies she had baked. Dont tell me you baked Tobys favorite cookies for him. I did but youll be proud of me that I didnt send any home with him. Elizabeth handed the sandwiches to them, and said, Have you ever considered that God might have plans for you to get married again? When her mom had mentioned seeing Toby and Samantha at Jac & Dos, shed tried to push it out of her mind. Sure, they were divorced but to her, it

still wasnt right. Legally, of course, they were not man and wife, but she felt in the eyes of God they were still married. Why had Toby fallen out of love with her? Maybe she hadnt been exciting enough to meet his sexual needs. Had she forced him to go outside their marriage to be with Lacey? She never had expected their marriage to end in divorce. I cant imagine that God would want me to get married a second time. I hadnt wanted to stay with Toby after his affair, so I wanted the divorce too. I couldnt forgive him. Maybe some time down the road, I might be able to consider marriage, but its too soon now and doesnt feel right to me. I understand, Elizabeth said. Itll take time to heal and to trust anyone enough to make a commitment. She walked to the refrigerator. Coke, iced tea or water? Both Heather and Elizabeth answered, Coke, please. While Mallory poured pop into glasses with ice, Elizabeth said, We need to get busy on

making plans for the dinner party. Is Seth still coming? Heather asked, unwrapping her sub. Good. Heather was interested in Seth. I can picture them dating. Whos Seth? Elizabeth looked perturbed. If we have an extra guy, I need to invite another woman. Seths my plastic surgeon. I think Heather and Seth will hit it off. Heather shrugged. No way. I think hes interested in you, Mallory. Elizabeth sipped her drink. Hey, I want to know when Dr. Whitman started being Seth. When we were at Starbucks he mentioned that I should call him Seth instead of calling him doctor at the dinner. He said maybe I wouldnt want Jeremy to know about my surgery. I never thought of that. He has a good point, Elizabeth said. Do you care if Jeremy knows? Not really. Mallory grinned. But I guess Id like to avoid talking about my nose and eat instead.

Heather swallowed a bite of her sub. I keep remembering while we were growing up you told us so many times that you wanted to be a ministers wife someday. Why had I talked so much about marrying a pastor? My friends keep bringing it up to me over and over again. Elizabeth nodded. Youd be a fantastic ministers wife. She shook her head. A divorced one. I wouldnt be a good example to the couples in congregation when as a Christian I couldnt keep my marriage vows. Thats ridiculous. It wasnt you but Toby. Elizabeth put her sandwich down. With so many divorces resulting even from Christian marriages, youd be able to help other women having to deal with the same problems. I can give a workshop on how to spend thousands of dollars on surgery after a divorce. She couldnt resist teasing Elizabeth. She loved her friend but was tired of hearing how she should be interested in Jeremy.

Well, Jeremy will make a wonderful husband and father someday, Heather said. Oh my gosh, did Heather like Jeremy? Her friend had seemed to want her with Jeremy, but maybe shed been afraid to face her feelings for the minister. She stared at Heather. Instead of focusing of me and Jeremy, I think we should focus on you with him. But he asked about you, Heather protested. Probably because he needed something to talk about with you. And he thought of me since were good friends. If he wasnt already interested in Heather, there had to be a way to make it happen. Of course, shed pray but God wouldnt mind a little assistance. Do you have any patients who need spiritual guidance? Heather raised her eyebrows. We have a hospital chaplain. You know that. He visits the patients. Im sure he wont mind some help from a dynamic guy like Jeremy. Hey, she was on a roll here. Why hadnt she realized before that Jeremy and Heather would make a great couple? And

Heather looked so much like Katie Holmes. How could Jeremy resist sweet and lovely Heather? Or a bit of a vacation for the hospital chaplain maybe? Elizabeth giggled, glancing at Mallory. Poor Jeremy. First, we tried to fix him up with you, Mallory. I mean think about itthe whole reason behind the dinner night was to have you realize Jeremys a great guy for you. She turned to Heather. Now Mallory sees you and Jeremy together. I wonder what Jeremy would think of all this. Would he be honored that we think hes a great catch, or would he instead wish wed stay out of matchmaking? I guess well know Saturday night what he thinks. As a minister hes probably good in psychology and will sense whats going on. Mallory sipped her water. Have I made a mistake dismissing Jeremy again as a future husband? Hed be a wonderful stepfather to Josh, and that would be a good reason to consider marrying again. And her friends were completely correct that she talked constantly in the past about marrying

a minister. Shed originally invited Seth to distract her friends, but realized now she needed to decide if she still wanted him to attend for this reason. Elizabeth picked up an oatmeal cookie. Do we want to meet at a nice restaurant or do something more casual? What about a barbecue in my backyard? I mean if the weather is decent. Heather, you can make your yummy pasta salad. I love your potato salad, Elizabeth. They have ribeye steaks on sale at Krogers this week so Ill provide the meat. Buying steak instead of hamburger would hurt her budget, but she was anxious to get the outside furniture moved from the garage. Eating in the backyard would be nicer than sitting in a restaurant. I love your idea, Elizabeth said. Ill help pay for the steak. Why dont you just furnish the spot and let us pay for the meat? Heather suggested. Elizabeth agreed. After all, it was my idea. We can split it three ways and Ill fix a dessert. She bet Seth would like eating outdoors

after being cooped up for hours in the operating room with all his surgeries. Elizabeth gave an amused look at Mallory. I guess we have everything decided. You and Heather can hover between Seth and Jeremy. It should be a fun evening. Two single women and two single guys. Itd be more fun for me as long as you two dont try to match me up with either Seth or Jeremy. Elizabeth frowned. Okay, I admit itll be an entertaining eveningeven though I have no plans to date Jeremy. She shouldnt be so negative when Elizabeth and Heather wanted the best for her. They just didnt agree on what that was. Heather grinned. Oh, you didnt mention not dating Seth. Ill admit that Im looking forward to seeing Seth. Not as a romantic interest but as a friend. I enjoyed having coffee with him. But was Heather right about Seth? Was he being more than polite about attending the dinner? Was he hoping theyd

move past the patient doctor- relationship? Maybe agreeing to calling him Seth instead of Dr. Whitman had been a mistake.

Chapter Nine After rising to an upward position on the surgical table, Mallory faced Seth. He looked handsome in his surgical scrubs. As he gave her a tender look, she puckered her lips, meeting his with no problem. She wasnt surprised that he was a good kisser. But she was startled that their long kiss seemed so right. Pulling slightly away from Seth, she wondered, why she was kissing her plastic surgeon. Strange, she just had her rhinoplasty but no splint was on her nose. She only had big white gauze covering her nose. What happened to the splint? Maybe Seth never completed the surgery. Geez, who cared about a smaller nose anyhow? Kissing Seth was all that mattered. He grinned, holding her hand in his. This is a first. Ive never been kissed by a patient after surgery. She smiled back at him. And it better be the

last. At the sound of the phone ringing, she opened her eyes. Feeling disoriented from her dream, it took her a second to focus on answering. While her hand fumbled in the dark to locate the receiver, she glanced at the clock radio. She saw it was only ten. Shed gone to bed at nine. Early for a Saturday night but shed been exhausted. With the phone next to her ear, she said, Hello. Did I wake you? Toby asked. Yes, but its okay. Is Josh sick? No. Hes not sick but hes having trouble going to sleep. I thought it might help if he talked to you. Before you put him on the phone, Id like to know if somethings happened. He had trouble adjusting the first several weeks sleeping at your place, but hes been fine now spending the weekends with you. Im sorry but it might be my fault. I told him that Im going to Las Vegas and I want him to visit. He seems worried about flying. I thought hed be thrilled.

Hes just a little boy whos had to deal with our divorce. And he hasnt adjusted fully to us not all living together. Now you tell him that youre going so far away that he needs to get on a plane to see you. She sighed. Please put Josh on the phone. Ill get him. Hes just in the other room. She wasnt happy that Toby had upset Josh, but she was glad he thought to call her. She wanted to talk to her little boy. When a father left you at age five years old, it was frightening. She should know. Mommy, I cant sleep. She hated to hear his sad voice. Should she offer to pick him up? She didnt want to impose on Tobys time with their son, but it would only take her fifteen minutes to drive there. Shed try to soothe his fears first by talking before jumping in the car. Its okay, Josh. Sometimes I have trouble going to sleep and reading a book helps me forget whats keeping me awake. Would it help if Daddy read to you? No, I want you to read to me.

She read Good Night, Moon to Josh when hed been younger and recently, hed asked her to read it again. She had it memorized. She smiled. Even if she made a mistake, Josh would correct her. She hadnt put it in his bag for the weekend but Josh might have. Do you have the Good Night, Moon book with you? Yes. Go to bed and get all comfy. Ill have Daddy give you the cordless phone and Ill read it to you. Hows that? Okay. And tell Daddy I dont want to go to Vegas. I want to stay home with you. Im thinking about going. We could go together to see Daddy. But Im not sure if I can. She didnt want to commit to a trip she might not be able to make. She still needed to talk to Seth about moving up her surgery and missing school concerned her. Maybe the whole nose surgery was a bad idea. Why did Toby have to go work for Jeff in June? I hate divorce, Josh said. I know, honey. Divorce is hard on all of us,

but you have to remember that your Daddy and I love you very much. And were happy that we were married and had you. Dont worry about the trip to Vegas. Its not until June and Daddys not sure about all the details yet. Its going to all work out. We should pray about it. God loves us and we should give this problem to Him. But right now, you crawl into bed. I will. And you can get into your bed and well both try to go to sleep at the same time. He giggled. If you go to sleep first, Ill finish the book by myself. That sounds like a good plan. Im going to pee first. Then get my book. Ill stay on the phone, but I have to warn you that Im getting mighty sleepy. Heres Daddy. After Josh left she realized that two weeks with his grandparents might be too long for him. Josh had never been away from home that long. Shed give them a call soon and tell them a week or maybe ten days at the most might be better for Josh to spend at the lake house with them.

Thank you, Mallory, Toby said. Youve always been a great mother. Apparently I wasnt a great wife. You were too good as a wife. What do you mean by that? You smothered me sometimes with all the attention you gave me. He cleared his throat. Im going to put the phone on speaker for Josh. He obviously didnt want to talk about their married life, but she still needed to ask him how the dinner went with Samantha. Toby leaving the state seemed like enough reason for Josh to get upset but it could be more. Wait, Toby. Do you think Josh is also upset about Samantha eating dinner with you guys tonight? He was quieter than usual, but he did talk to Samantha. He seemed to like to hear about her nephews. She has two the same age as Josh. She had to hand it to Toby. He was smart trying to impress her again with Samanthas experience with kids. I know why youre telling me that Samantha knows all about boys Joshs age. You want to convince me that he can fly with her to Las

Vegas. Just because she knows all about five-yearold boys doesnt mean she knows mine. I want you to come with Josh. I just mentioned to you about Samanthas nephews because you asked me how the dinner went. I think it went okay. Im sorry I told Josh about the whole Vegas thing. I was a stupid idiot. Now Im going to get off here so you can read to him. Fifteen minutes later, Josh was asleep but she was wide awake. And it wasnt Toby keeping her from sleeping. Dr. Seth Whitman was the man of the hour. It was kinda nice that another man was giving her insomnia. Why would she dream about Seth? She was only remotely attracted to Seth. Okay, maybe a little. She was a young female and staring at handsome Seth was a pleasant experience. Probably ninety-eight per cent of women enjoyed seeing his face. And the other two percent had to have poor eyesight. Or no taste. Also she loved his blue eyes. Hed given her many kind and thoughtful looks. Hed made her feel comfortable about wanting surgery. She liked

his outgoing personality and how he hadnt been distant. Of course, his friendly and warm manner might be due to being a surgeon to different kinds of people. With his exceptional reputation, he probably catered to many rich people wanting to improve their appearances. Shed heard even movie stars went to him. With the middle-class wanting to look the best they could and desiring a more youthful appearance, she was sure he didnt just work mostly on the faces and bodies of the rich. The fact he became interested in plastic surgery because of his sisters injuries had a lot to say about his character. He wasnt in it just for the money. He definitely wanted to give people a more positive outlook on life by correcting their flaws. She appreciated how at the same time, he wasnt knife happy. Seth had told her how hed understand if she decided not to do it. Hed even gone as far to say that she was beautiful like Princess Diana had been. Of course, she wasnt. Dreaming about the surgery wasnt a surprise since earlier shed been talking and showing her

pictures to Elizabeth and Heather. But she hadnt said or thought about kissing Seth so why did she in her dream? And why had she appeared to enjoy it a lot? Her friends seemed to think Seth was interested in her. What if his real reason for coming to the barbecue was to spend time with her? Itd seemed innocent enough when Seth asked her to join him for coffee at Starbucks and said she could ask him additional questions about her surgery. Since shed been his last appointment, itd never occurred to her that Seth wanted to date her. Had she misinterpreted everything? Elizabeth and Heather could be right that Seths wasnt just concerned about her as a patient. She shouldnt be dreaming about Seth. Its only been five months since her divorce. And if Seth was interested in dating her that couldnt be a good thing. Serving God was what she wanted for her life and for Josh. She was sure He wanted her to concentrate on giving Josh the best Christian home possible. She didnt need to get married to

someone to do that. She hopped out of bed to go to her little study. Ill email Seth to see if he can schedule my surgery before June. I hate to wait until Monday to call his office. While she sat in front of her computer, waiting for it to boot up, she wondered, if he had replied to her email she sent after Elizabeth and Heather left. Shed emailed him about the barbecue plans and thanked him for emailing the photos. Shed printed the before and after shots and stuck them in a folder. She had to look at the new Mallory again. After she pulled the pictures out and admired them for a few moments, her computer was ready. She clicked on the icon for her email program. Yes, there was an email from Seth. If you have anymore questions or concerns, you can call me on my cell. Should she call him? Hed given his number to her on Friday. Wrapping a lock of hair around her finger, she glanced at the computer time, and decided ten-thirty might not be too late. There wasnt a phone in the study so went back to the

bedroom. After punching his numbers, she leaned back against her pillow. While waiting for Seth to answer, she felt stupid bothering him on a weekend about moving up her surgery. Really. She couldve have waited until Monday. Calling him at home like this would definitely make it seem she was interested in him. Hes not answering. Ill quit after one more ring and text him instead. Or call him after the weekend. Seth answered, Hello. In a nervous voice, she said, Hi, Seth. Its Mallory. Im sorry Im calling you so late. Its fine. I havent gone to bed. I hope the barbecues still on. He laughed. You didnt decide to replace me with another bachelor, did you? The warm words made her feel good. He wanted to spend time with her and her friends. Nice that he wasnt rejecting her. Toby knew how important family night was to her and Josh but hed canceled to spend time with Samantha. Id never do that. Im glad youre coming.

So are your friends still trying to fix you up with the minister? Should she mention they switched their focus to him? Not a good idea if I want to avoid giving the impression Im really after him. Not so much. Are you having second thoughts after seeing the photos? No. And I showed them to Elizabeth and Heather. Elizabeth said I should go ahead and do the surgery. Heather thinks I should wait. She said it didnt look like me. Remember youll have some swelling so you wont instantly look like that. Swelling might last a few weeks. Swelling in June was what she feared if the Vegas trip happened for her and Josh. She might as well get to the point of her call. Swellings a concern for me. If I could move up my surgery to May instead, would it possible for me to wear the splint for only five days instead of a week? I dont want to miss too much school. The splints worn while the nose is healing, and thats usually for one week after surgery. Ive

taken the splint off in five or six days in certain situations, but I thought you wanted to wait until schools out. Toby told me today that hes going to Las Vegas to do legal work for a friend in June. He wants Josh to visit him and That gives you more time to recover with Josh going two places in June. Not exactly. Toby asked me to fly with Josh. She didnt need to tell Seth that she hadnt been invited at first. If you have the surgery in May instead, what about Josh? I thought one reason you wanted it in June was because he was staying with his grandparents. How could she have forgotten about Josh? She didnt want him to see her with swelling, bruising and the splint. It might frighten him when she didnt look like his mom. It hadnt occurred to her that shed need to make other arrangements for Josh if she changed the date. But she wasnt going to tell Seth that. Youre right but maybe he could stay with my mother. If I go to Vegas, I dont want to

have swelling from the surgery. Even if you do have it in May, you could still have some swelling in June. Each patients different. Usually though most of the noticeable swelling will fade in about two weeks. And my calendar might be full for May. How about you wait until after you come back from Vegas? Youre right. Ill keep the surgery date in June. Its the best time. Im just glad I met this awesome and talented plastic surgeon whos going to make me beautiful. Seth cleared his throat. Mallory, if you change your mind about the surgery, thats fine. I think youre beautiful just the way you are. For a moment she didnt say anything and thought how amazing it was that shed just met Seth yesterday and already felt this strong connection to him. Did God guide her to Seth for a bigger reason? Most people would find it strange that she was experiencing this kind of bond with her surgeon. Many wonderful things had happened to her since meeting Seth. Hed told her that he supported her

in whatever decision she made about her surgery. When she asked him to attend a dinner party where he would be a decoy, hed instantly agreed. Having coffee with him at Starbucks had been fun. Talking to him now seemed so natural and right to her. Even though she had strong doubts about a second marriage, she might keep an open mind about Seth Whitman. The Bible verse from Proverbs came to her mind. Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seth, Ill be sure to pray if I should have the surgery.

