Home Sweet Alaska

by Beth Carpenter

  CHAPTER NINETEEN

  BECAUSE SCOTT HAD been the on-call doctor the weekend before, he had Tuesday morning off. And for once, he knew exactly what he planned to do with it. The day dawned with hardly a cloud in the sky, which Scott took to be a good omen.

  Volta had said Emma’s riding lessons were at ten thirty. Scott managed to arrive at the stables at ten forty. He was walking toward the barn when he saw Volta coming toward him. She was looking down at her phone, so he was able to watch her for a minute without her knowing he was there. Today she wore a simple dress that swished around her legs as she walked. Her hair bounced on her shoulders. Whenever he stopped to watch her like this, she took his breath away.

  She finished whatever she was doing on her phone, slipped it into the bag that hung from her shoulder and looked up to see him only a few yards away. Her feet slowed. “Scott. I thought we agreed—”

  “I know. Emma. That’s why I waited until her lesson started. I need to talk with you.”

  “I...” She looked around as though Emma might jump out from behind a bush any minute. “I was about to go grocery shopping.”

  “I’ll go with you.”

  She looked as though she planned to argue, but suddenly she laughed. “Fine. You can push my cart. I’m going to the store on Huffman.”

  “I’ll follow you.”

  Five minutes later, they pulled into the parking lot. Scott found a place three spots down from hers. When he got to her car, she handed him a stack of shopping bags. “Here. Carry these.”

  “Yes, ma’am.” He took the bags and followed her into the store.

  She consulted a list while he selected a shopping cart, and then she led the way to the produce section. “I need Yukon gold potatoes and fresh dill.”

  “Potato salad?”

  She nodded. “My in-laws are coming for dinner tonight. Leith brought me some fresh salmon, so I thought I’d grill it.”

  “That sounds delicious.”

  “I’ll need cabbage and carrots for slaw, too.” She walked up and down the aisles, crossing items off her list. He pushed the cart, allowing her set the pace. She knew he wanted to talk.

  She checked out and let him pack the groceries into the back seat of her car before she looked at her watch. “I need to pick up Emma in twenty minutes, which means I can give you fifteen to say whatever it is you need to say. Is that enough?”

  It would have to be. “I saw a coffee kiosk inside,” Scott said. “I’ll buy you a vanilla latte while we talk.”

  That made her smile. He loved making her smile. They went inside, placed their orders and settled at an empty table nearby. Volta leaned forward. “So, what is this all about?”

  “I delivered a baby on Sunday.”

  She nodded. “That’s nice, but from what I can tell, you’ve delivered hundreds of babies.”

  “Yes.” He grinned at her. “That’s kind of the point. I’ve delivered hundreds of babies, on every continent except Antarctica. But this was the first baby I’ve ever delivered for a woman I’ve gotten to know.”

  “A friend of yours?”

  “No, I’m talking about a patient. I’ve been her regular doctor for the last month and she trusted me, not as a last resort, but because she knew me and believed that I would take good care of her and her baby.”

  “And did you take good care of her?”

  “I did. There were minor complications—shoulder dystocia—but they’re both fine. And I feel good about that. You said I’m trying to save the world, but maybe I was going about it wrong. Instead of trying to fit in as many patients as I possibly can wherever they may be, I need to develop relationships with my patients. I want to concentrate on one patient at a time.”

  She reached across the table to squeeze his hand. “I’m happy for you.”

  The barista dropped off their drinks. Volta closed her eyes and inhaled the aroma of coffee and vanilla. “Irresistible. You know all my weaknesses.”

  He hoped so. “Patients aren’t the only relationships I want to build.” He looked into her blue eyes. “I know I’ve hurt you, but I’m asking for another chance. Just a little time together to prove I can be the man you need me to be.”

  She paused, sipping her coffee. “Not with Emma. Not yet.”

  He nodded. “All right. But is there a way to see you alone?”

