by Erica Penrod
“Good morning, Lily.” He smiled as he stopped at her desk before he went on. They’d cleaned out a small office supply room at the end of the hall for him. The space was tight but private. “Any fires I need to put out this morning?” He thumbed through the stack of papers she collected and left for him.
“Nothing to speak of, other than Dr. Rockwood arrived about fifteen minutes ago.” Lily pressed her hand over her chest and dramatically blew the air from her lungs as she shook her head. “Now that man could start a fire wherever he goes.” She fanned her face with a piece of paper. “We might be up against an outbreak of hypochondriasis if the single female population of Eureka Springs get a look at the new doc.”
Levi laughed out loud. He couldn’t help himself, although professionally, he should’ve reprimanded his employee. “Maybe I’d better warn Dr. Rockwood.”
“There’s no need for that.” Lily sat up in her chair. “The man’s a doctor, which means he’s smart enough to know that when he looks in the mirror every day and sees a face like that staring back at him, trouble’s coming.”
Lily was one of a kind. “Where is our new doc, anyway?”
“He and Dr. Evans went to the ER. Well, the part you can still get into.” The ER was first on the list for renovation, and the ambulance entrance had been relocated to the side of the building during the first phase of the project.
“I’ll check for him there.” Levi picked up the papers and tucked them into his laptop bag. “Thanks, Lily.”
“You’re welcome.” Lily tipped her head and looked him up and down with a narrow gaze. “You seem different.” Her eyes lit up as if the clouds parted and a revelation was bestowed upon her. “Things must be going well with you and Miss Monica.”
His face heated. “What do you know about me and Monica?” He thought about the last week and if he’d said anything about the owner of The Red Pearl to Lily.
The receptionist leaned back in her chair, crossed her arms over her ample bosom, and laughed. “If Doris knows anything about anyone, in particular her next-door neighbor, you can bet half the town has heard about you and Monica long before you finished your first kiss.”
Boundaries … the woman didn’t know the meaning. “Doris is Monica’s neighbor, Alex’s great-aunt?”
“Yes.” She raised a brow. “And you know before Monica’s great-aunt Gwen died, she and Doris were hoping for a spark between Alex and Monica.”
A pang akin to jealousy gouged him in the gut. He’d seen Alex and Monica. They were friends and nothing more. “Thank you for informing me.” Levi turned, but Lily shot him one last question.
“Are things going well between you and Monica?” Excitement danced in her eyes.
The last thing he wanted to do was fuel gossip, but it was hard to deny a nice lady surrounded by teddy bears. “I guess you could say that.” Levi walked away, grinning to himself. You could say things were good between him and Monica, and a whole lot more than that.
* * *
The timer beeped, and Monica opened the oven door to be greeted with the savory aroma of roasted chicken seasoned with garlic and rosemary. “Hallelujah.” Miracles did happen. Levi had texted her while she was at the market and asked if he could bring a friend home for dinner. Monica was thrilled to have more mouths to feed—cooking was her thing—but she wanted something fancier than the loaded chef salad listed on her menu. She prayed the timing of it all would work out, and so far, it had.
“Monica?” Levi called from the hallway, and her heart gave a roar in excitement.
She took the oven mitts from the counter. “In the kitchen.”
Footsteps and voices echoed down the hall. “Hey.” Levi strolled in, his work bag still in tow. “Whatever you’re cooking smells delicious.”
“It sure does,” the man behind him added.
Monica blinked twice at one of the most handsome men she’d ever seen. Was Levi the president of the “Hot Guy” club? The two friends she’d met of his, Alex and now this guy, definitely met the member criteria. His tall, athletic frame was softened by his tousled brown locks on his head, his moss-green eyes, and the deep dimple pooling in his left cheek. She thought about asking for his autograph, although she didn’t know why.
“Monica, this is Dr. Kyler Rockwood.” Levi stepped back as Monica offered her hand. He looked down at the oven mitt. “Sorry.”
She slipped her hand free. “It’s nice to meet you.” She smiled at the man with movie-star good looks.