Chapter Ten After his conversation with Mallory, Seth opened the door to his deck. He decided fresh air might clear his brain. At the sound of the gurgling water in the hot tub, he thought briefly about getting in. The night air was chilly and the heat of the water would feel great on his sore muscles from playing racquetball. But did he want to take the time to change his clothes and get into the water? At this point, it probably wouldnt soothe his raging feelings about Mallory, so he put the cover on the tub before plopping down on a patio chair. Hed been happy to hear her voice, but not so pleased when she mentioned wanting to move her surgery up to May. Her desire to look good for the Vegas trip bothered him. Was she concerned about the swelling because of Toby? Or maybe she didnt want to be around lots of people with a swollen nose. He couldnt deny that he had feelings for Mallory, but what did he really want to do about her? Confusion was a new concept for

him. He felt admiration for her strong morals and belief that she shouldnt marry again. But he didnt agree with her. Even if he convinced her to give him a chance, he knew his parents might not be thrilled about him seeing her. As Christians they had instilled strong beliefs in him about marriage and family. They frowned on divorce. He knew he was jumping the gun here. Hed only had coffee with her but she did invite him to her friends barbecue. Man, he needed to bounce off some things to another guy. Was it too late to call Henry? It was close to eleven. What the heck, hed give his buddy a call. After he went back inside, Seth took his phone with him to the living room. He glanced at his 50inch plasma screen television, remembering the day he bought it. His fiance Leanne had gone with him to buy the expensive item. He thought theyd get married and live happily ever after, so hed bought several big purchases for the house. When shed told him that it was over between them, hed been shocked. There hadnt been any warning signs that she was going to break the engagement.

Hed known Henry since med school. They both had trained in otolaryngology, but Seth also did in plastic surgery. Hed done both areas in the beginning of his career and now he missed seeing young patients at Childrens Hospital. Hed enjoyed helping improve childrens hearing, but once his plastic surgery business grew, he decided to concentrate on this area of specialty. He had Henry on speed dial and sat on the sectional couch while waiting for his friend to answer. After several rings, Henry said, Hello, Seth. I was surprised to see your name on my caller ID. Dont you have anything better to do on a Saturday night? Guess you didnt get up the nerve to call Mallory? Actually Mallory just called me. Sorry to bother you, but I need some guy advice about her. Henry laughed. Again. We talked after I beat you in racquetball. Hey, stop rubbing it in. Ill kick your butt next Saturday. I wish youd been here a few minutes ago. While I rocked my son to sleep, I told him how his

daddy was awesome in racquetball and won a steak dinner. Hed like to have what Henry hada wife and baby. Women his age were sometimes divorced, looking for prospective second husbands. Well, not Mallory. She wanted to avoid a match-up with the minister or anyone. Glad you enjoyed the steak, he told Henry. Just dont get used to it. So is the surgery off? No, Mallory called because she wants to move her surgery up to May which isnt a good time for her. Shell miss school and have to make new arrangements for her son. Whats the rush? Henry asked. Her exs going to Las Vegas in June to do legal work so he wants Josh to visit him. Mallory doesnt want to go with a swollen nose from the surgery. Do you think she was even invited to go to Vegas? She said Toby invited her. People get married there, Henry said. She

might be worried that her ex is getting married to his girlfriend and decided to go along with her son and try to stop it. That would be a lot of drama. I hope thats not the case. He shifted his weight. Why had he let Leanne talk him into buying this uncomfortable furniture? His legs were too long for it. He shouldnt have gotten this sectional couch. If Mallory has the surgery earlier, you can ask her out sooner. Right and get rejected. Henry chuckled. You know I dont even know this Mallory, but I already like her. Because she might turn me down. I thought you were my friend. No, its because of racquetball. What does that have to do with Mallory? Im not planning on asking her to play, especially if she gets her nose done. Shed have to avoid physical sports for several weeks. He wouldnt want her nose to take a hit. Ill beat you a lot in racquetball because you just met her and now cant stop thinking about her.

Its a win-win situation for me. Henry was absolutely right. Mallory Harrington had quickly invaded his thoughts. It was funny how hed be spending his birthday with her next Saturday. He hadnt planned on celebrating his thirty-seventh one. Hed been dreading it since Leanne broke their engagement. He heard Rebecca saying Henrys name, so didnt want to take anymore of his friends time. I hear Rebecca. Ill let you go. Yeah, Ill talk to you later. My woman wants me. He exhaled a deep breath. Why hadnt he asked Mallory to have brunch with him tomorrow? He hated to wait until the barbecue to see her again. No, it was for the best he hadnt suggested brunch. For now she was his patient, but he hoped someday shed be more than a patient to him. *** Mallory sighed. Seth probably couldnt believe her call about changing the date of her surgery.

How many patients called their surgeons at their home to ask to move up their surgery by a month? Of course, hed given his number to her to call if she had any questions. She bet he was sorry now. No, he seemed glad to hear from her until she mentioned moving up her surgery to May. And in her desperation, shed forgotten about Josh. The best thing was for him to be at the lake house while she had the surgery. She used to be a rational woman, but now she was so consumed with looking good for the Vegas trip that shed forgotten about Josh. But she couldnt let go of the idea that she should change the date of her surgery. Ill list reasons and see if that will help me to decide what to do. She pulled open a drawer of her writing desk and removed a legal pad. She was old-fashioned and preferred to write her list out in longhand and not on some little Smartphone. Okay, she only owned a cheap cell phone that she used for texting and calling people. But even if she did have an expensive cell phone, a legal pad would still be her first choice.

Reasons to move it upReasons to keep it in June Get it over a month earlier.Josh will be with his grandparents. Be ready to go to Vegas with smaller nose Wont have to miss school days. Swelling will be less in time to go to Vegas Wont inconvenience Seth. How could she sleep without knowing exactly when Toby wanted them to visit? Hed just said sometime in June. He usually stayed up until midnight on the weekends, so shed give him a call. Maybe he could give an idea if it would be the middle of June or hopefully, Toby would decide on the very end of the month. He answered on the first ring and said, Youre so predictable. I knew youd call to see if Josh was still sleeping. I thought about texting you even to save you a call. I just checked on him and hes fast asleep, so you better get some sleep for church tomorrow.

Did you change your mind about going with us? The ministers sermons have been great. Im spending the day with Samantha. I think I told you this already. She hated hearing again about his plans with his girlfriend, but it was her own fault for mentioning church to him for the second time. Although she wanted to say something negative about them spending time together, she didnt want to sound like the jealous ex-wife. You did. It slipped my mind. I actually called to see if you could give me a better idea of when you want us in Vegas. The end of June would be the best for me. I dont know. Im hoping to get things wrapped up by the middle of May here in the office. Mom said Josh could cut short the two weeks at the lake house, so I could have you fly to Vegas then No, that wont work for me. Im going to call your parents about having him stay for ten days instead. I dont think hes ready to stay away from home for two weeks but Should she just mention that she was having surgery and couldnt

travel until late June? She couldnt tell him what kind though and definitely didnt want to lie to Toby when he asked. Why does it have to be the end of June? Junes a busy time for me. I have some medical appointments I have scheduled and other things planned with friends. That was the truth. Shed be seeing Seth several times for and after surgery. She wanted to spend time with Heather and Elizabeth. Maybe you could get your appointments for May instead. They dont pay you enough anyhow at your school. While Toby was in law school, shed taught in the public school system and made decent money. When Josh was born, Toby was out of law school and working as a lawyer. She was able to quit and stay home full-time. Three years later, she returned to teaching, but Toby hadnt been happy that she switched to a private school. He said she should go where the money was. Being able to teach in a Christian environment and sharing her faith with her students was important to her, so she hadnt

backed down. Its silly to do that when I can go in June and not take time off from my job. Anyhow the appointments are scheduled. I doubt if I can change them. I hate to go too long without seeing Josh. Ill fly back once and see him over a weekend. Samantha has been complaining about me being gone so Ill see her too. I might be done before the end of June but if Im not, just plan on coming then. He laughed. You win, Mallory. You should have been the lawyer. Maybe I will go to law school. I wont be a divorce lawyer though. I believe too much in the sanctity of marriage. She better shut up before she said too much. Thanks, Toby for being flexible about June. Ill talk to you later. Bye. Mallory sighed after ending the call. Great, Toby wasnt just flying back to see Josh but wanted to fit Samantha in his schedule. What does he see in Samantha? Is it her great looks or youth? It probably helps that they both share a passion for law.

I better try to get some sleep. She crawled into bed, leaning over to switch off the bedside lamp. One thing she did know. Itll be more pleasant to dream about Seth again than about Toby and Samantha. Since shed talk to both men, would Toby and Seth be in a dream? Maybe theyd fight over her. Yeah, right. More likely theyd be fighting over Samanthathe one with the cute small nose.

Chapter Eleven Mallory glanced around the patio at her guests from her seat at the end of the table. The week had flown by with school, spending time with Josh, a couple of evening telephone chats with Seth, and getting ready for the barbecue. Toby had been too busy to help move the heavy patio set from the garage, so Heather had helped her instead. Heather and Jeremy were on one side of the rectangular shaped table with Elizabeth and Seth seated across from them. On the opposite end from her was blond-haired Derek. She noticed that he had a smug look on his face as if to tell the world hed done something unethical and got away with it. Now why did she always think badly of Elizabeths fianc? Was it because she never had liked him? As a salesman, Derek seemed filled with insincere charm. Maybe part of the reason could be because her dad had been a salesman. Although she knew her dads main flaw wasnt due to his occupation, but to gambling his wages. At

least, Derek didnt throw his money away. From what Elizabeth had told her, theyd made wise financial decisions so there wouldnt be any debt hanging over their heads as a married couple. With Jeremy to her left and Seth on her right, she knew that Elizabeth should be satisfied. Two eligible men and both handsome. Why had she ever thought Jeremys nose was big? He was a heartbreaker with his good looks. Both Seth and Jeremy had broad shoulders and were tall. Obviously the main reason for having this get together was to fix her up with someone. Well, it wasnt all about her but also for her single friend, Heather too. She might as well make the most of it even though deep down she knew dating Seth shouldnt happen. She smiled at Seth, and over the others conversation, she whispered, Im glad you came. Seth stopped cutting his steak to look at her. Me too. You grill a mean steak. She laughed. Is that the only reason? How about my delightful company? Sure, that too. He stopped cutting his meat

and gave her an appreciative glance. You look very pretty. She touched a tiny ruffle on her black and white blouse. Thank you. And I love the flowers you brought. Hyacinths give off a wonderful fragrance. Seth had given her a small pot of deep pink hyacinths, so shed placed them in the middle of the table. Jeremy turned to stare at Seth. I think I recognize your name. Do you work at His words were drowned out by the neighbors riding lawn mower whipping around next to her yard. She knew everything had been going too well. Why did Eddie have to mow right now? Couldnt he see she had company? Maybe it was a blessing because when Seth had told Derek and Jeremy that he was a surgeon, they hadnt asked what kind of surgery he did. It didnt seem likely that Jeremy had known Seth from his private practice, so it must be before Seth had his own facility. In a loud voice, Derek said, Your neighbors lawn doesnt need mowing. Is he ticked off at you

for something? Maybe hes upset you didnt invite him tonight. She shook her head, waiting to speak until Eddie wasnt as close to her backyard. She saw again how bad he looked with his long and stringy hair. Eddies grass got shorter while his hair grew longer. I did invite Eddie. He said he had other plans. His wife died a few months ago, and hes having a hard time adjusting to life without her. Taking care of his yard seems to be a form of therapy for him. He mows it all the time. Hes probably not even aware of the noise bothering us. Thats sad he lost his wife, Heather said. Derek pointed his fork at Mallory. Hey, you two have something in common. She grinned at Derek. What do I have in common with Eddie? That I mow my lawn too much or that I irritate you? You both lost your spouses, Derek said. Elizabeth used her napkin to wipe her mouth. Tobys alive. Derek shrugged. I know that. I meant

I know people getting divorced say its like a death in the family, Mallory said, but I dont feel that way. Heather nodded. Tobys very much involved in Joshs life. Toby and Mallory didnt have a bitter divorce because they respect each other. Elizabeth gave her a direct glance. Tobys even planning on having Josh and Mallory visit him when hes doing legal work in Las Vegas this summer. Derek grasped Elizabeths hand. Well, hopefully, our marriage wont end. I cant imagine ever being with someone else. Ive never been married, but I do counsel couples who are not married, newly wed, or couples who have been together for years. Youd be surprised how many conflicts couples face in trying to stay together. Jeremy smiled at Derek and Elizabeth. Im not trying to scare you, but Im available for counseling if a problem keeps you from having a close marriage. Thanks, Jeremy, Elizabeth said. Were attending a session now at our church for engaged

couples. Im interested because Id rather go to someone outside our church if we should have problems in the future, Derek said. Elizabeth rolled her eyes at Derek. I dont think we have to worry about our minister airing our personal life to others. Derek raised his eyebrows. Hey, ministers arent perfect. Isnt that right, Jeremy? I mean youre a sinner too. Thats true none of us are perfect. Jeremy grinned at Derek. Although some of us are closer to being perfect than others. She knew Jeremy was kidding Derek, but thought how apt it was for her situation. I thought Id have the perfect marriage. I still cant believe Im divorced. Toby and I tried counseling but only went twice. He refused to continue. To tell the truth, I wasnt feeling forgiving toward Toby. I hated his unfaithfulness and was so angry at him. Mallory, Im sorry about your divorce, Derek said, but maybe it was for the best. Youre a wonderful woman. It sounds like Toby didnt

love you the way you should be loved. Maybe shed be too critical of Derek. What he said to her was sweet, but it hurt because what he said was true. Youre right. Toby didnt love me enough. Seths blue eyes met hers. Looks like your neighbors quitting mowing for the evening. At a quick glance at Eddies yard, she saw him driving into a small shed. Heather smiled. Quiet again. Its such a lovely evening. The weathers great and its early enough that there arent any bugs. Mallory, thanks for having us. It is a nice evening. Jeremy said. Seth, I dont think you heard me before when I said I recognized your name. Sorry, I didnt. I was a minister in a church in Toledo a few years ago, and I visited a girl from church who had her tonsils out. I remember she had a crush on a Dr. Whitman and said how it was worth having surgery because you were so nice and hot. She turned to Seth, grinning. Sounds like you.

The nice part anyhow. I get the feeling you two know each other. I figured youre here because youre friends with Heather since shes a surgical nurse. Derek gave Seth and Malloy a thoughtful look. But you two look pretty cozy. Seth laughed. Elizabeth, you sure you want to marry Derek? First, to answer Jeremys question. I was on staff at Childrens Hospital in Toledo. And second, Mallory invited me this evening. We havent known each other very long, but we hit it off right away. Since todays my birthday, Im glad she asked me to come. While the others wished him a happy birthday, she thought how Seth had never mentioned before that it was his birthday. Why would he want to spend his birthday here with her and her friends? Granted, Seth was right how theyd connected quickly but to spend a birthday with strangers instead of family seemed weird. I wish youd told me because I wouldve baked you a birthday cake. But you made your delicious caramel

cheesecake, Heather said. Stick some candles in it. Elizabeth chimed in, Oh, Heathers right. Mallory makes her own version of the Cheesecake Factorys Dulce De Leche Caramel Cheesecake, and hers is even better. Seth wiped his lips with a napkin. Cheesecake sounds delicious but candles arent necessary. It would take too many. Mallory leaned closer to Seth. You arent getting out of telling us your age. Let me guess. She touched her chin and stared at him. You dont look a day over thirty-three, but you went to medical school and youve been practicing for some time. I mean Jeremy heard of you a few years ago. Ill guess youre thirty-eight years old today. Seth frowned. Youre kidding. That old. Come on. I cant be that far off. And I did say you look younger than that. Okay, Ill admit it. Youre close. Im thirtyseven years old. Seth gave her a broad smile. Youre a good guesser. A cell phone rang, and Jeremy said, Its mine.