  She stretched her fingers in that exercise she did when she was thinking. “Tonight after dinner, Emma is having a sleepover with her grandparents in their RV. I could meet you for a drink.”

  “Name the place.”

  “Moose’s Tooth in midtown? I’m not sure when. I’ll have to text you.”

  “I’ll be waiting.”

  * * *

  DINNER WITH HANNAH and Jim passed in dog years. Stacy was there, too. Volta had hoped she would have gone home to Utah by now, but she seemed content to hang out with her folks.

  “How’s the job search going?” Volta asked her as she passed the coleslaw around the table.

  “Slowly,” Stacy admitted. “I’ve applied for two jobs in Salt Lake, but I haven’t heard back yet. I sent in a resume for one here in Anchorage yesterday.”

  “You’re thinking of staying here?”

  “Maybe. It depends.” She looked at Emma. “I’d get to spend more time with my favorite niece.” She held up a hand. Emma giggled and high-fived her.

  Jim and Hannah talked about their travels and made plans for popcorn and a movie in their motor home with Emma tonight. They were finishing their dessert when Emma mentioned the baby loons in the park one block over, and Jim declared they should walk over and see them. Volta almost groaned aloud at the delay.

  But finally, Emma was buckled next to Stacy into the back seat of the car her grandparents towed behind their RV. Her backpack, sleeping bag and stuffed dog, Rufus, were stowed away in the trunk. Volta waved goodbye and waited until they were out of sight before she pulled out her phone and sent a text. They’re gone. Are we still on?

  Scott answered immediately. On my way.

  Fifteen minutes later, Volta made her way from the parking lot to wait with the crowd at the entrance of the most popular brewpub in Anchorage. Maybe it was a mistake trying to meet Scott there. Maybe it was a mistake to try to meet Scott at all, but here she was.

  Hardening her heart when he’d said he loved her was the hardest thing she’d ever done. But for Emma’s well-being, and her own, she’d had to say no. No, he couldn’t be a part of their lives, only to disappear again, leaving a gaping hole. But seeing him today, excited at his epiphany over patient care, had loosened her resolve. He was trying so hard. The least she could do was listen.

  A sudden touch against Volta’s back made her turn, and he was there. Scott bent down to brush his lips across hers, the casual kiss of a longtime lover. He was assuming a lot, but the happiness the kiss provoked made it hard to disapprove. Before she could react, the party of eight in front of them moved aside to wait for a table. Scott urged her forward to talk with the hostess.

  “Table for two, please.” They were in luck. The hostess gathered menus and asked them to follow right away. As they passed by a row of booths, Volta heard her name called. Mike, the pilot, waved at her. He was sitting with his wife and another couple. Volta and Scott greeted them briefly before following the hostess, who was tapping her toe, waiting to guide them to a table tucked away in the corner.

  Once the hostess had gone, Scott chuckled. “So much for a clandestine meeting.”

  Volta shrugged. “Apparently I’m not much good at choosing secret rendezvous locations. But it doesn’t matter. Emma is with her grandparents at the campground, and it’s not as though she and Mike run in the same circles.”

  The waiter came to take their drink orders. After he left, Scott opened the menu. “I’ve heard great things about the pizza here. What should I order?”<
br />
  “You haven’t had dinner?” It was almost nine.

  “I wasn’t sure when you would call. The Santa’s Little Helper pizza sounds good.”

  “You never could resist a jalapeño.”

  “Why even try? Would you like an appetizer?”

  “No, thanks. I might have a bite of pizza if you’ll share.”

  “With you? Always.”

  The waiter returned with their drinks, poured the beers and took Scott’s order. When he was gone, Scott lifted his glass. “To happiness.”

  “I can’t argue with that.” Volta clinked her glass against his. “Happiness for all.”

  They both sipped their drinks. Scott set his down. “Tell me about Emma. How was horse camp?”