“Please call me Kyler.” He pumped her hand up and down. “And thanks for feeding me. I told Levi I didn’t want to be any trouble, but he said your food is the best he’s ever tasted.”
Monica blushed, probably brighter than the hot-pink mitt on her other hand. “I don’t know about that, but I love to cook and am happy to feed anybody who wants to eat it.”
“I told you.” Levi moved up beside her and put an arm around her waist. She leaned into his frame. “Monica would love to have you over.” The way he held on to her and the natural way he stood beside her felt like they’d been together for months, not days.
“I really hope I’m not imposing.” Kyler’s gaze shifted from Levi to Monica.
“You’re not.” She turned, and Levi moved to the side. Monica picked up the other hot pad and opened the oven door. The chicken sizzled as she took the pan out and set it on the stovetop. “Go ahead and wash up, and I’ll have this ready when you get back.”
“I’ll run my things upstairs, and Kyler, there’s a bathroom down the hall and to your right.” Levi pointed, and Kyler nodded. As he left, Levi turned to Monica. “Thank you for having him. He’s got his work cut out for him at the hospital and could use one of your home-cooked meals after the day he’s had.”
“You’re welcome.” She stood on her toes and kissed his cheek. “Anything for you.” Her feet settled back on the floor. The words replayed in her mind—anything for you—and she’d meant it.
* * *
“Eureka Springs is quite the place.” Levi sipped from his water glass. “I’ve only been here a week, and the town has sure grown on me.”
Kyler stabbed a piece of chicken with a fork. “I can see that.” He raised an unruly brow, and amusement shone in his eyes as his gaze darted from Levi to Monica.
Levi’s face heated as he tossed a scowl in Kyler’s direction. Kyler was one of the few doctors in the many hospitals Levi had worked in over the last few years to remain his friend even after he’d left. Levi’s list of friends wasn’t long, but he’d discovered a few good ones over the years, and Kyler was one of them.
“What made you decide to come to Eureka Springs?” Monica sprinkled salt onto her asparagus. “I know you’re working at the hospital, but how come Eureka Springs over another location?”
Kyler put his fork down and dabbed his mouth with a napkin. “It was the timing of it all. I knew I needed a change but hadn’t gotten serious about it until Levi called and offered me a job.”
“We’re glad you’re here.” Monica smiled and cut into her potato. “I haven’t been here all that long myself, but I used to visit my aunt and I’ve always had a soft spot for this place.”
“You’ll have to look into the history and its natural springs. The Native Americans were the first people to use the springs.” Levi grinned at Monica, and a wide smile covered her face. “If you want to know more, there’s a ghost tour I can recommend.”
“A what?” Kyler choked and coughed on the food in his mouth. “A ghost tour?”
“Believe me, I know what it sounds like, but Monica talked me into it and it really was cool. You get to hear old ghost stories and all sorts of history about the town.” Levi chuckled at the bewildered look on his friend’s face.
“Interesting.” Kyler’s voice lacked conviction. “It sounds like there’s a lot of things I need to check out around here. The cousin I’m staying with told me I need to take some trolley tour. She mentioned the springs and a hotel that’s rumored to be haunted.
”
“The Crescent Hotel,” Monica piped up. “Although most hotels around here like to boast of at least one ghost or two.”
Kyler furrowed his brow and looked to Levi, who shrugged and laughed. “You’ll get used to it.” A thought jumped out at him. “I wonder about the hospital. No one’s mentioned anything about a ghost there.”
“Come to think of it, I’ve never heard of one either,” Monica added. A vacant stare came over her as if she were searching her mind for an answer. “Nope, I don’t recall one.”
Levi knew just the person to ask. “I’ll have to check with Lily. If anyone knows, she will.”
“I’d have to agree with you.” Kyler chuckled. “I just met the woman, but she seems to know something about everyone.”
“Yes, she does, and she’s willing to share that information with just about anyone.” Levi pointed his finger at Kyler. “Remember that before you tell her anything. That said, Lily’s great, and I don’t think I would’ve survived this week without her.”
Kyler gave a slight nod. “While I’m thinking about it, when do you want to take a drive out to that place I was telling you about? Mountain Cove?”