I better answer it. Excuse me. After Jeremy walked off the patio, Mallory said, Is everyone ready for some birthday cheesecake? Bring it on, Mallory. I can always eat your desserts, Derek said. Elizabeth and Heather followed her into the house. She took the cheesecake out of the refrigerator and set it on the countertop. She moaned. I dont even want to know how many calories are in this dessert. Or Ill be doing crunches all night. While Heather got small plates out of the cupboard, Elizabeth opened the silverware drawer. You two look so cute. Im sure Jeremy and Seth noticed too. Heather smiled. Ive enjoyed talking to Jeremy. Im not sure he has Mallory out of his system though. She raised her eyebrows. Are you kidding? Hes hardly talked to me. Hes all yours, girl. Heather winked at her. It might be because youve been very engrossed in whatever Seth has

to say to you. Its amazing how you two find so much to talk about. I cant believe how you and Seth just met a week ago. Elizabeth waved her hand at Heather and Mallory. Im excited for both of you. I can see Heather bringing Jeremy as a guest to my wedding. And Im sure Seth will be attending if you ask him, Mallory. Seths even better looking in person. Mallory poured water into the coffeemaker. Im sorry Dereks been a jerk, Elizabeth said. Should she agree with Elizabeth or just keep her mouth shut? She decided to be honest with her friend. Mallory nodded. Derek did make me uncomfortable when he said how I had something in common with Eddie because I lost Toby. But that was sweet what he said later. She grinned at Elizabeth. But youre in trouble, lady. I could tell youve been telling him how I deserve to get married again. Before Elizabeth could say a word, Heather said, Well, I think its nice you invited Seth so I

could have more of Jeremys attention. Seth must be crazy about you since he came here on his birthday. She sighed. I shouldve put candles on the cheesecake before I cut it. Elizabeth gave her a nudge. Forget about the candles. We better get back out there before Derek tries to sell them something. Just put one candle on Seths piece, Heather said. Thats a great idea. She stuck a candle in one piece, then opened a drawer to get a candle lighter. The women carried the dessert and coffee mugs to the patio. Once in front of Seth, she lit the candle. I dont think Jeremy will care if we dont wait for him. Mallory led the others in the birthday song. After Seth blew the candle out, Heather went back inside to get the coffee. Jeremy returned to the table and put his phone down. While Heather poured coffee for each person, Jeremys troubled eyes glanced at them. I just received a phone call from a mother. Her

daughter died yesterday. Ive been praying with her. I asked her if she wanted me to go to their house this evening, but she wants me to wait until tomorrow. Oh no, how old was she? Mallory asked. Only eighteen. Jeremy sighed as he sat on the chair. She just finished her first year of college. Her last final was Thursday. She had surgery yesterday in Columbus. Heather put a cup of coffee next to Jeremy. What went wrong? Thats what is so hard. She was having plastic surgery in the morning and it was believed to be a routine procedure. There wasnt any indication that she wasnt going to walk out of the surgery, but twenty-four hours later, she died. A chill went through her when she heard the reason for the girls death. How could this happen to someone so young? Elizabeths shocked face looked at Jeremy, and she knew why his explanation had alarmed her friend. Dying during plastic surgery had never occurred to either of them. Maybe it hadnt been just a change in

appearance that had concerned Heather about her own surgery. As a nurse, Heather knew about the risks involved in any type of surgery even if you were young and healthy. What procedure was she having done? Please dont say nose surgery. That would be too much of a coincidence. Breast surgery. Not just implants but some defect. Even though the girl hadnt had nose surgery, was this a sign from God? Was He telling her not to have the surgery? Of course, He hadnt caused the girl to die just to warn her, but now that it happened, maybe He wanted her to know so shed cancel the surgery. I cant believe this happened to the poor girl and her family. Im guessing she died from a hidden problem, Seth said. Was it because of the anesthetics or something else? Jeremy nodded. She died from malignant hyperthermia. Whats that? Derek asked. Its a condition often triggered by certain anesthetics that can increase the individuals body

temperature to dangerous levels, Seth said. Its usually an inherited disorder and is a metabolic disorder of muscle that often goes unnoticed in everyday life. It can become deadly if an individual suffering from this disorder is given a triggering anesthetic. Its very rare for this to happen. The parents have requested an autopsy, Jeremy said. Its hard to comprehend that she went in for breast surgery and died. Could she wait until everyone left to pump Seth with questions? Did it matter if Derek and Jeremy learned what she was planning to do? She had thought the less who knew the better. If Elizabeth had already told Derek, he wasnt giving any indication he was aware of her scheduled surgery. Seth squeezed her hand. Breast surgery is a little bit more invasive because its in an area of the body that has a lot of blood vessels. Its more challenging. Can I find out ahead if I have this disorder so that this wont happen to me during surgery? She

had to ask and couldnt wait. Heather said quickly, Most cases of malignant hyperthermia occur in children and less often in adults. And the adults are younger than thirty. Seth glanced at Jeremy. Im guessing the teenager wasnt given dantrolene sodium. Its an intravenous muscle relaxant and is administered if malignant hyperthermia occurs. Its the only effective treatment for this reaction. Jeremy finished swallowing a bite of dessert. The surgeon didnt give it but the mother mentioned they gave it at the hospital. He shifted his gaze from Seth to Mallory, taking another bite of cake. Not to change the subject but this cheesecake is the best Ive ever tasted. Thanks, Jeremy. Im glad you like it. Leaning forward in her chair, Mallory asked Seth, Have you ever had a patient die during surgery? Seth shook his head. No, I havent. Mallory, have you been holding out on us? Derek raised his eyebrows. Are you going to have breast surgery? If you are, you dont need it.

Elizabeth looked like she wanted to wring Dereks neck. I think you do need counseling, so you learn when to keep your mouth shut. Its okay. Mallory shrugged. I might as well tell Jeremy and Derek whats going on. Im having cosmetic plastic surgery and Seths doing the procedure next month. Jeremy frowned. But you dont need anything done. I agree. If its your scar, its not that noticeable anymore. Ouch, Derek said to Elizabeth as he rubbed his arm. You didnt have to pinch me that hard. Im just trying to save Mallory some money. She touched her left cheek. Whather scar were they being polite? They had to realize the surgery was for her big nose. Or was her scar that bad? Maybe shed been staring so much at her nose, her brain had skipped over her scar. She turned to Seth. Did you wonder why I never mentioned my scar during my office visit? He shook his head. I noticed you scar but didnt think it was important enough to mention it.

Anyhow when you smile, it looks like a dimple instead of a scar. She looked at the others. My scars from a freak accident. I needed thirty stitches when I cut my cheek. Im having rhinoplasty. Ive never liked my nose. Im guessing both Heather and Elizabeth knew about your surgery, Derek said. I told them but asked them to keep it quiet. Can I watch the surgery? Derek asked. She grinned at Derek. Sure, if you pay me a thousand dollars. Maybe I can get a few others to watch, so I can pay for the surgery without getting a loan. Seth chuckled. Sorry to disappoint you, Derek, but I no longer operate in a teaching hospital. I have my own medical facility with no viewing windows to observe. How can I get them off the topic of my surgery? She noticed there were empty cups so talking about coffee refills should work. Mallory stood. Would anyone like more coffee?

Chapter Twelve Jeremy said, Id like another cup but I can get it. Ill just bring the pot out here. When it gets too chilly for everyone, we can go inside and play a board game. Mallory grinned at Seth. And Seth gets to pick the game since its his birthday. Ladies against guys, Derek said. That sounds so unfair for you guys. Elizabeth tapped Dereks shoulder. You know well beat you. Ill get the coffee while you decide if you want to play Taboo, Outburst, or Catch Phrase. Jeremy stood, picking up the plates closest to him. Ill follow you. I have a favor to ask of you. What favor could Jeremy want from her? Hed told Elizabeth and Derek about counseling couples. Maybe he planned on asking her to tell them what to avoid in a marriage, so they didnt end up divorced. As she took the plates from him, Jeremy said,

I learned today that were short of volunteers for vacation Bible school. Im not sure when your surgery is, but Im hoping youll be available to teach a class. Its a five day program and of course, Josh can attend. My surgerys scheduled for June third. Whens your Bible school? The last week of June. She rinsed off the plates Jeremy had brought in for her. Id like to help you out, but I might be flying to Las Vegas that week with Josh to visit Toby. Will you know soon? Were having a hard time because so many of the mothers have their jobs during the day. I think next year we should switch to an evening Bible school. She gave a quick nod. Ours is in the evening for that very reason. You might check with Heather to see if she knows anyone whos free during the day. Geez, was she being too obvious at trying to throw Heather and Jeremy together? She picked up the coffeepot. Could you serve the coffee while I get the games?

Sure. Mallory sighed after Jeremy left. Did he ask her to help with Bible school, so he could spend time with her? After seeing how he had enjoyed talking to Heather, she thought he was definitely interested in her friend. But now, she didnt know what to think. If only his church held the vacation school at night, Heather couldve taught a class or helped with crafts even. She was a crafty person anyhow and made all kinds of cool gifts for birthdays and other holidays. She walked to the study to get the board games out of the closet. Hey, thats it. She could suggest Heather help with the crafts at Bible school by assembling what the kids needed for each days art. Or Heather could collect the supplies and deliver them to the church. With the games in her arms, she returned to the kitchen. Jeremy put the pot back on the burner pad, and said, I poured you a cup too. Thanks, Jeremy. I just thought how Heather makes great crafts and is an artsy person. I bet she

could help by getting the supplies and making the samples for the art projects. Im sure she could deliver the stuff to you. He raised his eyebrows. Im sorry if Ive made you uncomfortable by mentioning you teaching a class. I need to say something here You didnt make me feel uncomfortable. I would teach if I thought Id be here. I think I should tell you how for a long time I thought of you as the one who got away. I was disappointed when you married Toby. Obviously, I was attracted to you and I knew youd make the perfect ministers wife, but But not now since Im divorced. He shook his head. No, youre a wonderful Christian. It wasnt your fault. Toby was the one who cheated. He treated you badly when he did that. He is the one that didnt honor the marriage vows. I wish you wouldnt be so hard on yourself. Being divorced makes me feel like I failed. God knows sometimes a divorce is the only answer. Jeremy ran his fingers through his brown

hair. What I was trying to say is Im not asking you to teach so we can spend time together, but because I know youd do a good job, and we really need teachers. You dont have to worry about me hitting on you again. She smiled at him. Thats a relief. No, seriously, I have wondered at times if I made mistake years ago, but I fell in love with Toby before I met you. Since were being honest here, I might as well tell you the reason for this dinner. Elizabeth planned this evening in hopes we might start dating. But now that we have that settled, I know someone who might like to get to know you better. He grinned at her. Yeah, you havent been too obvious in talking about Heather. I hope youre interested in her. Im glad shes talked to me this evening. In the past, shes never said very much to me. Im going to ask her out for a date, so your matchmaking attempts have worked. She suddenly realized why hed asked Heather for her number. Oh, I get it. You asked Heather

for my number because you wanted to ask me about teaching vacation Bible school. She thought you were still interested in me. She took a hand off the games in her arms and gave him a shove. Lets get back outside before they start pairing us off again. Im glad you want to date Heather. I know she likes you. *** Mallory put the last plate away in the cupboard before turning around to look at Seth. Were all done cleaning up. Thank you for staying to help. You shouldnt have had to though. You were a guest, plus its your birthday. Seths eyes met hers. No problem. I enjoyed tonight even though the guys lost. I like your friends. Even Derek. She folded a kitchen towel. Well, I dont think of Derek as being my friend. Im nice to him because hes engaged to Elizabeth. Sometimes I think theres something shady about him. I think Dereks okay but he does open his

mouth a lot. Man, I wish Id been the one to say that Mallory was a wonderful woman. And how Toby hadnt loved her the way she shouldve been loved. That was pretty swell what he said about you. He surprised me when he was so nice. She put her hand on the refrigerator handle. How about another piece of cheesecake? I bet you have room for it. Id love another piece. Thanks. Are you a milk person? I think a glass of cold milk will hit the spot. Its a little late for coffee and I dont have any decaf. He nodded. I like milk. Good. She opened the refrigerator and took a gallon off the shelf. Seth took glasses out of the cupboard. He liked being in Mallorys kitchen. It was bright and cheery like her. You have a great house. She laughed as she put the cake on small plates. I wish Elizabeth could hear you. She feels sorry for me because Toby has a huge new house while I stayed in our smaller one, but Ive always

loved this place. They went into the living room with their milk and cheesecake. He sat right next to her on the small couch. No way was he going to sit across the room in a chair. After they ate a few bites in silence, Mallory said, Sorry you missed celebrating with your family and friends. The funny thing is Jeremys not even interested in me anymore. Im happy to say hes going to ask Heather out soon, I hope. She likes him. Im glad Mallory hadnt realized that Jeremy was over her before the dinner. I hope you arent sorry you invited me now, he teased. I went out to eat with my parents and sister for lunch. My closest friends are out of town, so you did me a big favor by having me here on my birthday. She cleared her throat. Are you sure its safe for me to have my nose surgery? He hated the uncertainty in her eyes when he knew how much she wanted him to operate. He needed to reassure her, yet he had to be honest. I feel very confident that everything will go well and

nothings going to happen to you like that young girl. Ive never lost a patient, but to be honest, theres always a small risk involved whenever surgerys performed. How many rhinoplasty procedures have you done? Ive done at least one hundred. Its one of the most popular procedures. She gave him a broad smile. Im surprised you didnt remind me how youre the best in the area. Hey, I dont like to brag. She put her empty plate on the coffee table. Being a Christian, Im not afraid of dying, but I have to be positive in my heart that nothing will go wrong because of Josh. I dont want him raised by Toby. Isnt Toby a good father? He couldnt imagine Mallory once being married to Toby if he wasnt. Tobys a great father except he wouldnt take Josh to church. Toby believes in God but only goes to church on Christmas and Easter. Hes not

interested in having a deeper relationship with the Lord. And I like Josh going to our Christian school. Im not so sure Toby would continue Joshs education there. He put his hand on her leg and felt a shot of desire for Mallory. He had it bad for her. Why had Henry and Rebecca gone away for the weekend? His friend was the only person he could talk to about his feelings for Mallory. He didnt think it would be wise to talk to his parents about her yet. His mother would pump him with tons of questions which he couldnt answer now. Maybe hed give his sister a call and tell her about Mallory. You have to get your pre-op done, so you can voice your concerns to your own family doctor. I feel safe in telling you that nothings going to stop you from raising Josh, but I got worried when Jeremy mentioned what just happened to that poor girl. I do trust you as a surgeon and He waited for a moment, wondering how else she trusted him. Was she going to say as a friend? If they eventually started dating, being her friend

would be a good beginning for their relationship. He stretched his legs and bumped the coffee table. Out of the corner of his eye, Seth saw that hed jarred a vase of flowers. He leaned closer quickly, grabbing the flowers. He left out a deep breath. I was afraid the vase would break. Its not your fault. I shouldve moved the table. She glanced at his legs. You have long limbs. Seth examined the vase. Where did you get this? Its pretty with the hand painted flowers. I bet my mom would like one. I could get her a vase for Mothers Day. My grandmother was an artist, and she painted vases. She gave them to me before she died. You can look at them and pick one out for your mom. Are you sure you want to part with one? Im not sure I should take a vase. I want to give you one. I wouldnt feel right taking one of your grandmothers vases without paying you for it. She grinned. You can always deduct money

from the fee for my surgery. After all, I couldve raked some money from Derek if you allowed observers. She stood. Follow me. I have them in a closet. After leading him into the study, she walked to the closet and opened the white door. Vases of every size filled the closet. This is incredible. He looked at her. Did you get your grandmothers artistic talent? She laughed. Im afraid not. I can barely draw stick figures. Forty-five minutes later, Seth stood at Mallorys front door. Hed finally written her a check and told her not to look at it until he left. Hed selected a large vase with painted cherry blossoms plus a matching jar for herbs. His mom had an herb garden, so he knew shed be excited about his gift. He wanted to kiss Mallory. Surely a peck on the cheek should be appropriate with him being at her house. He was not her doctor at the moment. He leaned down to her. His lips brushed her cheek, and Mallory pulled him closer to her.

She whispered, Heres a birthday kiss for you. With her in his arms, he felt Mallorys breasts against his chest. When their lips met, energy surged through him. Maybe it was only a birthday kiss, but he hoped that it could be the beginning for something much more. He could see them as a couple. But was there a chance of this happening? He had no way of knowing if hed get the opportunity to date Mallory after she recovered from her surgery, but he knew one thing for sure. He never wanted Mallory to think his only interest in her was as her surgeon. He wanted so much more from this incredible woman.

