Surprise Delivery(41)

“Like I said, it’s complicated,” I repeat. “I’m telling you this because I’m just reinforcing what I told you before, Brad – I need a friend right now more than anything. That’s all I need or want. And if you can be a friend to me, that’s wonderful. If not, I understand completely and no hard feelings whatsoever. I just wanted to be truthful with you.”

He takes a drink of his cappuccino and nods. “Of course, and I appreciate your honesty, Lexi,” he says. “I’m just sorry you’re stuck in such a bad situation.”

I shrug. “It’s life,” I say. “And I need to focus on what I’m going to do moving forward.”

“I understand,” he says.

We share a look and it makes me want to believe he actually does understand – which comes as a relief to me. Brad surprises me when he reaches across the table and takes my hand, giving it a firm squeeze.

“I want you to know that I’m your friend, Lexi,” he says, his voice earnest. “I’m here for you, no matter what. Please, don’t ever hesitate to ask me if you need something – anything. I want to help you any way I can. As your friend.”

I squeeze his hand in return and smile. His voice is sincere, and I actually believe he means it. Maybe telling him I’m pregnant upfront has shifted his thinking. Maybe I didn’t give him enough credit for being able to make that turn. Either that or maybe he’s not quite as into me as I thought he was.

Either way, it doesn’t matter. All that matters is that Brad is okay with being friends – which takes a huge weight off my shoulders.





Thirteen





Duncan





Six Months Later…





I’m sitting in Harold Dawson’s office staring at the paperwork on the desk in front of me. Dawson is the administrator for the outfit here in Syria and for the last couple of months, he’s been putting on the hard sell to keep me here since my tour is up. The guy has offered me the moon to retain me. He’s offered me my choice in assignments – provided I split that time between there and back here in Syria. They’ve also offered me a number of other perks and incentives in an effort to keep me.

But they can’t offer me what I really want – time with Alexis.

Honestly, if not for the thought of spending time with her and exploring that connection we shared all those months ago, I probably wouldn’t think twice about re-upping. Hell, I’d probably even stay right where I am – where I know I’m doing some good.

“What do you think, Dr. Clyburne?” Dawson asks.

It’s tempting. It’s really tempting. Over here, I can honestly say I feel like I’m making a difference and am genuinely saving lives. It also doesn’t hurt that in my time here, I’ve felt more alive than I have in years. It’s crazy, but most days I feel like I’ve got electricity running through my veins. Not every day is sunshine and roses, of course. There have been plenty of bad days and dark moments. Overall, though, I’ve gotten exactly what I’ve hoped to out of this experience.

Which is what makes the idea of sticking around all the more appealing. After all, it’s been eight months now. For all I know, Alexis has already moved on. She may be happy and content with somebody in her life.

I couldn’t blame her if she did move on. It’s not like I have any claim on her. And I wasn’t exactly specific about when I’d be back. I definitely left the door open to the possibility that I might be staying in Syria – or someplace else abroad – for a long while. So, if she moved on, I can’t possibly be upset about it.

But at the time, I had no idea she’d be so stuck in my head. I had no idea that my feelings would develop like they have or be as strong as they are. But they have developed, and they are very strong, which is not just baffling to me, but incredibly exciting too.

If I’m being honest, being with Alexis – even for just that one night – filled me with that electricity I’ve been searching for. No, it’s not the same as being in the middle of a warzone – it’s definitely different. But I can’t deny that my feelings for Alexis lit me up inside in ways I never counted on, expected, or thought they would.

And can I really turn my back on exploring that with her?

I’m honestly torn. It’s a big decision to make and one that, not to be too dramatic, could potentially alter the course of my life.

“It’s tempting,” I say. “I love what we’re doing here.”

“Then stick around,” Dawson says. “We can sure use somebody like you. You’re an amazing surgeon, Duncan.”

“I appreciate that,” I say.

“You’re doing a lot of good here, Duncan,” he continues. “And you can do a lot more. We desperately need good people here.”

I look at the papers again as an image of Alexis floats through my mind. That red hair, those sparkling green eyes, and that smile that lights up not just the room, but my soul as well – and that’s what makes the decision for me.

“Harold, I really appreciate the opportunity,” I say. “I just have some things back home I need to attend to.”

A look of disappointment crosses his face, but he nods. “I understand,” he says. “But, are you sure there’s nothing I can say or do to make you change your mind?”