  “On one hand, she enjoyed being around horses and horse people all day. But most of what they were teaching, she already knew. It’s my fault for signing up for the beginner’s session, but at the time I registered her, I didn’t know Mom and Dad were going to give her private lessons, and I sure didn’t know you would be tutoring her.”

  “That’s too bad. I take it she’s back to lessons?”

  Volta nodded. “There’s a new guy named Len. He’s no ball of fire, but he seems to be teaching her what she needs to know. Cait, her original instructor, is supposed to be back soon.”

  They chatted some more, and the waiter brought the pizza. Scott picked up a piece and took a bite. “Oh, this is good. I can’t remember the last time I had pizza with jalapeños.”

  “Maybe you should indulge more often.”

  “Maybe I will.” He met her eyes across the table. “It’s taken me a long time, but I’m finally figuring out I don’t have to sacrifice everything that makes me happy in order to help people. And nothing in my life has ever made me happier than you.”

  “Scott—”

  “It’s okay. We’ll take it slow. I realize I’m going to have to prove myself to you. It’s going to take some work to find my place, but I’m determined. You’ll see. Here, try a bite of this.” He held the slice for her and let her nip off a bite.

  Then he set the slice on his plate and leaned across the table. “You have some cheese right here.” He ran his thumb over her chin. Then he smiled and leaned further to brush her lips with his own.

  Something flashed. Volta turned to see Stacy standing there, looking at the image on her cell phone with a self-righteous look on her face. Stacy didn’t bother with preamble. “I thought you said he was leaving town.”

  Volta didn’t flinch. “He came back.”

  “No kidding.” Stacy turned to Scott. “Girl in every port, or do you think she’s special?” Without pausing, she answered her own question. “Because if you do, you’re mistaken. She’s a sponge. No loyalty at all.” Before he or Volta could answer, Stacy turned and flounced away.

  Things were about to get ugly.

  * * *

  VOLTA DIDN’T LEARN just how ugly until late the next morning. After a sleepless night, she was busying herself pulling chickweed from the flower bed on the side of the house when Jim and Hannah’s car pulled up with Stacy in the driver’s seat. She opened the back door, and Emma spilled out, tears flowing down her face. Emma was not a crier. This was serious.

  Emma ran to Volta. “Were you kissing Dr. Scott?”

  “Sweetie...” Volta reached out to her, but Emma shrugged off her hug. “Tell me.”

  Stacy followed, carrying Emma’s things, looking smug. “Let’s go inside, Emma. The three of us have stuff to talk about.”

  “No. We don’t.” Volta snatched the items away from Stacy. “Emma and I need to talk. You need to leave.”

  “But Emma wants—”

  “I’ll take care of Emma.” Volta rested a hand on Emma’s back and nudged her forward. “Go in the house, sweetheart. I’ll be right there.” Emma grabbed her stuffed dog and dragged herself through the front door.

  Stacy glared at Volta. “Who do you think you are?”

  “I’m Emma’s mother and this is my house. And I’m telling you to go away.”

  Volta turned on her heel and marched inside, locking the dead bolt behind her with an audible click. She could hear Stacy muttering something and then the slam of a car door. Volta sucked in a deep, calming breath. Now, where was Emma?

  She found her in her room, sprawled across her bed. Emma lifted a tearstained face toward her mother. “You did, didn’t you? Aunt Stacy showed me a picture.”

  “Yes, I kissed him. Emma, Scott’s here because he wants to be with us. I told him he couldn’t see you anymore until—”

  “I don’t want to see him. Ever.”

  “Why?”

  “Because he’s bad. He promised he’d be there for the show, but he broke his promise. He works in other places far away. I don’t want you to get married again.”

  “Who said anything about marriage?”

  “Aunt Stacy. She showed me the picture of you kissing him. Please don’t marry him, Mommy.” The tears were flowing like Thunderbird Falls in the spring. “I don’t like him.”

  “Shh, it’s okay, sweetheart.” Volta pulled her into a hug. “I’m not going to marry him.”

  “Promise?” Emma demanded. “Promise you’ll never marry him?”