“Monica and I went yesterday. It’s quite the place, and I’d be happy to go with you anytime you want to see it.” Levi leaned back in his chair, relishing the feel of his satiated appetite. “I need to meet with my contractor anyway.”
“Your contractor?” Kyler gave him an incredulous look. “You bought a place?”
“Yeah, I had your friend Koven send me some info. It’s a waterfront property, so that’s cool, and the house is still under construction, so I can make it my own.”
“So you’re planning on staying in Eureka Springs longer than a few months?” Kyler’s questioning gaze felt like a spotlight in an interrogation room, with Monica waiting on the other side of the glass for his honest confession. Levi glanced at Monica, who appeared to be studying the plate pattern.
“I’m not sure, but the house and property are a good investment no matter what happens.” Levi looked from Kyler to Monica, whose hazel eyes met his. He smiled, searching her face for a mutual understanding. When she blinked softly and the corners of her mouth turned up, he exhaled.
Levi’s phone vibrated. He took out the device and read the screen. “Excuse me for a minute. It’s the architect for the hospital.” He got up and went into the hallway, but not before Monica reached out and squeezed his hand. Levi grinned to himself; he couldn’t imagine what Kyler thought about his relationship with Monica.
Relationship?
He rested his back against the wall, the word echoing in his mind as he answered the call.
* * *
“Can I get you anything else?” Monica took the empty plate from Kyler.
“No, thank you.” He pushed his chair back and stood up. “Here, let me help you.” Kyler took the glasses from the table.
“Oh no, don’t worry about it.” Monica deposited the dishes in the sink. “You’re the guest.”
“It’s the least I can do.” Kyler set the glasses next to the plates. “Levi was right. That was one of the best meals I’ve ever had.”
“Thank you.” Monica blushed. “It’s a passion.”
“Your chicken was evidence of that.” He smiled at her.
Monica admired his movie-star looks once more, but her heart didn’t flutter like it did whenever Levi walked in the room. Kyler was like a work of museum art she appreciated, but Levi was more like an original color she hadn’t noticed was missing from her life portrait until now.
“Speaking of evident …” Kyler interrupted her thoughts. “I think it’s pretty evident you’ve made quite the impression on Levi.”
Monica didn’t know what to say. “It goes both ways.” She headed back to the table.
Kyler followed her. “I’ve never seen him be this relaxed and casual around anyone before. He’s usually pretty serious and doesn’t let people in that easily.”
“I don’t think either one of us can explain it.” She looked up at him. “On one hand, it feels like I’ve known him forever, and on the other hand, I only met him a week ago.”
“Maybe when it’s right, it’s right, and time isn’t relevant.” Kyler collected the silverware. “Maybe you’re two kindred souls, destined to find each other.” There was a playful tone to his voice.
“The big question is, what happens when the project is over and it’s time for him to go? I don’t know if ‘destined to meet’ is the same as ‘destined to be together.’” Monica didn’t want to think about that now. She’d agreed with Levi to take things day by day. It was way too soon to be talking about forever anyway. Her mind agreed, but her stubborn heart needed some convincing, a little sweetening up. “How about some dessert?” Monica went to the fridge and opened the door. “Oh no.” The strawberry glaze she’d prepared earlier must’ve been tipped over.
“Everything okay?” Kyler called from behind her.
“Yeah.” Monica hoped it wasn’t a lie, but serving strawberry shortcake without the strawberry sauce was a little difficult. Was this some sort of sign? Or was this simply Aunt Gwen up to her usual tricks? She reached for the bowl dripping with red gelatin. Monica stood up as she pushed aside her worry and turned to Kyler. “How do you feel about a dish of ice cream?”
Chapter Seventeen
Monica had never seen anything more precious in her whole life. Her new guests, the Little family, were gathered around the dining room table Tuesday evening, along with Levi and herself. Everyone was finished with their meal but continued to enjoy the conversation, although Levi’s wide eyes and nervous smile made her think he might be a little uncomfortable.
