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Dillan shakes his head, expression firm. “It’s not flattery if it’s true.”
He’s always been a smooth talker, and that clearly hasn’t changed. If anything, combined with his good looks it’s more intense. He was attractive before, but the older he’s gotten, the more handsome he’s become. It’s not just his muscular physique—his features have sharpened up. Those expressive eyes of his now hold the gaze of a man who always gets what he wants.
Here and now, he wants me.
“Probably not, but I’m still going to call it that,” I declare. “So, aside from being a big hot-shot doctor—what else do you have going on?”
I’m determined not to come across as a shy schoolgirl with a crush, like I did when we first hung out in high school. I remember being a babbling, rambling mess back then. Yet, while I am experiencing a sudden degree of nervousness about reconnecting with Dillan, it isn’t nearly as bad as it was all those years ago.
“Well, besides the ‘big hot-shot doctor gig,’ I’ve been delving into advanced training in my medical field, tiptoeing on the precarious edge of the ever-evolving healthcare landscape. And, of course, the ongoing quest to find the perfect Scotch—because even hot-shots need their preferred spirits.” His tone carries a hint of amusement, and I can’t help but laugh. “Weekends are all about the roar of motorcycle engines. Got a few buddies here in New York who share the same love for the open road. We meet up, ride, and let the wind sort out the rest. Other than that, work keeps me pretty busy, especially with the move and all the extra responsibilities.”
“Where have you been this whole time?” I absently toy with the rim of my glass.
“A couple of different places. Practiced in South Africa for a couple of months, then in the UK, then moved to Tennessee. Right now, I work at a joint clinic with a few other doctors.” He pauses for a moment, taking another good look at me. “I take it you’re not seeing anyone?”
My heart skips a beat.
“I was, but we broke up recently. What about you?” I feign casualness, hoping my eagerness to know doesn’t seep through. “Are you seeing anyone?”
“No, I’m not.”
“Are you married?” I ask, maybe a bit too quickly.
He shakes his head. “No, not married. No kids.”
A flicker of happiness dances in my thoughts. No ring, no kids. This just got interesting.
“Why no kids?” I ask after taking another sip of wine.
“Ah, the eternal question. Honestly, never wanted kids for some reason. Not that I don’t appreciate the idea of a family, but I’ve always been engrossed in my medical career. It’s demanding, and I love the sense of purpose it gives me. As for kids, I believe in giving them the time and attention they deserve, and my focus is on my patients.” A glint of sincerity shines in his eyes. “Plus, I value the quiet moments of serenity when I’m not at the hospital. It’s a lifestyle choice, really. I’m content with where I am now.” He casts a lingering gaze, his eyes sparkling with a depth that goes beyond words. I don’t even try to play it cool. I’m captivated by the authenticity in his gaze. It kind of feels like I don’t have to pretend to Dillan, and that feels good. “Enough about me. I want to hear more about you. How have you been?”
“Also busy. But I’ve got to say, today has definitely been a highlight for me,” I admit. “In all honesty, I really appreciate you getting me out of that date, although I would have gone through with it.”
“No problem,” Dillan says, and finishes his whisky. “Of course, as a savior of the damsel in distress, I get three wishes as a reward.”
“Ha! You’ve got it all mixed up.” I smack his arm playfully. “First, only fairy godmothers grant three wishes, and I’m definitely not a fairy godmother. Second, if anything, I’m a self-rescuing princess.” I pause dramatically, enjoying the twinkle of anticipation in his eyes. “However, since today was the most unexpected night in ages, I might just grant your three wishes...or maybe I won’t.”
“Oh, it’s inevitable.” He raises a brow, challenge in his features, then he winks at me. It’s the cutest wink I’ve ever seen. His lashes are long, thick, dark, and I’m pretty sure I feel my nipples perk up. Clearly, my excitement over the evening’s possibilities has reached a new high.
“Bold assumption, Doc.”
“It’s as good as done.”
I trace the rim of my glass with my fingertips. “All right then—what do you have in mind?”
“Let’s see.” His eyes lock with mine. “For my first wish, I want to create a new memory with you. One that we’ll both cherish…deeply.”
If my nipples weren’t already standing at attention, they would be now. The lilt in his husky voice leaves little room for misinterpretation.
Leaning in closer, I align my body alongside his, asking, “How about we have another round and you tell me about your other two wishes?”
His head moves closer, his cheek grazing my ear and an electric thrill shoots through me. My heart races with a mix of excitement and anticipation.
“Or we can get out of here instead,” he rumbles.
The suggestion hangs in the air for a moment, sizzling hot.
When he straightens, his eyes burn into mine.