Chapter Thirteen Im so happy you called, Mallory said to Heather. Her friends call had given her a way out of an embarrassing situation. What had possessed her to kiss Seth? Shed just made a fool of herself. Hed probably think now that she was using him to get a discount on her plastic surgery. Attacking her surgeon probably wasnt a good thing. She just had to pick a hottie for a doctor plus a very available man. But hed kissed her back and pulled her into his arms. I just had to call you. Heather continued in an excited voice, Jeremy and I went for a walk after we left your place. Were going boating next Saturday on the Blanchard River. Mallory, youre the best. Thank you for talking to him tonight. When I saw him at the hospital, I was quiet around him because I thought he wanted to ask you out. Jeremy didnt lose any time. Hes definitely interested in you. She bet itd be the longest seven days for Heather. Do you think you can wait a

whole week? Heather laughed. I dont have to. Hes going to the hospital again on Monday to visit one of his church members. He wants to have lunch with me. Would Heather start going to Jeremys church instead? She enjoyed having brunch with Heather after their church service. Before Alan entered her moms life, itd been Heather and her mom going to brunch with her and Josh. Will you be at church tomorrow? Yes, dont worry. Im not ditching you and Josh. I might go to Jeremys church sometime, but I dont want to switch now. I dont think itd be too great for me to start going to his church already. Im being selfish but I love our brunches. Derek and Elizabeth are always together on Sunday, Moms with Alan and soon youll be with Jeremy on Sunday. She gave a short laugh. But Joshs stuck with me yet. Hey, Im not planning on making any changes yet. And whats up with you? I hear the fake perkiness in your voice that you get when youre

down about something. Should she tell Heather about kissing Seth? Sure, she needed to talk to someone about what happened. Its about Seth. Im sorry I called while Seth was still there. I couldnt wait to call you to tell you my good news, but things must have gone well for you. Seth stayed late enough. She sighed. Oh Heather, I did something stupid and impulsive. Right before you called, I kissed Seth. First, he gave me a little peck on the cheek. It was like a thank you gesture for inviting him. But I had to go and pull him closer to me. Then I kissed him on his lips. I told him it was a birthday kiss. Im sure he kissed you back. Right? Yes, he did. I dont think you have anything to worry about. He likes you. Mallory, listen to me. When you went into the house with Jeremy, I saw how Seth watched you. And he wasnt looking at you like your surgeon, but the way a guy does when hes crazy about the woman.

We shouldnt be kissing. Hes going to operate on me. And I feel weird since my lips havent touched another guys mouth for over ten years. Toby was the only one for me for a long time. How can you even think that way? Especially since Toby has a girlfriend. Hes moved on with his life and you should too. Heathers voice dropped. I dont want to hurt you but I had to say it. I hate it that Toby and Samantha are a couple, but I still cant believe what I did. I dont care if some time in the future Toby gets married, but just surprised hes already serious about Samantha. We havent been divorced that long. Its an ego thing that he has so quickly latched on to another woman. First Lacey, then Samantha Toby is history. Your ego should be feeling pretty darn good right about now. A hot guy just came to your party to be with you, and he kissed you. Why did she kiss Seth? What was she thinking? Should she have the surgery when Seth didnt just

see her as his patient? Things were getting too complicated. Also the girl dying after having plastic surgery still concerned her. So many things to worry about. But what bothered the most was that she had liked kissing Seth. Very much. *** After Seth finished making a few phone calls to patients, he leaned back in his recliner. It was so comfortable that sometimes he fell asleep in it and felt like an old guy at age thirty-six. Oh, thats right, Im thirty-seven years old now. Last year Leanne had been a big part of his life. Theyd gone out to dinner and a movie for his birthday. Sometimes he couldnt believe Leanne had broken their engagement. He wondered if she ever missed him, or regretted her decision. Probably not. When Leanne had told him that it was over between them, shed been in a hurry to leave Toledo and to move to Florida.

He glanced at the wall clock and saw it was only two oclock. He had nothing planned for the whole Sunday afternoon. Maybe I should call Mallory. I could use the vases for an excuse and thank her again. He shouldve had her wrap them for him. Shed offered to but hed hated to impose. He couldnt stop thinking about their kiss. Why did Heather have to call Mallory at the moment they kissed? Although her kiss had surprised him, he hadnt wanted it to end. It had felt so right. Was she sorry though? Shed looked embarrassed as she ran to answer the phone. Okay, he wanted to see Mallory in the worst way. He needed to think of something to say that would get her to agree to see him today. Would Mallory object to him picking up some food and visiting her again so soon? Hed like to meet Josh, and she could wrap the vases. *** Mallory stared at Josh curled up on the blue sofa. Hed gone to sleep watching television, but

she wasnt surprised. Hed already had a busy day with getting up early to go to church and driving to brunch. She gently moved a lock of blond hair off his forehead. It wouldnt hurt for her little boy to take a Sunday afternoon nap. Shed love to have ten more children just like Josh. Well, maybe not ten but shed definitely never expected to have an only child. Growing up, shed always wanted a sibling. And more than a visiting father a few times a year. Theyd gotten out of church later than usual because a missionary had showed slides from his recent trip to Africa. Instead of waiting to be seated at the crowded IHOP, Heather had suggested they go to the higher priced restaurant for their brunch. After they ordered, Josh saw his father eating at a nearby table with Samantha. Hed asked, Mommy, why is Daddy always with Samantha? Because he likes her. She didnt add what shed seen after leaving Tobys house in the morning. Shed just picked up Josh for church when shed glanced in her rear

view mirror as she drove away. She saw Samanthas car pulling into the driveway. Apparently, shed been waiting for them to leave so she could see Toby. Had Toby told Samantha to wait until they left, so his ex-wife and son wouldnt see his girlfriend arriving early Sunday morning? What did this meanthat Samantha was more important than making an effort to go with them to church? Then seeing Samantha again at the restaurant had bothered her. She agreed with Joshs comment, Id like Daddy to eat with us. Since Toby missed their family night, he couldve eaten brunch with them. Fortunately, a few minutes later, Toby and Samantha finished eating. On their way out of the restaurant, they stopped briefly to say hello. She exhaled a deep breath, remembering how Joshs lower lip trembled when Toby had said good-bye. How would Josh survive for weeks without seeing Toby in June? Plus hed be out of school, so would have more free time except for the days spent at the lake house. She wished Jeff

didnt need Tobys legal help. Maybe Toby would cancel his trip to Las Vegas if she told him that Josh needed him to stay. Get real, Mallory. Tobys not going to let a fraternity brother down even if Joshs heartbroken at his fathers absence. When the phone rang, she ran to answer it quickly, so it wouldnt wake Josh. It was Seth. Seth, I cant cash your check. Two hundred dollars for my grandmothers vase is too much. Shed expected to see the check made out for around fifty dollars and might have accepted that amount. But I took the jar too. If I had to buy hand painted glassware in the store, Id have to pay a lot. This gift will mean more to my mother knowing your grandmother did the art work. She laughed. Why would that make a difference to your mother? My grandmother wasnt a famous artist. Well, shell still be impressed that your grandmother did such beautiful work. I feel like Im getting off cheap here and shouldve given you more, so to make it up to you, Ill pick up

something for us to eat. When she didnt say anything, he continued, Ill even bring the vase and jar, so you can wrap them. Hey, I offered to gift wrap last night. So Im a guy and realize now I cant wrap. She walked to the doorway so she could see Josh. Good, he was still sleeping. Thats sweet of you but probably not a good idea right now. We saw Toby today with his girlfriend when we stopped to eat after church, and it upset Josh. Im afraid that Josh doesnt like it that Tobys with someone other than us. It might be too much for him to have you visit. Im sorry that happened but I can No, I think Josh might get upset if he saw me with another guy. Ive never dated since the divorce. She cleared her throat. I know its not the same thing with us as it is with Toby and Samantha, but Josh wont understand that. I liked my birthday kiss. She was afraid hed bring up her kiss. Shed play it casual and blow it off as not being a big deal. Im impulsive sometimes. I dont want you

to get the wrong idea that the kiss meant something. It wont happen again. I like impulsive women. Once I accidentally kissed Joshs pediatrician. I leaned down to kiss my baby on his cheek, and at the same moment, the doctor leaned closer to Josh. Instead of kissing Josh, I planted a kiss on the doctors face. I was so embarrassed. But it wasnt an accident you kissing me. I think you enjoyed it as much as I did. He was right. The kiss was wonderful, but had left her feeling weak and confused. It reminded her of the dream where shed kissed Seth while on the operating table. Dreaming of kissing Seth was one thing, but now that it had actually happened, socializing with him had to stop. Im glad you came last night, but its best we dont see each other again until the surgery. I have a lot to focus on right now the end of school is coming up soon, Joshs leaving for the lake, I need to make arrangements for Las Vegas, and of course, my surgery. How many students do you have?

Seventy-five. I teach sixth through eighth grade. Theyre lucky to have such a dedicated teacher. If you think of any questions about the surgery, please call me. Or if you decide not to have the surgery, let me know. I respect your wish to have it, but if you decide not to, thats fine too. He gave a little laugh. Definitely call me if you want to talk about kissing. She sighed. You arent making this easy on me. After the surgery, maybe we can have coffee again. After they said good-bye, she leaned against the wall for support. She didnt feel good about her decision. Wasnt it for the best not to see Seth before the surgery? If it was, then why did she feel sad?

Chapter Fourteen The following Friday evening, Mallory joined Elizabeth and Heather at Olive Garden. Mallory looked directly at her friends eating their salads, and then saw a basket of breadsticks on the table. Dont let me eat more than one breadstick. Im going to eat it as slowly as possible to savor each morsel of bread. Elizabeth rolled her eyes. Oh please. You look great. Mallory grinned. I think you want to tempt me by picking my favorite place. Hey, I love their food too. Derek never wants to eat here. He says its too expensive for just pasta. We also pick it frequently because youre always running late, and Olive Garden happens to be the closest to your house. Heather patted Mallorys arm. Im sorry Im late. Thanks for going ahead and ordering for me. She had called Elizabeth on her

cell phone, asking her to order the low fat Capellini Pomodoro. Id been on time if Toby hadnt been late in picking up Josh for the weekend. But I have some news. Hes not going to leave for Vegas for another couple of weeks. So does that mean Toby will be away by Memorial Day weekend? Elizabeth asked. Mallory nodded. Im looking forward to having Josh the whole weekend before he leaves with Tobys parents to go to the lake house. My parents are going away, so if you two dont have plans, how about we have a picnic and go swimming? Elizabeth sipped her water. Is it okay if I invite Jeremy? Heather asked. Elizabeth rubbed her chin. Geez, I dont know Heather laughed. Thanks. Ill invite him. Nice try though acting like you had to think about it. Elizabeth turned her face to Mallory. Seth seemed to enjoy the barbecue a lot, so you should ask him too. Great, Seth had to be mentioned, she thought. She hadnt told Elizabeth about their kiss. She

frowned. I dont think thats a good idea Elizabeth sighed. I know. You have this crazy notion in your head that you cant see anyone because you got divorced. I hate to be blunt but Seths a great guy. Dont waste time avoiding him. You deserve to be happy and have a guy in your life. She folded her napkin, not wanting to look at her friends. Seth was a wonderful man and yes, shed admit her heart fluttered whenever she heard his voice. But she was a mature woman with a child and a job. She couldnt afford to see Seth again on a personal level. Not just because he was her surgeon, but because she knew in her heart it might develop into a relationship that she couldnt handle. It scared her to be thinking so much about him when theyd just met. Should she mention the kiss to Elizabeth? Okay, I might as well tell you. When Seth went to leave last Saturday, he kissed me on the cheek and That was sweet he gave you a little kiss, Elizabeth said. Mallory shrugged. It didnt stop there. I kissed

him right on his lips, and told him that it was a birthday kiss. Elizabeths eyebrows rose. I cant believe you didnt mention it when I called you the other day. Probably because Ive been rushed this past week. This last month of school has been crazy with trying to cover the remainder chapters in their literature books. We got behind this year with all the snow and late arrival days because of the weather. What was Seths reaction when you kissed him? Elizabeth nibbled on a breadstick. He looked happy and pleased. Fortunately, Heather called right after I kissed him, so I told him good-bye and answered the phone. But he called me on Sunday and wanted to bring food and meet Josh. I told him no because Josh had already been upset when he saw Toby with Samantha at the restaurant after church. Heather wiped her lips with a napkin after eating the last bite of salad. Seth can meet Josh if you invite him for our Memorial Day picnic.

She shook her head. I dont want to encourage him. Ill admit Im attracted to Seth. I mean itd be hard not to be. Hes fun to be with and very goodlooking. And hes available, Elizabeth added. Mallory took a bite of salad. But I dont feel like I am. Toby and I pledged our love to each other in the Lords house. Marriages sacred and even though we both wanted the divorce, I still feel I shouldve done more to keep Toby interested in me. And maybe then he wouldnt have had an affair. She had to convince Elizabeth because she was starting to doubt herself. She hadnt talked to Seth since Sunday, and she missed their conversations. She even went to his website so she could see his face. I know this wont happen but suppose after you and Derek are married, he decides to divorce you. Wouldnt you have a hard time seeing someone else? Elizabeth waited a long moment before answering. Youre right. I wouldnt be happy if Derek decided to divorce me. Id feel like a failure and I never like to fail at anything. I suppose that I

wouldnt want to rush into another relationship immediately. Theres another reason you might take time to think about dating Seth. Heather fingered her silver necklace. If you two continue to see each other before the surgery, it might be hard on him to operate on you. I think youre wise to get back on a professional leveluntil after your surgery anyhow. I think its too late to worry about that. Elizabeth grinned at Mallory. Dr. Whitman already has a thing for his patient. Just think he took you out for coffee after hed just met you in his office. Then he came to your house and wanted to again on Sunday. Plus you two have been calling, emailing and texting each other. You both are right, but Im sure hell still feel comfortable doing my nose job. I cant switch to another surgeon. Seths the best in our area. Ella raves how happy she is with the surgery he did on her nose. She grinned. Plus I already paid half the fee. She had a small savings account which

eventually was to be used for a new roof. Fortunately, the twenty-year-old roof didnt need to be replaced yet. She still needed to come up with another three thousand. The business manager said that the balance had to be paid a week before her surgery. I can still drive you, Heather said. Just let me know for sure soon, so I can take the day off. Thanks, she said, but Ill see first if Mom can take me. Ill try to find out this weekend if Moms able to take a vacation day. Does your mom think youre doing the right thing? Elizabeth asked. Mallory nodded. Shes okay with me having the surgery, but shes worried that Ill be disappointed with the outcome. She reminded me to be realistic in my expectations. Elizabeth winked at her. By the way, theres a definite glow in your eyes. I wonder if kissing Seth has something to do with your radiance. I do feel happier than I have in a long time. Im glad that Seth wants to spend time with me. She sighed. Ive regretted not seeing him on

Sunday. They had texted a few times, so she knew hed been thinking about her too. She missed talking with Seth a lot, and even thought about calling him. Actually she wouldnt mind another kiss from Seth right now. And not one in a dream but the real thing. *** Seth wiped the sweat off his forehead. Man, Henrys creaming me again. This is getting embarrassing. Either youve improved or Ive gotten worse. Henry shook his head. You just arent concentrating. Whats on your mind? He waved his hand around, looking at the court. Not racquetball. Thats for sure. Ive missed Mallory. I thought things were going well between you two. It was. She kissed me before I left her place last Saturday. I called her Sunday and told her I

could pick up some food and drive to her place. I take it the lovely Mallory said no. Seth nodded. Shes pretty concerned about Josh and the impact of him seeing me with her. I guess hed gotten upset when he saw his dad with his girlfriend. Also she said that we shouldnt see each other again until her surgery. She has to focus on all kinds of things. I guess her excuses could be valid. After Henry hit the rubber ball a few times with his racquet, he looked up at Seth. I know how you can date Mallory and get her to stop worrying about Joshs reaction. I know what youre going to say because Ive thought of it too. Henry grinned. Hope her ex marries his girlfriend. Right? He might marry her in Las Vegas. Then she wont be the first one to upset Josh with a new marriage. Henry gave Seth a thoughtful look. Im glad you met Mallory. You were in a bad way after Leanne left.

Remembering Leanne wasnt painful any longer. Meeting Mallory had changed his life in a remarkable and unexpected way. You got that right. I dont miss Leanne the way I did at first. The funny thing is Mallory came to me to improve her appearance, but when I invited her for coffee I was proud of you to make a move so quickly, and it paid off since she asked you to be a guest at her party. I know shes interested in me. Hey, shes the one who kissed me on the mouth. When the times right, Im sure you can convince her that its okay for her to date you. Toby committed adultery. Shes in the clear with God. I hope the times right soon for us. Im crazy about Mallory Harrington. I want her to meet my family. Hopefully, his mom wouldnt disapprove of Mallory. She might not like it that Mallory was divorced and had a child. It was important to him that they liked Mallory. Henry frowned. What about me and Rebecca? Dont you want us to meet Mallory?

Of course, I do. He grinned. And if you dont approve, Ill listen this time. Henry had warned him that Leanne was too controlling which had been true. Henry nudged Seth with his racquet. Come on, lets see what you got. *** At the sound of her phone, Mallory slid her stack of graded tests into a folder, and then grabbed the phone. Hello, peanut, her mom said. She chuckled. Mom, Im thirty-two years old, but I love it when you call me peanut again. Arent you going to say what you used to? Okay, but I only did that in high school. Whats up, walnut? Alan proposed last night. Were getting married the Saturday after Memorial Day weekend. Id like you to be my matron of honor. She knew that Alan had made her mom happy, and thought they might get married, but not already.