“I’m so sorry,” Dana Little said to Levi. “I’ve never seen Bo be like this with anyone.”
Two-year-old Bo, with tufts of blond curls and cherubic cheeks, the kind begging for kisses, squirmed and wriggled until his dad, David, took him out of the highchair Monica had purchased earlier that morning when she’d realized a portable crib wasn’t the only thing she needed. Bo’s small feet hit the ground, and he reached up for Levi. Levi’s gaze darted from Dana to Monica, perhaps a silent plea for help, but Monica sat back and grinned.
“It’s okay.” Levi took the boy and placed him on his lap. Dana pulled a toy from her pocket and offered it to Bo, whose dimpled hands snatched the plastic car, and he settled into Levi’s chest. “I’ve never really been around little kids.” The uncertainty in his voice was one more reason Monica couldn’t stop herself for falling for the man.
“Well, you must be a natural.” David sat back and rubbed his eyes. “I bet he’ll be asleep in less than five minutes.”
Monica watched as Bo’s eyelids slowly fell and then quickly opened, but seconds later, he lost the fight. Bo’s fawn-brown lashes, button nose, and pouted pink lips melted her heart. “He looks like an angel.”
“Most of the time.” Dana smiled as she looked over her sleeping son. Monica wondered what that felt like, to look at a child and know they were yours. “Thank heavens for naps and bedtimes.” A yawn escaped, and Dana covered her mouth with her hand. “Oh, excuse me.” She shook her head and smiled. “I guess we’re all tired after a long day.”
David nodded as he pushed back his chair and stood up. He stretched his arms into the air. “I know I am.”
“Thank you for the wonderful meal, Monica. It was delicious.” Dana got up and began stacking plates.
“Oh no.” Monica hopped up out of her chair. “You’re a guest on vacation.” She took the plate from Dana. “No dishes for you.”
“Are you sure? I don’t mind.”
“Sorry, it’s in the paperwork you signed.” Monica grinned. “And if you need anything, anytime, day or night, please don’t hesitate to ask me.”
“Thank you.” David leaned over and took Bo from Levi. “The room looks great and the bathroom’s well stocked, but if we need anything, we’ll let you know.”
Monica smiled. “Good nigh
t, then. Get some rest.”
Levi got up. “Good night.”
The Littles left down the hall, and Monica sighed at the creak of the stairs as they made their way to their room. “I think that went okay.” She turned to Levi, who’d already started collecting the glasses.
“It went great.” Levi headed towards the sink. “I don’t think mine will be the only five-star review.” He set the cups down and turned, catching her by the waist. “And I want you to know I’d still give The Red Pearl five stars even if I wasn’t planning on kissing the cook.”
Monica laughed. “I would hope so.” She stared into his eyes, loving the welcome she saw in them. “But you’re my guest, and guests don’t do the dishes.”
He leaned in and gently brushed her lips with his. “This one does.” Levi kissed her again. “And I hope I’m more than a guest to you.”
She moved, and Levi loosened his grip just enough for her to put the dishes on the counter. Monica put her arms around his neck and pulled him to her. “You’re definitely more than a guest.”
“Good.” Levi pressed his forehead to hers. “Because I wanted to ask you out on a date, and I wasn’t sure if you dated guests … well, more than twice.” He shrugged beneath her arms. “I know you kiss them, but—”
“Ha, ha.” Monica narrowed her gaze and tried to bite back her smile. “I didn’t know you were so funny.”
“There’s a lot of things we don’t know about each other.” Levi’s look intensified. “So let’s fix that. Go out with me?”
Thud. Monica and Levi startled as a pan crashed to the floor, barely missing Levi’s foot. Monica sucked in a deep breath. Got it, Great-Aunt Gwen. You don’t want me to go out with him. She wouldn’t be bullied by a ghost, no matter how much she knew that ghost loved her. “I want to, but I’m not sure when I can.” When Monica had started this adventure, she’d known running her own B&B would be demanding and she probably wouldn’t have a lot of time for herself, and she hadn’t cared. But that was before Levi. “The Littles leave on Saturday morning, and the next guests are due on Sunday.”
