The Doctor's Baby(34)
“Dinner?”
“Followed by a dance,” David said. “There’s also a silent auction and a fashion show by staff.”
A mischievous glint filled July’s eyes. “Are you modeling?”
“Absolutely not.” That’s where David had drawn the line. As a member of the medical staff, he was required to attend, but parading across the stage…no way.
July picked up the pace. “Do you socialize a lot?”
“Only what’s required,” David said. “But after your remark the other day, I’m trying to change.”
July slanted him a sideways glance. “What did I say?”
“Basically you told me I needed to get a life.”
“I did not say that.”
“It’s okay.” David smiled. “You were right. I’ve been going through the motions for way too long. I’m ready to start living.”
The entrance to the Refuge was in sight. While walking with David had given July additional insight into his character, more time was needed. She had to figure out a way to get him to ask her out. Maybe as she became more comfortable with him, she’d be able to be honest about Adam’s paternity.
Unfortunately she’d spent so much time pushing David away she wasn’t sure that would happen. She slanted a sideways glance at his handsome profile.
The clock was ticking. In a couple weeks her assignment would be completed and she’d have a decision to make about Adam’s future.#p#分页标题#e#
“About this event tonight, can people bring dates?”
“Of course,” David said, sounding surprised. “The event is open to the community.”
Though she wasn’t much for big fancy galas, this would be the perfect opportunity for some one-on-one time with David. Seeing him in a tux would be an extra bonus. July slowed her steps and turned to face him. “I was thinking, if you aren’t already planning to go with someone, can I come and be your date?”
She braced herself for an enthusiastic yes. Maybe even a hug. She waited. And waited. And waited.
His eyes locked with hers. “I wish I’d known this last week before—”
July’s heart sank to her toes. A sick feeling took up residence in the pit of her stomach. “Before?”
“Before I asked Rachel Milligan to go with me.”
July took a sip of juice and peered over the top of the glass at Mary Karen. She’d been waiting since she’d walked into the kitchen for just the right opportunity. With the baby fed and Mary Karen’s boys still sleeping, this seemed to be it. She lowered the glass and forced a casual tone. “Did you know your brother is taking Rachel Milligan to the hospital fundraiser tonight?”
Mary Karen dropped a bagel into the toaster, pushed down the lever and turned to face July. “I’m happy to hear that.” She paused and her gaze searched July’s face. “That’s not good?”
“No, it’s great.” July shoved her bowl of Raisin Bran aside, no longer hungry. When David had told her he had a date—okay so maybe he hadn’t called it a date—it had been all July could do to keep it together.
Not because she cared who he dated, but because she felt like a fool for assuming she could beckon and he’d come running.
“July?” Mary Karen dropped into the chair next to her. “Are you interested in dating my brother?”
July resisted the urge to shush her. Granny stood outside the kitchen window mulching the rose bushes, and they both knew the woman had ears like a bat. Instead, she lowered her own voice and forced a casual tone. “I might be.”
If “dating” was the only way to resolve her dilemma, then yes, she was definitely interested.
“That’s wonderful.” Mary Karen’s lips parted in a wide smile.
“Did you somehow miss the part where I told you he’s taking Rachel to the dance?”
“They’re just friends,” Mary Karen said with a dismissive wave.
“She’s very pretty,” July said with a sigh. “And sweet.”
“Trust me,” Mary Karen said. “There’s nothing between them.”
“I was looking forward to going to the event,” July said, realizing it was true.
“It’s always fun.” A wistful expression crossed Mary Karen’s face. “I used to attend every year.”
“Even if David would have wanted to go with me, I wouldn’t have had anything to wear,” July said with a sigh.
Mary Karen brought a finger to her lips. “I think I have something that would work.”
“It doesn’t matter.” July should be in the Jeep with her camera beside her, heading for the mountains. Instead she remained in her seat, nursing a barely warm cup of coffee. “I’m certainly not going by myself.”