Congratulations, Mom. I want to be your matron of honor. I really like Alan, but whats the rush? We want to get married before Alans son, Michael, leaves for Afghanistan in June. With so little time, Im only going to invite a few close friends and relatives. Ill help with everything. Itll be fun working together on your wedding. Her mom had done so much for her through the years. She wanted to help with the wedding plans. It was a shame Grandma wasnt alive to watch her daughter get married to a wonderful guy. Thanks, honey. Im so happy. I thought about telling you tomorrow, but couldnt wait and had to call you. Im glad you didnt wait. We have to get busy. If you arent doing anything this afternoon, we could go and get the invitations. We can get the kind you put the date and etc. in yourself. Theres not enough time to order them. You should get them sent out on Monday. I dont have any plans for this afternoon. We can have lunch together, and then get the

invitations. My treat. That sounds perfect. Ill pick you up since youre buying lunch. She just had a thought and wondered if her mom had forgotten about her surgery. She assumed Alan and Mom would go on a honeymoon. She hated to be selfish but after her surgery, shed wanted her mom to be with her. I better ask their plans because I might need Heather, after all, to drive me for my surgery. Are you going on a honeymoon right after the wedding? Yes, but we wont leave until Wednesday morning. We want to spend time with Michael and his family before we leave, and I want to stay with you on Tuesday after your surgery. Well spend the night at your place, and go to the airport on Wednesday morning. But only if Heather and Elizabeth can stop in the first few days. Her rhinoplasty wasnt on Tuesday but on Wednesday. She hated to make her mom stick around for her surgery before going on their honeymoon. Should she ask Seth if she could move it to Tuesday? She had a teachers work day on

Monday. It was getting so close now though. She doubted it could be changed unless someone scheduled canceled. Mom, whens Michael leaving? He has to leave Monday morning. Go ahead and leave on your honeymoon on Monday then. My surgery isnt on Tuesday anyhow and I was sure you said Tuesday. What day is your surgery? Wednesday. But go ahead and leave after you visit with Michael. You and Alan shouldnt wait around. And Mom, Im so happy for you. But you cant drive yourself home after surgery and you need someone to stay with you. Heathers offered to take off work to take me. Ill be fine. Shed just have Heather drive her to Seths medical facility and back home after her surgery. Really, Heather wouldnt need to take the whole day off work. She knew a person was supposed to be with her for the first twenty-four hours after surgery, but she was in good health. What could go wrong?

And if something did, she should be able to call Seth.

Chapter Fifteen Okay, pour water into this hole, Mallory said to Josh, pointing to the spot where she wanted to put the next flower. Do you like my present? Josh asked. She looked up from the flowerbed and smiled at her son. I love the impatiens you gave me. Thats exactly what I wanted for Mothers Day. I picked red because I know you like red flowers. Josh carefully tipped the watering can. Last night I prayed for another gift for you. It must be special then. What did you pray for? She stuck the flower in the water and pushed dirt around it. I asked God for Daddy to come home and live with us again. I dont want him to marry Samantha. Poor Josh. Theyd tried to make sure their son never felt abandoned and always felt loved by both of them. She never argued with Toby in front of Josh or on the phone. She had an amicable

relationship with her ex. But it was normal for him to want his parents to live together. Well, I love your dad and he loves me, but we werent meant to stay married. Unfortunately, it happens to a lot of couples. He frowned. Daddy kisses Samantha a lot. He loves her more than us. She rubbed her dirty hands on her old jeans and stood. After taking the watering can out of Joshs hands, she put it on the ground and hugged him. Tears filled her eyes. She hated to see her son heartbroken. Toby had told her that his relationship with Samantha wasnt serious. Had he lied to her? Was he planning on marrying Samantha? Why did Toby have to kiss Samantha in front of Josh? Dear God, Please give me the right words to say to Josh. She kissed Joshs forehead before looking directly into his eyes. Your dad will always love you the most because youre his son. Having you makes us so happy that we got married. You dad has told me many times how much he loves you. Mommy, dont cry. I love you.

She lifted the bottom of the T-shirt and wiped her eyes. I love you too. Im okay now. Mommies cry a little sometimes. Im glad you told me how you felt. And remember even though we dont live in the same house any longer, you still have a mom and dad loving you all the time. She leaned over to pick up a flower. Lets finish planting my Mothers Day gift. While shoving the next flower in the hole, she wished again that Toby had never met Samantha. Why couldnt he have given their son more time to adjust to the divorce? Sure, he had every right to become involved with someone, but this was too soon. *** She felt relief that Josh was fast asleep. Maybe calling Toby would ease her mind. But did she have the right to ask him again about Samantha? They were divorced, after all. Josh could be right about his dads feelings for Samantha. Obviously, Toby cared a lot about Samantha because he wanted her to go to Las Vegas to visit him.

When the landline phone rang, she wondered if it could be Toby. Hello, stranger. She recognized Seths voice, which surprised and pleased her at the same time. She hadnt talked to him since the previous Sunday when hed wanted to visit and bring food. Laughing, she said, Im hardly a stranger. We talked a week ago and weve sent texts. Texts arent the same as hearing your voice. I just had to call to tell you that my mom loves the vase and jar. Im her favorite child now so thank you. I love it that I gave her the best gift for Mothers Day. My sister is jealous. So you and sister have sibling rivalry. Thats what I missed out on by being an only child. I imagine having you was enough for your mom. She couldnt resist teasing Seth. Are you saying that I was high maintenance as a child? Not at all. I meant you gave enough joy that she never missed having more children. Nice comeback. She paused for a moment. I

never wanted Josh to be an only child, but Toby didnt want more children. Thats a shame. He cleared his throat. Ive always wanted children. I envy my friend, Henry. They recently had a boy. Tell them to enjoy him because he wont stay a baby for very long. So, Mom, how was your special day? Pretty good. After church, Josh and I met my mother at Applebees. Then we went to a movie. This evening Josh helped me plant the flowers he gave me for Mothers Day, but She dropped her voice as she continued, We had a few sad moments because Josh told me about his dads girlfriend. Is he afraid hell have a stepmother? Maybe that and he thinks that Toby loves Samantha more than us because he saw Toby kiss her. Im sorry. I know the divorce has been rough on Josh. It is but Im glad you called. Its nice to talk to another adult about it. I thought about calling

Heather or Elizabeth, but I didnt feel like bothering them again about the whole Toby problem. They dont need to hear about my failed marriage all the time. She paused for a moment. I shouldnt be dumping on you, either. How have you been? I had something unexpected happen today. My former fiance called me. Leanne feels now that she made a mistake in breaking our engagement. She also wants to go boating with my family over Memorial Day weekend. Was romance in the air? First, she had to hear about Samantha kissing Toby and now Seths fiance wanted him back. And she realized something importantshe didnt want Seth to get back together with Leanne. How do you feel about that? About boating? Yeah, I want to know your deep feelings about her going boating with you. She exhaled a deep breath. I wish you were next to me right now so I could pounce on you. I want to know how you feel about getting back with Leanne.

He chuckled. I had to tease you. I wish we were next to each other too. Id like another birthday kiss from you. Your birthdays over. I might give you a kiss if you do a good job on my nose. Well, not right away. The splint will get in the way. So I take it, that you arent interested in being engaged again? She had to get a definite no from Seth. Not to Leanne anyhow. Im glad she broke our engagement. Seth might enjoy kissing her, but would he ever be interested in marrying her? She wondered how he felt about divorced women. And could she ever feel right about getting married to someone again? Are you still there? Seth asked. She might as well be honest with Seth. I was just thinking about you not wanting Leanne back in your life. That seems like a good decision. I know you said you dont want to see me before the surgery, but how about making one little exception and go boating with my family on the holiday? It sounds like fun but my mom asked me

yesterday to be her matron of honor. Shes getting married on the Saturday after Memorial Day weekend, so Im thinking of having a little bachelorette party sometime during the holiday weekend. Maybe go to the spa and to dinner. Nothing wild, of course. Tell her congratulations for me. She wants to stick around to drive me on the day of my surgery, but I told her to go ahead and leave for their honeymoon. Maybe Heather or Elizabeth can drive you. She laughed. I had originally planned on Heather driving me before I met you. I thought about fixing her up with you since you both are in the medical field. In an amused voice, he said, I remember how you asked if I was dating anyone. I guess I should date a nurse or a doctor. Leannes an accountant and that didnt work out. Seth had to be kidding. He hadnt seemed interested in Heather at the barbecue. Actually Heather told me that you might fall in love with me. Geez, why did she blurt that out? Because

you dont want him seeing Heather instead of you. What if I do fall in love with you? How would that make you feel? Her answer had to be right and truthful, but still she hesitated in replying. I no longer want you and Heather to become a couple. When your surgerys done, you better be ready because Im going to be more than your surgeon. Id like to take you out on a real date. Have you dated other patients? No. And youre the only one I want to. I believe God wanted us to meet. We have something special between us, and itd be wrong to deny our feelings for each other. I could bring you the vitamin packet tonight. You need to start taking Vitamin B and C each day for a week before surgery. Then you continue for a week after the surgery. My office usually sends the vitamins, but Id like to see you. She remembered the two vitamins helped the tissues heal after surgery. Yes, they could be sent, but she wanted to see Seth and Josh was fast

asleep. Glancing at the time, she saw that it was nine oclock. Its getting late. Dont you have surgery early tomorrow morning? I dont have any surgery scheduled for tomorrow. There wont be much traffic on Sunday night and I can get there before ten. Ill just stay a short time. I know you have school tomorrow. Joshs asleep but what if he wakes up? Im not sure what to tell him if he sees you. How would she explain who Seth was to Josh? She planned on telling Josh about her surgery after it was over. She wanted him to have a good time at the lake with his grandparents and not worry about her. If he wakes up, tell him that I had something to drop off for you. Obviously, Seth wanted to see her. Hed used the vitamin packet for an excuse to drive from Toledo when it could be sent to her. She couldnt say no to him. Youre the one doing the driving so if you dont mind, then its okay with me. If you want to give me a kiss for delivering your vitamins, I wont object.

Thirty-five minutes later, she opened the door to let Seth in the house. Im glad you came. After handing her the small vitamin packet, he smiled. I have to admit that Ive never made a delivery to a patient before. I appreciate it. She dropped the vitamins on the end table. Would you like something to drink? He shook head. How about a kiss instead? Seth didnt wait for her answer and pulled her toward him, wrapping her in his arms. Before his lips touched hers, he said, This was all I could think about while I was driving having you in my arms. Feelings of happiness washed over her at his words. Her body reacted strongly while pressed against Seths. He tipped her chin up and gave her a sweet kiss. Then his lips nibbled on her neck before caressing her lips. When his tongue swirled in, she didnt protest. He took her breath away, making her want more. When they stopped kissing, he said, Mallory, Im so glad we met.

I need to sit down. I feel weak. On the sofa, she rested her head on his shoulder. Youre the first man Ive kissed since Toby. Id like to make a habit of kissing you. She raised her head, grasping his hand. Hold on, Romeo. Can you handle being my doctor when were obviously physically attracted to each other? I dont know about you, but my emotions are getting pretty involved here. He grinned. Dont be afraid to say youre hot for me. Okay, Dr. Whitman, Ill admit it. Im hot for you. She sighed. I guess I better get another doctor. Who do you recommend? You dont need to go to another surgeon. If I thought I couldnt do your surgery, Id tell you. His blue eyes met her green eyes. I was attracted to you when you came in for your first visit. Thats why I took you out for coffee. I talked to my friend Henry how I should keep our relationship strictly a patient-doctor one, but that it was going to be hard. I liked you from the beginning too.

Im confident Ill be able to operate on you and give you a nose youll be happier with. But if you have any doubt, I understand. I believe you. I want you to do my surgery. Hopefully, they wouldnt make out before surgery. If her body kept responding to Seth like it was now, she might end up canceling the surgery to smother him with kisses right in the operating room instead. I cant go elsewhere when youre the best rhinoplasty surgeon. Channel 13 is coming this week to film a segment about having plastic surgery. Theyre going to tape one of my rhinoplasty surgeries. Ill explain how I shape and mold the new nose to fit the patients features so it looks natural. So Ive been kissing a celebrity. Youll have to tell me when they show this on TV. I definitely want to see it. Seth gently touched her cheek. I wont stay long, but I need a few kisses before I hit the road. She smiled mischievously at Seth. I guess Im up for some kisses.

*** Monday morning, Mallory texted Elizabeth and Heather between classes about her Sunday night visitor. Immediately, both friends texted back, wanting to know if Seth was said visitor. During her planning period, Mallory pulled her cell phone out of her bag when she heard the ringtone. She glanced and saw it was Elizabeth. She answered, laughing. I knew youd call first. Im sure Heathers call will follow. Its all your fault, Elizabeth. The dinner party started everything. Hey, you wanted to invite Seth. I was trying to fix you up with Jeremy, but I really like Seth. Hes a sweetie. Just the kind of guy you deserve. Give me details fast about last night. Things got a bit heated between us. Im a little concerned about him working on my nose now that we have strong feelings for each other. But he insists that it wont be a problem. Truthfully, I dont think it will be. Seths a professional. But its your nose. If you feel

uncomfortable about him doing the procedure, then go to another doctor. She tapped her pen on the desk. I have another problem. I can see us getting serious but Im struggling with the whole idea of ever getting married again. Its okay for you to fall in love. Youre not married to Toby any longer. Thank goodness. God understands that it was out of your control. If you hadnt divorced him, hed be cheating on you again. You did the right thing and its time for you to go on with your life. Toby certainly has. I hope so because Im already crazy about Seth.

Chapter Sixteen Seth missed Mallory. Sure, they had talked by phone daily to each other. But unfortunately, he hadnt seen her in person. They hadnt been alone since hed taken her vitamins to her. Last weekend she took her mom and her friends to the spa for a girls time together before the wedding. And hed had more than the usual amount of surgeries scheduled because his annual trip in June was coming up soon. Mallorys teaching load increased with tests and essays to grade before the end of the school year. He glanced down at his arm. He definitely couldnt see her now. But maybe it was just as well. When he was around her, it was too hard to keep his hands off the lovely Mallory. Seth positioned an ice pack on his right elbow. Unbelievable, his first injury from playing racquetball and it had to happen now. Only a few days left in May, then itd be June and I operate on Mallory. Well, at least my arms not broken.

Hopefully, the pain will leave if I follow doctors orders about icing it and wearing a sling as much as possible for the next five days. He didnt want any distractions from his elbow tendonitis while performing the rhinoplasty procedure on Mallory. He glanced down at the pack. Please, Lord, heal my elbow completely before Mallorys surgery. And bless me with the skill to create a natural nose for her. One that shell love. Of course, Lord, if she changes her mind, thats okay with me. The phone rang and he saw it was Henry. His friend knew hed gone to see the doctor before going to work. Seth answered, You better check up on me after you insisted on playing racquetball again yesterday. Im sorry. I think we played too long. We arent twenty-one any longer. No, its my fault. I was kidding you, he said. I had a sharp pain while we played and should have spoken up, but I didnt want to appear a wimp. I bet you made a wrong move and pulled

something. How did work go? Pretty easy. I just had a nose splint to remove and saw a few patients. Hed taken the sling off for a short time while working. I didnt have any surgeries scheduled for today. Monday will be a light day because a couple of patients called in today to cancel their surgeries. Are you going to mention your injury to Mallory? Henry asked. I doubt Ill talk to her. Her moms getting married tomorrow. And Mallory doesnt need to know. She might worry Ill cancel on her. How would Mallory react if he told her? He guessed shed be concerned about getting her nose reduced in time to go to Las Vegas. Henry chuckled. I dont know. From what youve told me about Mallory, I think you should call her. I bet shell rush to your place to take care of you. Dont blow an opportunity to get her to play nurse. After he got off the phone with Henry, he didnt call Mallory. Sure, hed love to see her but it was better this way. He needed to concentrate on

keeping his arm iced. But after the surgery, he planned on things being different. He wanted to see Mallory all the time. Maybe he should move to Findlay. He knew deep down she cared about him, but that she worried about getting serious. She was afraid to get married again. Toby had hurt her deeply. Personally, he thought Toby was crazy to have an affair while married to Mallory. But Tobys loss might be his gain. Hey, he had to think positive because he realized something important. He loved Mallory. Hed just put the ice pack back into the freezer when his phone rang. Before answering he glanced at the caller ID and couldnt believe it. Mallory was calling him. With her surgery only a few days away, was she having second thoughts? Was she going to cancel? Hi, Seth. Did you eat yet? No. I thought about ordering a pizza. Were leaving for Toledo soon. We just had the wedding rehearsal. Alan made reservations at a swanky restaurant. And I thought it was time to feed you again.

Here I thought you were calling to cancel your surgery. She laughed. I did have one of those moments where I considered stopping payment on my second check. I kept staring at myself in the bathroom mirror and thought maybe I should keep the nose God created for me, but then I talked to my mom. She said it was time I did something for myself. And shes right. The money part bothered him. Hed seen the older car she drove. He needed to somehow lower the price of her surgery, but shed balk at him giving her a lower price. Or maybe he could make sure Sharon didnt cash her check. The second half was due a week before surgery, so his office manager might have already handled it. About the price of your surgery, if your check hasnt cleared yet, Ill hold it and Mom gave me money for it. She didnt mention helping me before because shed loaned several thousand to her sister. But Aunt Corrine recently paid her back. That was really great of your mom.