  Volta stroked her back. “I promise I’ll never marry anyone you don’t want me to marry. Okay?”

  Emma sniffed. “Really?”

  “Really.” Volta passed her a box of tissues. “I love you to infinity, Emma.”

  Emma paused and blew her nose. Finally, in a small voice she replied, “Plus one.”

  Volta squeezed her tight.

  CHAPTER TWENTY

  VOLTA WAS ALREADY at a table when Scott walked into the coffee shop, the same table where he’d met her before just after he arrived in town. Her face was pale. Even the blue of her eyes seemed duller than usual. He took his seat and reached across the table for her hand. “Are you okay?”

  “I’m sorry, Scott.” Volta licked her lower lip. “I considered calling, but I feel like I should say this face-to-face.” She met his eyes. “It’s over.”

  “I don’t understand.” Scott pushed his hair back from his forehead. “Why?”

  “It’s Emma. Just the thought of us together sent her into a panic.”

  “But Emma likes me. We get along fine.”

  “Apparently, she took it harder than I realized that you had to leave her before the show.” Volta shredded the napkin on the table in front of her. “She doesn’t trust you.”

  “Did you tell her I wasn’t avoiding her by choice? That I wanted to see her when I came back and only stayed away because you asked me to?”

  “I did. I explained that I didn’t want you spending time together until I was sure. But when I said that, she cried even harder.” Volta blinked away a few tears of her own. “You should have seen her, Scott. She was so upset at the idea that I might marry you.”

  He frowned. Something didn’t add up. “Did you mention marriage? I thought the plan was to take it slow.”

  “I didn’t. Stacy must have put the idea into her head. But it’s clear Emma is never going to accept you.” She reached for Scott’s hand. “It’s not going to work. I thought we could be together, but we can’t. We need to break it off now, before it goes any further.”

  Those were almost the exact words he’d used when he broke up with Volta eleven years ago in Hawaii. He’d never realized just how inadequate they were...before it goes any further? He’d given her his whole heart. How much further could it possibly go?

  He wanted to debate with her, to point out the unreasonableness of the decision. The three of them belonged together. Everything he felt inside said so.

  But Volta was a mother. She put the well-being of her daughter before her own happiness. And she was convinced Scott wasn’t good for Emma. How coul
d he argue with that?

  Icicles formed inside his chest. Eleven years ago, Scott had made the biggest mistake of his life when he broke up with Volta. He’d thought fate was giving him a second chance here in Alaska. Apparently, fate was laughing at him.

  * * *

  THE NEXT SATURDAY MORNING, Scott lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, wishing the phone would ring to summon him to work. Not very likely, since he wasn’t on call this weekend. What did people do when they weren’t working or traveling, and they had no friends or family?

  He rolled out of bed and started coffee and toast, which were pretty much the extent of his cooking skills. He hadn’t had a kitchen to practice in since he was a resident, and he’d spent most of his waking hours then at the hospital. Or with Volta.

  Why did every thought lead back to Volta? It was over. She’d said it; it was done. No matter what he thought, what he believed, it took two to make a relationship, and Volta was out. Regardless of what he wanted. He poured coffee into his cup.

  His first sip burned his tongue, and he set the cup down with a bang, splashing coffee all over the counter. He grabbed a paper towel to wipe it up. When he turned back, smoke rose from the toaster. This pretty much summed up the state of his life right now.

  After dumping the charred toast and the paper towel into the trash, Scott went to shower and shave. Sunlight twinkled through the glass-block window of his bathroom, so at least it wasn’t raining. Maybe horseback riding would improve his mood.

  But Saturday was Emma’s lesson day. Scott checked the time on his phone. Emma’s lesson started in twenty minutes. If he gave her a ten-minute head start, he could take Nugget out on one of the secondary trails for a couple of hours without any danger of running into her. The instructors only took kids on the main trails, where there was more traffic and less chance of running into something unexpected.