The Doctor (Nashville Neighborhood, #1)

by Nikki Sloane

“I didn’t wake you up because I was scared,” I announced. “I didn’t know how to say goodbye to you after we . . . and I didn’t want to.” His posture straightened, and finally an emotion I could read splashed on his expression. Surprise. “I’m sorry,” I said again. “When I woke up and you were gone, I didn’t know what to think. I worried maybe you were freaking out.” Guilt coasted through me. I hadn’t meant to hurt him. “No.” I took a step closer, wanting him near. “That came later.” I rounded the island, so it was no longer between us, and stared up at him. “I don’t regret what happened. I mean, I know I should, but I just don’t.” I pressed my lips together and drew in a breath through my nose, struggling to find the courage to ask. “Do you?” A crease developed on his forehead. He looked conflicted, and my heart sank to my toes. His hesitation was torture. “No, I don’t regret it,” he said finally, “but that makes me the worst father in the world, right? A terrible person, at least.” “No—” “Yes, it does. Especially when I want to do it again.” Anxiety released its hold on my shoulders, and I sagged against the counter. His eyes heated. The air between us shifted and stretched, growing from tension into something else, which tasted a lot like anticipation. I’d never been more aware of him, or the idea that we were alone in his house. “But we can’t do it again,” I said, my words tight and unsteady. Jesus, I couldn’t believe I’d just said it. I hadn’t meant it one bit—I’d issue...