Back to our dinner plans. Mom wants to meet you since she wont be here when I have my surgery. I think shell feel better about everything once she sees you in person. Oh, crap. Seeing her daughters surgeon wearing a sling might not be reassuring. She probably wants to see if Im worth my fee which I understand. I dont think I can meet you for dinner, but Please try. Shell feel even more guilt about leaving on her honeymoon if she doesnt get to talk to you. She might decide to delay their trip. You dont want to be responsible for that, do you? Okay, Ill tell you why Im hesitating. I hurt my arm playing racquetball yesterday. Its no big deal and isnt broken but I need to wear a sling and ice it for a few days. Im sorry you got hurt. She gave a little laugh. Thats one way to try and get out of doing my surgery. Ill be able to do your surgery. No problem. I just have elbow tendonitis. He did want to go to dinner and meet Mallorys mom. Ill go to dinner

and not wear my sling. Is it your right or left arm? she asked. Its my right. I dont want your mom to see my arm in a sling so I wont wear it. It wont hurt not to wear it for a few hours. No, itll be fine. I dont want you to leave it off. Is Josh going? Hed enjoy meeting her young son, but before she hadnt wanted to explain to Josh that he was her surgeon. He probably wouldnt get to meet Josh this time. Hes going to eat pizza with my future stepfathers grandchildren. Hold on a sec. Ill check and see if we can pick you up. Seth started to tell her that he didnt want to be any trouble, but he wasnt fast enough. A couple of minutes later, she returned. Itll be easier if I pick you. I just need directions to your place. *** After the rehearsal dinner, Mallory drove Seth

back to his house. Once inside, she pointed to Seths couch. You sit while I get you an ice pack for your arm. I can get it. She looked over her shoulder before walking into the kitchen. Nope. Thats why I decided to drive, so I could make sure you take good care of your injury. I want you in top form on Wednesday. I enjoyed dinner. Your mom and Alan are great people. Mallory put a small towel around the pack before placing it under his elbow. As she bent over him, her dress tightened at the movement. He saw the outline of her nipples through the purple fabric. And that wasnt all. The view of her lovely breasts suffocated him. He yearned to touch them. When her fingers touched his arm, he felt another jolt of passion. Henry had been right about using his injury to get special attention from Mallory. Would he be too obvious if he patted the spot next to him? Maybe shed pointed for him to sit on the couch instead of his chair because her plan was to sit beside him.

I like your house, Mallory said, glancing around his living room. Standing in front of his bookshelves, she pulled a book off the nearest shelf and read the title out loud. A Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. I did read this but should read it again. Its an excellent book, he said, eyeing her bare legs. She put the book back. I love your built in shelves on both sides of the fireplace. Im amazed how many books you have. When I bought the house, I never thought Id have enough books to fill all the shelves but Im getting there. I love to read, too, but you probably realized that since Im an English teacher. Your mom told me how you started reading at age three. Be the way, I enjoyed meeting your mother. Thanks for including me in your familys celebration. He better think of a reason to get her to stay. Offering her food was out of the question. They had eaten a lot at dinner including dessert. Maybe they could watch a movie. Hed just bought

a few Blue-ray Discs at Target. How about we watch a movie? She glanced at her watch. I should get home. Tomorrows going to be a big day. I need to help Josh pack his bag yet. Hes leaving after the wedding to go with Tobys parents to the lake house. I dont want Josh to stay up too late, but we can talk for a little bit. Her leg brushed his as she sat beside him. Intense desire swept through his body at her touch. Did she feel the same thing? Apparently he didnt have the same effect on her. She looked as cool as his ice pack felt. Are you taking your vitamins? She grinned. Yes, doctor. By the way, my family doctor told me at my physical that Im in good shape. He also approves of me having surgery. Thats good. Did you get my physical form? When I had my physical, they mentioned faxing it to your office. He nodded. I got it on Friday. The big day will be here soon. Do you have surgeries scheduled on Monday

and Tuesday? Yes, but not too many on Monday. I just have a teachers work day, and then Im finished on Tuesday for the summer. Her green eyes widened as she stared at him. Seth, Im scared. Oh, great. Shes worried I wont be able to do her rhinoplasty. The pain was bad when it happened, but its already feeling better. I promise I wont have any trouble doing your surgery. He was glad she was on his left side, so he could grasp her hand. My hands are fine. Im not worried about you having any difficulty. She winked at him. I think youre faking it anyhow to get my attention. I can see why youd think that since I havent hidden my feelings for you. He didnt give her a chance to say how she felt about him but instead asked, What are you anxious about? She exhaled a deep breath. Im just nervous now. Ive never had any kind of surgery. Thats normal for you to feel this way. You shouldnt treat cosmetic surgery lightly, but youre

young and healthy. I wouldnt operate if there was any risk of something going wrong. And were close to a major hospital if something rare should happen. Im nervous about something else too. She paused for a moment. Im worried my swelling might last too long. I want to go to Vegas with Josh, but dont want my nose to look bigger than it does now. He wanted to give her hopeful information but at the same time, he needed to be blunt. Youll have bruising and swelling. It frequently involves the tissues around the eyes. You might look like you have a black-eyed appearance for around seven to ten days. The eyelids are easily bruised and swollen with very little trauma. Its hard to know how long your swelling will last, but youll see an improvement right away in your nose. Gradually the swelling will go away. I just cant give you a timeline because each patient is different. Ill be glad when its over. Do you have someone to drive you home after

the surgery? Heathers going to take off work. Thats good. Im sure she knows to stay with you. She smiled. I feel special. Im on the first name basis with the best plastic surgeon in the area. And I have my own registered nurse to take care of me. More than anything, he wanted to kiss her. Its time to take action. With his good arm, he pulled her next to him. I want to give you something to think about instead of the surgery. His lips moved over hers, tender and sensual. When she kissed him back, he realized she wasnt cool at all. Her lips were warm. His entire body became drugged with need. He wanted to make love to her. Mallory gasped. I cant think, Seth. Your kisses are driving me crazy. You have the same effect on me. I cant get enough of you. He nuzzled her neck, noticing her scoop-neck dress. He pulled her closer, feeling her swollen breasts against his chest. She moaned at

his contact. At the sound of her phone, she sat up straighter and gave him an apologetic glance. I better get that. It might be Mom about the wedding. While she left to answer her cell phone, he realized something. Hed never operated on someone he loved.

Chapter Seventeen Mommy, you sound funny, Josh said. My nose is a little stuffed up. Mallory glanced at Heather to see if was listening. Shed driven her home after the surgery. When Heather grinned at her, she realized her friend had heard. But it wasnt a lie. Her nose was congested because of swelling plus Seth had put a small bit of gauze held in place with tape under her nose to absorb drainage. Daddy called. Grandmas mad at him. She probably wishes your dad wasnt in Las Vegas, so he could spend time with you, Grandma and Grandpa at the lake. She loved Tobys parents. Fran, Tobys mom had taken her side when theyd gotten divorced. Shed told her son to go to counseling because his marriage was worth saving. Toby had laughed and said his mom should get Mallory and Josh in the divorce settlement. Neither woman thought hed been a bit funny. No, shes mad about Samantha. I heard her

tell Daddy that Samanthas a gold digger. When I go visit Daddy in Vegas, I want to dig for gold. Grandma didnt mean that Samantha was actually digging for gold. She meant something else. Did Daddy tell you that Samantha is in Vegas? Yes, shes with him. I told Daddy that he missed Nanas wedding. Josh had been disappointed when he learned his dad wasnt attending the wedding. They hadnt sent him an invitation after they learned he would be in Vegas anyhow. Josh, Im sorry you didnt get to see him before you left on your trip. Daddy asked about the wedding. I said how Nana looked pretty and happy. She made a beautiful bride. Mallory had never seen her mother happier. I asked Daddy if he was happy when he married you. Her throat thickened. Their wedding day had been perfect. Tobys eyes had been filled with love for her. What happened? Josh, we were very

much in love. Josh lowered his voice as he said, Daddy said that it was a happy day. And when I was born was another wonderful day. It was time to change the topic. In exactly a week, Seth would remove her splint from her nose and ironically it would be on the anniversary of her wedding day. They were married after their college graduation. Their honeymoon had been at Myrtle Beach. Strange how things happened. And todays going to be a good day for you. I heard youre going fishing with Grandpa. Your daddy used to fish with Grandpa. After chatting for a few more minutes, they said good-bye. She put the cordless phone next to the table lamp. Its going to be a long ten days. I already miss Josh. Heather nodded. Its a shame your mom left, too, but how romantic to find love at her age. You did a great job on the wedding. It was perfect. Elizabeth and I both thought it was elegant. I was pleased with how well it went. Fortunately, it was a small wedding.

Heather stood. I better get the ice ready for your cold compress. I forgot about it when Josh called. After Heather left the living room, she thought about Samantha being in Las Vegas with Toby. Not her favorite thing to have on her mind after plastic surgery, but maybe Samantha was the one woman Toby could be happy with. Thanks, she said when Heather returned from the kitchen. She rested her head against the chair while Heather handed her a cold compress. She hadnt talked to Heather yet about meeting Jeremys mother. Theyd left after Elizabeths picnic to visit with Jeremys mom, and Heather had been nervous about meeting her. You havent mentioned Jeremy. Did you have a nice time at his moms house? Heather shrugged. It couldve gone better. I had trouble talking to her. She asked about you. Then said how much she respected you. I bet it went better than you think. I only met her a couple of times, so Im not sure why she thinks so favorably of me. She was probably just

making small talk. She wasnt impressed by me, Heather said. Thats for sure. She said a ministers wife has to be comfortable in lots of different situations. Jeremy must like you a lot for her to talk about what is expected of a ministers wife. I hope he told her how you can handle any problem. What did Jeremy say? He was on the phone while we were chatting. Heather frowned. I think shed rather Jeremy dated you than me. No, she doesnt. You and Jeremy belong together. Shell see that. Its going to be fine. If you and Jeremy continue seeing each other, shell realize youll make a wonderful ministers wife. Yikes, Im talking too much. Seth had given her orders to talk little. It was hard though with Heather having a low self-esteem after meeting Jeremys mother. Im crazy about him. At the sound of her cell phone, Heather glanced at the screen before answering it. Its my sister. I better get it. She removed her compress and went to look at

herself in the bathroom mirror. Staring back at her was a frightening face. I look so bad. I cant believe its me. Josh would be so upset if he saw me now with a puffy face, a nose splint and bruises around my eyes. Heather came to the doorway. Are you okay? I knew Id look hideous with the splint, but I never imagined anything like this. No wonder the nurse took me out the back door instead of through the waiting room. From the recovery room, the back door is closer to the parking lot. They told me to go in the back door when Seth removes the splint, so Ill still be scary looking. Thatd be bad for business for prospective patients to see what theyll look like after surgery before healing. I have a problem. Karis having contractions. I think it could be false labor because she isnt due for three weeks, but I should go. Wouldnt you know this would happen when you just had surgery and Tonys out of town? I hate to leave you but if shes really in labor, I want to drive her to the

hospital. Ill call Elizabeth. She was going to stop in after work, but maybe she can leave work early. Go now. Itll take you twenty minutes to get to her house. Heathers face had a worried look. Are you sure? She gave her a slight shove. You better leave now. Ill be fine. Ill help you walk to your bedroom and get you settled before I go. Id rather sit in the chair again and watch TV. Can I get you anything before I leave? No, but thank you. She wanted Heather to get Kari to the hospital. What if it wasnt false labor? Heather, will you please go? Ill call Elizabeth, you take care of Kari. If shes in labor, it should be shorter this time with it being her second pregnancy. After Heather left, she grabbed the phone to call Elizabeth. Rather silly to do this, she thought. I obviously can take of myself. She sighed. I told

Heather Id call so I better. The phone rang before she hit speed dial for Elizabeth. She saw it was Fran so quickly answered. I waited until the guys left, so I could talk to you. I think you should know something that I just found out about Samantha. She met Toby before she ever worked at the fitness club. And shes quit her job now to work for him. Was Fran trying to tell her that Samantha was another reason her marriage had failed? Did he know Samantha during our marriage? Yes, he did. He insists that they didnt get serious until the divorce was final But that was only five months ago. He told me that their relationship wasnt serious yet. Its serious. I think she quit her job at the gym to go with him to Las Vegas. He said he needed her to help with Jeffs legal problems. But I think shes trying to trap him. Tobys a successful lawyer. Shes interested in his money. I dont know, Fran. The money might not have anything to do with her interest in Toby. Your sons a good-looking and charming guy.

Honey, Im sorry I told you all this. I wasnt going to but I heard what Josh told you about Samantha. I love Toby but he blew it when he divorced you. Im afraid Toby might marry Samantha. I wanted to let you so youll be prepared. Mallory, youll always be a daughter to me. The older womans words touched her deeply. Her eyes became moist. Oh, Fran, I feel so blessed to have you as a friend and I love you too. But I wanted the divorce too. I tried but I couldnt forgive him for his affair with Lacey. I understand. He didnt treat you well. I wish he wouldve been a better husband. She paused before continuing, I better go. I promised Josh Id bake cookies while they were catching dinner. Take care of yourself. You sound like you have a bad cold. After she told Fran good-bye, her heart felt heavy. Toby had lied to her about Samantha. Had he ended the affair with Lacey to have one with Samantha? Was she the reason Toby had asked for a divorce? How many times had Toby lied to her

during their marriage? And how many women had he slept with? What a fool shed been. Had he used her to get through law school and never really loved her? She felt like crying but wanted to keep her emotions under check. If she cried about her ex being a cheat and a liar, she might damage Seths work on her nose. She must stay upbeat. What did it matter about Toby anyhow? She no longer loved him and hadnt for a long time. He was a louse, but Seth wasnt. She needed something to do, but it couldnt be strenuous. She was supposed to be resting and she felt dizzy. Pictures. Thats what I can dotake shots of my nose. Shed thought of writing a story about her experience for a magazine to help recoup some of the money spent on her nose, and the editor might want photos included. After she picked up her digital camera from her shelf in the bedroom, she went back to the living room because of better lighting. She snapped a few close-ups of her face. After transferring to the computer, she stared at the photos. Geez, she definitely wouldnt send these to

her mom and Alan. Seeing how she looked after surgery might give them nightmares on their honeymoon. I dont want to do anything to put a damper on their romantic time together. Her mother deserved having a fantastic trip with her new husband. *** Mallory went to the door when she heard Seths car in the driveway at six oclock. Seth had called earlier to check on her, so shed told him about Heather leaving to take her sister to the hospital. Before she even mentioned Elizabeths conflict with her schedule, Seth told her that hed be there soon. In a way, she was glad that Elizabeth had phoned her about not being able to come because she felt a rush of excitement about Seths visit. It was reassuring to know if something weird should happen from the surgery, hed be here to take care of her. He was dressed in jeans with his broad shoulders filling out his gray polo. Watching Seth

shut his car door made her feel light-headed. Well, her dizziness might not be just from staring at her extremely good-looking surgeon but from the surgery itself. Or not eating much. I should have changed my clothes. She still wore her sweat pants and an oxford pale blue blouse that shed put on in the morning. Shed been told to wear loose pants and nothing that had to go over her head when arriving for surgery. Hows my favorite patient? Seth asked, carrying flowers and a small grocery bag. I cant believe he brought me a bouquet of flowers. She hadnt received flowers from a man for a long time. No, that wasnt true. Seth had given her a pot of hyacinths on the evening of their barbecue. Im doing okay. Do you like my new look? Id like it better if you were resting. Ive been a good girl. I even took a nap. And Ive been putting the cold compress on my face. That reminds me I brought you a couple bags of frozen peas. You can alternate using them in place of the ice. The peas maintain their cold

temperature and will help make the whole icing thing easier. Seth handed her the bouquet of mixed flowers. Ill put them in water in a minute. First, I want you to get off your feet. She stared at the brightly colored arrangement. Theyre beautiful. Thank you. He followed her into the living room, sitting by her on the couch. What about eating? She shrugged. Ive been drinking liquids and ate some Jell-O. Did you eat yet? I had a sub a couple of hours ago. Did you tolerate the Jell-O okay? Yes. If your stomachs settled, Ill make macaroni and cheese for you to eat. I brought the ingredients to make it. How sweet of him to take time to buy what was needed to make her dinner. My stomach feels fine and macaroni and cheese sounds yummy. The perfect comfort food for a lady after nose surgery. He stood, grinning at her. Its a good thing I helped you clean up after the barbecue so I know where you keep stuff. Before I get started, Ill fill a

compress with ice for you. You can use the vegetable bags during the night to make it easier. You need to keep changing the ice compresses every fifteen minutes, so youll minimize your bruising and swelling. After Seth put the flowers in a vase, he brought her the compress. Here, Ill put it on. Even with her puffy face, she loved the touch of his gentle fingers and murmured, Thank you. For everything. His closeness made her wish she didnt have a stupid splint and a sore face because she wouldnt mind a kiss from him. Or maybe she was hallucinating from the anesthesia. He wasnt about to kiss her now. Or would he? Youre welcome, he said. I hope youve been avoiding long conversations. Dont feel like you have to talk to me while I cook. I want you to rest and stay quiet. Yes, Doctor, except I did talk to Josh and my ex-mother-in-law but I kept it short. Thats good. She had a good view of Seth preparing dinner

and thought how at home he looked in her kitchen. Sometimes it was hard to imagine how much he meant to her in such a short time. After the macaroni was cooked and drained, he stirred the cheeses in the sauce. He turned and said, I hope you like pepper cheese. Im using both Pepper Jack and Colby Jack. I do. Once he had the casserole in the oven, Seth walked into the living room. Itll take thirty minutes. After we eat I need to make phone calls to patients. He smiled at her. Usually, I dont make house calls after surgery but call instead. Im sorry. Are you? His blue eyes filled with amusement. Your mom leaves on her honeymoon, Heathers sister goes into labor early, and Elizabeth has to stay at work. I think you wanted me here. Hey, dont make me laugh. You told me to avoid smiling, grinning and any excessive facial movements for one week. Im sure that includes laughing.

I didnt mean to make you laugh. Just thought Id tease you a little. Well, youre right. I planned it all, knowing youd make the long trip. I enjoy taking care of you but I think you know that. Seth gave her a thoughtful look. I also enjoyed kissing you the few times weve been together. Im hoping youll miss me when I go out of the country and want me in your life. She leaned forward, tossing her compress. Why was Seth leaving? And what if she had complications and he wasnt around to take care of her? How long are you going to be away? Just for a week. Im flying to Vietnam on the thirteenth so Ill be here to remove your splint. I do this a couple of times a year with the organization, Operation Smile. Have you ever heard of them? Ive heard a little about them. Im on a volunteer medical team and we repair deformities. Ive performed surgery usually on children with cleft lips and cleft palates. In Vietnam, families think children are cursed when they have deformities. After surgerys done, the

children are finally accepted in their villages and have friends to play with. Their lives are completely transformed. You never mentioned leaving. I meant to tell you but always forgot when I was talking to you. Its kind and generous of you to do surgery for these poor children. Mallory tried to keep her voice normal, but she wished Seth wasnt going away. But Ill miss you. I wont be gone long. He gave her a tender look. Ill miss you too.

Chapter Eighteen Im so glad the weeks up. Mallory squirmed on the seat while waiting for Seth to remove her nose splint. Before I take the cast and tape off, remember there will be swelling. It wont already look like the computer imaging I did for you. I know. I bet even with swelling, my nose will still be smaller. After he finished gently pulling the splint off, Seth squeezed her shoulder. It looks great. Dena leaned a bit closer to Mallory and handed her a mirror. Youre going to love Dr. Whitmans work. Even with her nose looking bruised and swollen, she realized her goal had been accomplished. Her nose looked awesome. My face looks so balanced now. When I look I dont just see my nose. This is definitely a better version of me. Thank you so much. Seth smiled at her. Im glad youre happy with

the result. And in a few weeks, itll be even better. Turning her head, she looked at her nose from all sides. Its going to be so wonderful to be able to walk into a classroom or any room and not wonder if people are looking at my nose. Dena tossed the cast into the trash can and said, Ill check to see if your next appointment is here. Seth nodded at Dena. Ill be along in a few minutes. I want to go over some directions with Mallory. I need to take the pictures of her nose too. She looked curiously at Seth. She bet he just wanted an excuse to spend more time with her. Do you actually have directions for me? Sure, I do. He crossed his arms. For another week, I dont want you to take part in any physical activity, especially bending or lifting. And dont bump your nose for a few months. Any trauma to your nose could have an adverse effect on the healing process. Stay out of the sun, which I know will be hard during this time of the year. Any exposure to the sun can cause scarring because the

new layer of skin is sensitive. Wear a hat or cab with a visor when you do go out and also wear sunscreen on your nose. Ill be careful. I wont mention that hes already told me all this stuff. In such a short time, Seths become an important part of my life. Ill miss him when he goes to Vietnam. Ive been thinking of opening a satellite office in Findlay. Ill still do all my surgery here, but Ive hired a professional to see if theres enough interest for patients wanting to see a plastic surgeon in Findlay. Id have the consultation and follow-up visits in the branch office, so that the Findlay residents wont have to drive all the time to Toledo. What do you think? Hed surprised her with his idea of opening an office in her hometown. Shed never thought of that happening. That sounds like a good plan. If you do I might just apply for a part-time job. What are your qualifications? She rolled her eyes. I cant believe you have to ask. You know that Id be the perfect person since I can tell people about the excellent care and

surgery I received from you. I mean, you even spent the night after my operation. Hed slept in Joshs room but still itd been great having him stay overnight. Other patients dont receive the same type of care that I gave you. He reached for her hand. Mallory, you know how I feel about you. When I return from Vietnam, we need to have a serious talk. She needed to keep the mood light because she was feeling way too much for Seth. How far could a relationship with Seth go? Could she marry him? She was pretty sure thats what he wanted to talk about when he returned. She laughed. Im happy to know that youre interested in me and werent just after my money. I have something for you, he said, pulling her to her feet. His warm lips gently touched hers in a long and sweet kiss. Oh no, why did she have to enjoy kissing Seth? This man complicated her life. She hated to admit it but she liked his manly smell. Heck, she liked everything about him.

He pulled away slightly to stare at her. I didnt hurt you, did I? I know your faces sore but I just couldnt resist kissing you. I shouldnt give you any encouragement but I liked it. She sighed. Hurry back. Its going to be lonely without you around. Maybe well have something to celebrate when I come back from my trip. *** Thanks for driving me to my appointment. Mallory glanced at Elizabeth behind the steering wheel. How did Elizabeth always manage to look so perfect? Her friend never had a bad hair day. Hey, you did me a favor. I got to see your new nose first. Elizabeth slowly pulled out of the parking lot. What do you think? I hate to admit it but I guess you did the right thing. It looks great even though youre all bruised and swollen. While at a red traffic light, Elizabeth looked at her. How long are you going to wait

before you take Josh to see Toby in Vegas? She shrugged. Im not sure but probably will go in a couple of weeks. What does your hot surgeon say about traveling? I havent asked him about flying but it should be fine. She smiled at Elizabeth. I just have to make sure I dont bump my nose while lifting our luggage. Just dont carry anything on the plane to be on the safe side. Elizabeth exhaled a deep breath. I need to talk to you about Derek. Whats wrong? He wants to leave sales and return to college. But hes so good at his job. What career does he have in mind? Elizabeth left the ramp and got on interstate 75. He wants to enroll at Ohio Northern University for engineering. That was his original major before he switched to the business college so that should help. It sounds like hes thought this out pretty

well. The only problem is I wanted to get pregnant soon after our wedding, but well probably have to wait until he gets his engineering degree. Im sorry. Whenever you start your family, youll be a great mother. *** Eleven days after her surgery, she should be ridiculously happy. Right? Her protective splint was off, and even with some swelling, her nose was definitely smaller. Her nose didnt ache any longer so that was another reason to be thankful. Her loved ones were back home. Josh couldnt stop talking about fishing and playing with his grandparents. She loved seeing her mom delighted with her new husband. But she wasnt happy. A void was in her life without Seth. She couldnt wait until he returned from his trip. How could she so quickly fall in love with Seth? Was she deep down trying to show Toby she was desirable to another man? She had

felt jealously that Toby found other women more attractive than she. Her mom and Alan picked up Josh for her at the lake house since they were in the Toledo area. Theyd landed at the Toledo Express Airport after their honeymoon. Her moms comment had pleased her. You were gorgeous before but even more so now. Im glad you had your surgery. She mentioned her surgery briefly to Josh. All he said was, Is my nose okay? Theres nothing wrong with your nose. Its perfect. With Josh playing at Billys house, she felt restless and paced in the living room. She stopped by a photo of the three of them. Picking up the framed picture, she remembered the day Elizabeth had snapped it. Itd been one of those days you never want to end. She ran her finger over Tobys face smiling at the camera. She looked closer, only seeing a genuine grin. The phone rang and she put the picture back on the shelf. Glancing at the caller ID, she saw it was Toby. Hed just talked to Josh last night.

As soon as he heard her voice, he asked, Is Josh at Billys? He mentioned going there today. Yes, hes at Billys. Why? She moved to the chair to get comfortable, hoping itd be a long conversation about the upcoming trip. The flight reservations for her and Josh to visit Toby in Las Vegas hadnt been made. We need to talk. Im sure my mom told you that Samanthas here in Vegas with me. Was that why you told her, so Id have time to absorb it? You know me too well and Was Samantha the reason you divorced me? Even though she knew the answer, she wanted to hear it from him. I couldnt help it, Mallory. I tried to fight it in the beginning. She has the same passion for law that I do. Samanthas a female version of me. Once she passes the bar exam, were going to start a practice together. How chummy. He wants to work with his girlfriend all the time. So let me get this straight. You became involved with her first because of her

intellectual interest in law. When did it become a physical attraction? I dont remember exactly. I suppose there was a physical attraction soon after I met her. Theres more, Mallory. No, she didnt want to hear more about Samantha. Ive heard enough. She hadnt planned on telling Toby about her nose, but decided to tell him. While Josh was with your parents, I had nose surgery. Seth did a great job making my nose smaller. Why in the world would you have plastic surgery? How did you pay for it? Good, I got him off the topic of the beautiful Samantha. I paid for half myself and Mom gave me the other half. Ive always hated my nose. In an angry voice, she said, And I hated you having an affair but I couldnt change that. Having my nose surgery was something I could do and control. Im happy I had my nose done. Im glad youre satisfied with it. Toby cleared his throat. I loved you at one time, but my feelings changed for you. I dont know it just

seemed like you always wanted to change me. You were never happy that I didnt have the kind of faith you have. Samanthas different. Were happy and good together. Id already hurt you enough when I had the affair with Lacey, so I didnt want to tell you that I was sleeping with Samantha. Once I met her, I realized I slept with Lacey to get back at you for constantly harassing me to go to church. Mallory, Samantha and I were married five days ago. And this is how you tell me? Strong emotions bubbled up inside her. How could he blame their failed marriage partly on her faith? You arent being fair. I loved you with my whole heart. I just wanted us to go to church as a family. You also wanted me to go to Bible study and prayer group with you. But it wasnt just your faith. We got married right after college and it was wonderful in the beginning. But it seemed like after I became a lawyer, you were more demanding about my time. I had to be because you spent little time at home. I knew you wanted to get ahead in your

career, but I missed not seeing my husband. You wanted the divorce too. Dont deny it. I know it was wrong of me not to be forgiving about Lacey, but it sounds like it wouldnt have made a bit of difference. I did the right thing agreeing to the divorce. You committed adultery with Samantha too. Youre right. It wouldnt have made any difference. I love Samantha. She just had a terrible thought. Is she pregnant? Of course not. We arent planning on having any children for several years. He sighed. Mallory, I shouldve been honest and told you my feelings sooner. I just didnt want to hurt you. I broke off with Lacey because of Samantha. Her voice became hard. It seems like you owe me. I worked two jobs while you were going to law school, and now I bet youre paying for Samanthas education. Shes saving me money. Shes my paralegal while attending law school. Her hand hurt from gripping the armrest so

hard, but it was better than throwing something. Her friends and others had been right; Toby had never appreciated her sacrifices she made, so he could graduate from law school. Thats good to know how shes saving you money, she said, sarcastically. I busted my butt watching every penny while we were married. Hey, I wasnt always a bad husband. I bought you little gifts while you worked. Remember how I gave you boxes of chocolate covered cherries? I hate chocolate covered cherries. She never could figure why he thought she liked them. The first time hed given her a box, he looked so proud that she hadnt the heart to tell him. Shed given the candy to her mom. They were your favorite candy. No, Ive never liked that kind. Its my mom who loves them. I didnt want to hurt your feelings the first time you gave me a box, and later I kept telling you about other candy I liked. But you never listened. Suddenly it hit her. She had married Toby on June tenth. Her stomach turned at the thought he might have married Samantha on what

had been their day. What day did you and Samantha get married on? Please tell me it wasnt the tenth. It was on the ninth. Im sorry it was even close to our wedding date. I knew itd freak you out if it was the same day. Well, okay, I also didnt want it to be the same as ours. Mallory, I did love you when I married you. I suppose Jeff and Peg attended the wedding. Jeff had been in theirs, and it bothered her to think that they knew about Tobys second marriage before she did. Peg had given her a bridal shower along with Elizabeth and Heather. They were our witnesses. Could you break the news to Josh? I think you should tell him yourself. One reason we decided to get married now was because Samanthas planned on moving in with me. Her roommate moved out so she cant afford her apartment any longer. We figured itd be awkward when Josh came on the weekends if we didnt get married, so see this is the best for everyone.

She bet Josh wouldnt feel that way. He wanted his daddy to live with them again. She wondered how Tobys parents had taken the news. Oh my gosh, they probably dont know. Fran wouldve have called her if she knew anything about Tobys wedding. Do your parents know yet? No. I wanted to tell you first. Ill call them next. I guess thats it. Bye, Mallory. At the sound of his click, she thought, Yeah, I guess thats it. Toby cheated on me twice. She gave a bitter laugh. Probably more. But what was going to happen to her? Was she destined to be a lonely old woman? Sure, she still had Josh but someday hed grow up and leave her. Then shed be all alone. Unless she got married again, but how could she? Wasnt she still married to Toby, according to God? She wished that Seth wasnt in Vietnam. Strange, how she wanted to talk to him instead of Elizabeth and Heather. She realized why. He had become an important part of her life. She decided to call her friends. While talking to them, they

decided to get together at Heathers. Mallory called her mom to babysit because Josh would be home soon from Billys. After having a quiet dinner with Josh, her mom arrived, giving her a big hug. Ten minutes later, Heather opened the door to greet her as she walked up the steps. She was grateful to her friends for making time to see her. Once the women were seated inside Heathers condo, Elizabeth passed out her famous brownies. Dont complain, Mallory. High calorie food is required for this gabfest. You make the best brownies, Heather said, then took a bite of her brownie. Have you talked to Seth about Tobys marriage? Elizabeth asked. She sipped her coffee, noticing her friends seemed excited. No, I havent talked to Seth. Hes in Vietnam. He called me after arriving there, but with the time difference and not knowing his schedule, I dont want to bother him. She exhaled a deep breath. Toby blamed me for his affair with Lacey. I guess I drove him to her because he said

that I kept trying to shove my faith down him. Tobys an idiot, Elizabeth said. You cant believe him. He just wants to place blame on you. Hes a rat. He cheated on you twice while you were married. Dont you wish now you had asked for alimony? She nodded. Part of me does, but its too late now. Heather shrugged her shoulders. I regret agreeing with you about not getting any alimony. I shouldve have encouraged you to get it. She gave a weak smile at her friends. I did tell him I hated chocolate covered cherries. Elizabeth kicked off her shoes. I cant believe how he kept buying that candy for you. You threw out so many hints that you wanted other candy. Heather said, I know youre disappointed that Toby wasnt the man you thought you married, but the Lord answered your prayers by having you meet Seth. As soon as he returns, I hope you two spend lots of time together. She frowned. I need to get rid of my guilt too. Some women stick by their cheating husbands, but

I couldnt forgive Toby. Im all mixed up right now. I was focused on getting my nose done and Heather grinned. Plus you met your future husband. I told you this might happen. Seth loves you. Its so obvious. She broke off a piece of brownie. Toby loved me but look how that turned out. You arent alone, Mallory, Elizabeth said. Unfortunately, divorces happen all the time. Heather patted her arm. I talked to Jeremy before you got here. He said you shouldnt feel guilty if you see Seth or others. I love Seth but I worry about the future whenever I realize I want to be his wife. I dont know if I can move on.

Chapter Nineteen The next day Toby talked to Josh about his marriage to Samantha. Without listening to the conversation, Mallory knew the exact moment Josh heard the news because his face crumbled. She hated seeing her little boy unhappy, but understood how he felt. Hed prayed for his parents to get back together. She needed to make sure that he never blamed himself for their divorce and never felt his prayers had gone unanswered. When the call ended, Josh asked, I want to still live with you, Mommy. Will I have to live with Daddy and Samantha? She pulled him on her lap, noticing his clothes seemed small on him. Im pretty sure that were keeping everything the same. Youll go to Daddys on Friday evening, and Ill pick you up on Sunday morning. Maybe some weekends I could stay here the whole time. Id love that but your daddy would miss you a

lot. Just think while hes in Vegas, you get to stay here on weekends. She gave him a hug. I missed you when you were at the lake house. His eyes widened. You should get married too. Grandma and Grandpa Harrington are married. Daddys married and Nana just got married. Joshs suggestion surprised her, but she was relieved he thought that she should get married too. Maybe someday I will, but only if hes right for both of us. She smiled at Josh. Do you have some guy in mind for me? I like Eddie. And he could just move into our house. Whoa. Eddies a friend. Hes not future husband material for me, but Im glad you like Eddie. She touched his T-shirt. How about we go through your clothes and take the ones youve outgrown to Goodwill? After we do that, could we eat pizza? ***

Mallory and Josh had just gotten home after picking up a pizza from Jac and Dos when her house phone rang. After she answered, Seth asked, How are you feeling? Im doing okay from the surgery, but she stopped to glance at Josh. But you miss me, I hope. Yes, I miss you. When Im not doing surgeries, Im thinking of you. She flipped open the pizza box, took out a piece and put it on a plate. Josh, go ahead and start eating. I need to talk to my doctor for a minute. She carried the cordless phone to the living room and said to Seth, I think its time you meet Josh. I shouldve left the country sooner. You miss me and Im going to see Josh. Mallory sat on the couch, feeling a twinge of nervousness at what she was about to say to Seth. Im glad you called today. I needed you yesterday when I received shocking news from Toby. While I was upset, it was you I wanted to talk to.

What happened to Toby that made you upset? He married Samantha a few days ago in Las Vegas. I know it has to be rough on you. He shouldve told you before he got married. He lied to me about how he wasnt serious about Samantha but that doesnt matter now. I guess what gets me is I learned today that he also cheated on me with Samantha while were still married. Heather and Elizabeth think I need to move on with my life. You have wise friends. Im going to try and take their advice. She hesitated. How much should she mention while he was in Vietnam? He had pressing things to do, but hey, hed taken the time to call her. Before you get home, I want to talk to my minister. I have to be sure that its okay for me to date you. In my mind, I know that Tobys moved on by marrying Samantha, so in a way I feel freer to go on with my life. And it helps to see how Josh is taking his dads marriage better than I expected. But its still hard. She sighed. I know Im crazy. I have every right

to date you. I wasnt the cheater. Toby was and we both wanted the divorce, but I feel we took vows and they should matter. Maybe God wants me to remain single and just be a good mother to Josh. I think you should talk to your minister. Heck, you can talk to mine too. She laughed. I bet youll give a hefty donation to your church, so hell say that I should get married again. Married again. I like the sound of that. As long as its to me. She was embarrassed about using the word married instead of date. That slipped out. Maybe someday it wont be a slip and itll be intentional. She better do some heavy praying after getting off the phone. Dating was one thing but getting married, even to Seth, was downright scary. *** Instead of talking to her own minister about her divorce and Tobys remarriage, Mallory decided

to make an appointment to see Jeremy. After all, he knew the whole situation. Before her appointment, she dropped Josh off at her moms house. Ten minutes later she was sitting in Jeremys office. Would you like something to drink? Jeremy asked her. No, thank you. She smiled at him after glancing around the room. I guess youre the pastor of a thriving church. Your office is beautiful and huge. He grinned. I cant take any credit for my office. I havent been here that long. The minister before me had his wife do the whole office over. I guess she was starting out as an interior designer and hoped that the members of the congregation would hire her to decorate their houses. She took a deep breath, filling her nostrils with the heady fragrance from the purple iris flowers on his desk. Funny, Heather had given her the same ones recently. I like your flowers. Heather brought them when she dropped off crafts for Bible school. By the way, thank you for suggesting that she could help with the kids art

projects. She smiled. She must have emptied her mothers flowerbed. She gave me flowers too. Im glad you came today. I think its important for us to discuss your divorce and to pray for your future. God doesnt want you to dwell on the past and to continue to feel guilty about your failed marriage. Im hoping itll be easier for you now that Tobys remarried. Yeah, I dont feel I have to wait. I do want to get married again if its His will. But at the same time, Im afraid. I dont want another failed marriage. She leaned forward slightly in her chair. Im sure Heather has told you that Ive fallen in love with Seth. I cant stand the pain of a second divorce. I mean, I cant imagine it happening with Seth if we should get married. Hes a good Christian man, but that isnt any guarantee well be happy forever and stay together. When I counsel engaged couples, I tell them if they havent already started praying together, to start even before their marriage.

Thats a great suggestion. Shed prayed for Seth to have a safe trip back from Vietnam, and she knew he also prayed for her. But they had never prayed together. Im not saying that you and Toby didnt pray enough or that prayer is a cure for all that ails a troubled marriage, but praying together brings out a real sense of selflessness. It can be a simple prayer at dinnertime or some deeper meditation. A shared spiritual life will help to keep you and Seth close. Those who pray together are also more likely to tell me that they respect each other and discuss their relationship together. I agree. Faith and prayer is the foundation of a good marriage. She exhaled a deep breath. Okay, here is a question for you. Heather, Elizabeth, and my mom seem to think that God directed me to Seth because hes the one for me. What do you think? Do you think God meant for us to meet and to fall in love? Jeremy gave her a thoughtful glance. I cant definitely say yes to that question, but I feel comfortable in saying that God probably does want

you to pursue a loving relationship with Seth. It was pretty amazing how you went to Seth to do your operation and you both received so much more than either of you expected. Ive seen the way you two look at each other. Its pretty special. I have a feeling that God is giving His blessing to this relationship with Seth. They chatted and prayed for several minutes before Mallory stood to leave. She clasped Jeremys hand. Thank you so much. Youve been a big help. I dont think Ill have to make the minister circuit after all. Jeremy gave her a puzzled look. What do you mean? Im teasing. I meant I dont have to visit other ministers for their advice about what to do when you fall in love after being divorced. After leaving Jeremys office, Mallory made a huge decision. When Toby became a lawyer, hed replaced her small diamond in her engagement ring with a much bigger one. Shed never asked him to do it, but hed surprised her with it while she was pregnant with Josh.

She drove to her moms house to pick up Josh after selling her rings. Her mother met her at the front door, and said, We can chat and watch Alan play ball with Josh. She followed her mother to the back of the house to the screened-in porch. There were several white wicker chairs with striped blue and green cushions. A pitcher and glasses were on a small table. Would you like lemonade? She nodded and smiled at her moms happy face. Marriage definitely agrees with you. Her mom handed her a tall glass of lemonade. I cant imagine my life without Alan. And he loves you and Josh. Mallory watched Josh chasing Alan around the yard, and laughed. It looks like both are getting their exercise for the day. Did you get your business done? I did. I sold my engagement and wedding rings. She opened her purse. I want you to have the money. I hated it that you had to give me money for my surgery.

Her mom shook her head. No, you keep the money. You have a growing boy to feed and clothe. Mom, you know that Toby pays child support. I want to repay you. When you mentioned having surgery before you left for college, I thought about getting a loan and paying for it then. But part of me was stubborn because I didnt think it was necessary. Her mother grinned. I like your new nose. I realize it was the right thing for you to do. Okay, you win. Thank you. But if you ever change your mind, itll be no problem for me to pay you back. Although Mom doesnt want the money, I dont regret selling my jewelry. With her set gone, she felt free to move on with her life. The rings had been a symbol of Tobys past love. God understands because after all, Hed brought her and Seth together. Two Christians with the desire to serve the Lord was what shed always wanted in a marriage. But Tobys free will had rebelled against living a Christian life. Shed continue to

pray for her ex-husbands salvation. Her mother broke their silence with a question. Isnt Alan wonderful with Josh? You can tell Alans comfortable with children. I noticed that with his grandchildren before you two were married. I bet Seth will be that type of guy around Josh. Seth seems very family oriented. When you told me how Seth fixed you macaroni and cheese after your surgery, I knew he was a keeper. She took a sip of her cold beverage. Seths a terrific guy, no doubt about that. I was touched that he took time out of his schedule to call me after your surgery. It helped to hear from him how everything had gone since I wasnt there with you. Seth had asked her mother for the phone number at the restaurant for the purpose of calling her after the procedure was finished. Hes always been sweet. Her mom patted Mallorys arm. Of course, I know how much you hated being divorced, but I think what was a tragedy might be your greatest

blessing. Im guessing the tragedy is my divorce. No. I was thinking Toby dating and marrying Samantha seemed to happen too soon after the divorce, but instead its a blessing. Youre free to marry Seth. You dont have to put all your energy into worrying what will happen to Josh when you want to get married again. Josh sees his dad is happily married and wants you to be happy too. You can focus on Seth. I saw the way you two looked at each other during my rehearsal dinner. When I was small, I thought Id marry and live happily ever after. You still can. Gods practically throwing Seth into your lap. She smiled at her mother. I think you should work with Jeremy in counseling divorced women. He gave me a similar talk. *** A few days later, Mallory couldnt wait to see Seth again. Theyd been inseparable since his

return from Vietnam. She no longer felt guilty about falling in love with him, and in her heart shed finally forgiven Toby for cheating on her during their marriage. Life was great and she gave thanks to God for Seth. She even hoped that Toby and Samantha would have a happy and long marriage together. Only one thing bothered her a little. Did plastic surgeons sometimes fall in love with patients after giving them a new look? Was Seths fascination with her because hed created a new Mallory? It seemed so right to her whenever she looked in a mirror at her new nose. She loved what she saw, especially since the swelling had lessened, so Seth must feel the same pleasure at his work. Logic told her that hed been interested in her from the beginning, but her focus had been on the guilt she felt for a failed marriage. Well, okay she had feelings for Seth at the same time. These thoughts were in her mind when Seth arrived to take her to dinner. When she opened the door, her heart raced at the sight of Seths handsome chiseled face. He

wore khaki pants and a blue striped shirt. While holding a soccer ball, he asked, Wheres Josh? Seth had already met Josh and itd gone well. Heather picked him up. She decided to take him to a movie instead of hanging around here to babysit. I remember he said his ball got lost at practice, so I bought him one. Mallory grinned as she took the ball from him, putting it on the couch. You realize that you wont have an excuse not to play soccer with him now. Hell be asking you to play with him all the time. Thats what Im hoping. Joshs a great kid. He pulled her into his arms. You look gorgeous. She wore a black skirt with a beige top. The pleated bib-top with its frills made her feel flirtatious. That compliment deserves a kiss. When her lips met his, it felt natural. She couldnt imagine not being in Seths arms. When the kiss ended, Seths blue eyes were filled with tenderness. I missed you. You just saw me yesterday. I cant keep my hands off you.

I dont want you to. She pressed herself closer to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. His hands grabbed her buttocks, giving them a squeeze. My mom wants to know when Im going to propose to you. She laughed. We just met each other in April. Mom reminded me that Im not getting any younger. And she thinks you are a mature woman of thirty-two, so we dont need to wait. Hey, are you saying that Im old? Shed been happy that Seths parents and sister, Amy, had approved of her from the beginning. Her divorce and having a son had never been an issue with them. She met them right after Seth had returned from Vietnam. Theyd shared a lot of amusing stories of Seth growing up. He grinned. Old enough to know Im the guy you want as your husband. She stared at him. It was time for the big question. When you see me, do you see the old Mallory? Or do you see the woman you made

beautiful? I see the beautiful woman I fell in love with on her first visit to my office. Although having the perfect nose was wonderful, more important was having Seth in her life. He was the perfect guy for her. As they kissed, she thought how remarkable it was that they had become a couple because of her nose. Mallory silently prayed, Thank You for giving me a big nose so that I met Seth. Your timing in bringing him into my life was awesome. As the kiss ended, she saw a vision of herself floating down the church aisle to Seth. So whats your favorite month? He winked at her. Oh, I get it. Youre wondering when we might get married. I better propose soon. How can I have a favorite month when every month will be the bestas long as Im married to you.

Epilogue A few months later Thank you for coming to our wedding. I know you had to drive far. Mallory smiled at Seths aunt and uncle before giving them each a hug. She was glad they decided to have the traditional receiving line. Theyd talked about skipping the line and visiting each table of guests after the dinner. Seths mother suggested having the reception line so they wouldnt have to spend time table-hopping. Fortunately, the group wedding pictures inside the church didnt take as long as they did at Elizabeths wedding. Before the ceremony took place, Mallory enjoyed taking photos with the mothers, her bridesmaids, the flower girl, and her amazing son Josh. He loved being the ring bearer and being included in the bridal party. Seths mother had been right insisting they have a traditional formal wedding. After all, it was Seths first marriage.

I couldnt miss my favorite nephews wedding. The elderly woman beamed at them. When we received the invitation, we were worried that the weather might turn nasty in November, but its a perfect and lovely day to have a wedding. Mallory nodded. Shed been so happy when Seth officially proposed to her in July, but was even more elated that he wanted to get married as soon as possible. They decided to wait until November to have enough time to plan for their special day. Their wedding day only had a bit of a chill in the air with a bright blue sky and gorgeous sunlight. A few trees still had colorful foliage so the photographer used this spot to take a few shots of Seth and her. Choosing early November proved to be a great time to marry her surgeon. Gazing at her handsome husband in his black suit, Mallory realized how blessed she was. Faith in God had brought her to this wonderful moment. Seth kissed his aunts cheek, and said, Now Aunt Esther, you can stop praying for me to find the right woman. Your prayers and mine were

answered. His Uncle Tom chuckled. She wants to see Amy married next. Amy, dressed in a black dress, stood next to Elizabeth in the receiving line. I heard that Uncle Fred. We better move on, Esther. Other people want to offer their best wishes to the couple. Uncle Fred gave his wife a slight push. After they finished greeting the remainder of their guests, Seth leaned down and gave Mallory a long kiss. A flicker of passion quickened deep within her heart as she returned Seths kiss. Lets just escape for a few minutes. How about it? Before Mallory could answer Seth, Henry appeared with Josh and the other groomsmen. The disc jockey is ready for us to enter the reception room so we better line up. Heather, her maid of honor, gave her a hug before getting in line next to Henry, the best man. Her three bridesmaids wore black dresses and

carried red roses while the groomsmen wore black suits with red ties. I cant wait to throw my bouquet of red roses. I hope Heather catches it. I have a feeling the next wedding will be Heathers. Jeremy and she make such a great couple. She grinned at Seth. Im glad you want to escape with me and not from me. As much as Im enjoying all this, Im really looking forward to our honeymoon. Me too. Ive always wanted to go to Hawaii. I cant wait to spend alone time with you. Two weeks in Hawaii worried her a bit because of Josh, but he seemed thrilled to stay with her mother and Alan. Hed be going to school during the day so that would help. She hated to leave her students during the school year, but there were three days off for conferences so the school only had to get a sub for her classes for seven days. In December, they planned on moving into their new brick house. Selling the house shed shared with Toby had been a good decision. Seth said they might need a bigger house anyhow with the future children they hoped

to have. Josh pulled on her hand. Dont forget to watch me dance when they announce my name. Ill be sure to watch. Youll be awesome. Josh had been more excited about his name being announced when he walked in at the reception hall than walking down the aisle with the pillow in his hands. He thought it was pretty cool that the DJ would say his name into the microphone in front of all the guests. She looked down at her flower girl, Ally. You look very pretty. The photographer will take your picture when you two walk in. Remember, Ally, to smile, Elizabeth said. Her mom looked lovely in a maroon dress. Mom, are you and Alan still going to dance your way in? You dont have to. You could just wave to the audience. Her mom hadnt been on board at first about dancing to music during the introductions. But when Seths parents said itd be fun for all of the bridal party to dance, then her mom and Alan agreed to dance too. Her mom nodded. Im looking forward to it. Alan and Ive been practicing our moves.

Your moms a great dancer. Alan smiled fondly at his wife. The disc jockey, a young man in his early twenties, appeared in front of them. He said to the bridal party, Okay, we start with the parents, then the ring bearer and flower girl. Ill announce your names as soon as you enter the hall. Ill wait around thirty seconds in between couples so that the guests and photographers can take your pictures as you enter the main reception area. That should give enough time for each couple to dance. Heather and Henry, you walk in before the bride and groom. He gave a quick glance at Mallory and Seth. Lets get this show on the road. After Seth and I do our wedding dance for a couple of minutes, invite everyone to join us on the dance floor. The DJ nodded. I will. Have fun and relax. Within minutes everyone became quiet in the hall. The dance music started as her mom and Alan entered the huge room. While waiting for their turn, Seth said, If anyone ever asks me what the happiest day of my

life was, Id have to say its today. Ive never been so happy. Ill love and cherish you the rest of my life. I love you so much too. Henry snapped his fingers. Hey, you two, Heather and I are leaving for our grand entrance. Nervous energy flowed thru her body as she realized everyones eyes would be on them soon. But that was okay because she had her husband to share the spotlight with. Please stand for Mr. and Mrs. Seth Whitman, the disc jockey announced. Are you ready, Mrs. Whitman, to do our dance? Seth asked. For you, my love, Im always ready.

The End

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Diane Craver met her husband while teaching at an orphanage. While raising their six children in southwestern Ohio, Diane started writing nonfiction. Several nonfiction articles of Diane's have been published in Womans World Weekly, The Catholic Telegraph, Virtue, Down Syndrome Today, WritersWeekly.com, and several other publications. Later, she decided it would be a nice escape to write fiction. Diane has published through a variety of houses, including Samhain, Whimsical Publications, Publishing by Rebecca J. Vickery, Booklocker.com and Victory Tales Press. She writes fun and inspiring stories filled with memorable characters. Diane gives thanks to God daily for all her wonderful blessings. Learn more about Diane and her books at: http://www.dianecraver.com/,

http://www.dianecraver.com/blog http://www.jewelsofthequill.com/