21. Frankie

TWENTY-ONE

Frankie

7:41 am

I wake up slowly, the warmth of the sheets wrapping around me like a cocoon. For a moment, I'm disoriented, not entirely sure where I am, until I bury my face in the pillow beside me and breathe in his scent.

Hunter.

I'm in his bed. The realization washes over me, and I let out a soft sigh, snuggling deeper into it.

It's surreal, being here in his place without him. The room is filled with his presence, even though he's not here—his scent lingering in the sheets, the faint hum of the city outside his window. I feel a little out of place, like I'm intruding on something private, even though he invited me to stay.

But there's no time to linger. I know I need to get up and get home to shower before my midmorning meeting with Theo. As much as I'd love to stay here, wrapped up in this moment, in the essence of him, reality is calling.

I stretch out, my hand brushing across the empty side of the bed where Hunter should be. I remember the way he woke me up, his voice soft but urgent as he explained what had happened. I appreciate that he did verses just leaving like he did before.

Poor Grace. I hope she is going to be okay. I don't know her well, but I've heard enough about her to know she's a fixture on the OR floor, someone everyone respects and relies on. The thought of her being down with something so serious sends a pang of concern through me for her family and everyone that works with her.

I reach for my phone on the nightstand, checking the time, and see that I missed a text from Carly. She must have sent it when she went in for her shift at seven. I open it, reading quickly.

Going in now. Grace had a heart attack on the floor early this morning. Sounds like it is a shitshow at the hospital. See you later?

I make a mental note to get to the hospital early enough to stop by and see Carly, to get an update on how Grace is doing. I can't shake the worry that's settled in my chest, even though I barely know the woman. But I know what it's like to be surrounded by people who care about you, who rely on you. The thought of someone like that being taken down is unsettling.

With a sigh, I force myself to sit up, running a hand through my hair as I glance around Hunter's bedroom. The space is neat and orderly, just like the rest of his condo. It's strange to think that just a few hours ago, we were here together, wrapped up in each other, and now he's at the hospital, doing what he does best.

I pull myself out of bed, knowing that I need to get moving if I'm going to make it to the hospital on time. But before I go, I take one last look around the room, letting the reality of everything sink in.

Oh, my God. I need to brush my teeth. I can't imagine that I will have to get all the way home in this state. I need to start traveling with a toothbrush in my bag if we're going to be having these impromptu spend the night parties.

Being here with Hunter, waking up in his bed—it's like we've crossed some invisible line, like things are starting to shift between us in ways I'm not entirely sure I'm ready for.

But for now, I push those thoughts aside. There's too much to do, too much to focus on. I gather my things, dressing quickly and quietly as I prepare to leave. The condo is quiet, almost too quiet without Hunter here, and it's a little lonely, even though I know it's ridiculous.

As I step out of the bedroom, I make sure everything is in place, just as he left it. I'm about to head out the door when I catch sight of the kitchen, the remains of our dinner still on the counter.

I make a quick decision to clean the kitchen. I don't want him to come home to this mess. A small gesture, but it's nice to be able to do something for him. Something about the act itself is somehow turning me on.

When I pull the door closed behind me, the lock clicks into place with such finality that it makes my heart flutter just a little. Something about this entire morning, and the night that proceeded it, is like a fairytale.

As I head down the hallway, I shoot a quick text back to Carly, letting her know I'll be in soon and that I'll stop by to see her. I need to know how Grace is doing, and I need to see my friend. She's going to lose her shit when I tell her I just sent that text from Hunter's.

9:57 am

Pulling into the hospital I get a text back from Carly after I asking for an update on Grace. I let her know I was on the way to the hospital.

Come see me!

I park my car in the hospital garage, my mind still replaying the events of last night against the cold glass window with Hunter as I make my way to the OR floor.

There's about thirty minutes until my meeting, so I'll stop by and see if there's any news about Grace.

I step off the elevator and walk toward the OR, the sterile smell of antiseptic and the busy bustle of hospital activity fill the air. I pick up my pace, eager to find out how Grace is doing.

Turning the corner, I spot Carly down the hall, standing outside a patient room, talking to a couple of nurses. I'm about to turn around and head up to my office when I see Hunter walking by, completely covered in his surgical outfit—scrubs, mask, cap, the works.

My heart skips a beat, and my stomach flutters at the sight of him. He looks so different, so focused, and I'm struck by how commanding he seems in this setting, how in his element. His quiet confidence and power enhances his handsome face and incredible body. The body that was all over mine just a few hours ago.

He's moving quickly, clearly on his way somewhere, but when he spots me, he slows down just enough to walk over. There's a moment of hesitation, but then his eyes soften, and he gives me a quick smile behind the mask.

"Hey," he says, his voice muffled by the mask but still warm. Then he pulls it down, leaving it to rest on his chin.

"Hey, you," I reply, breathless. "How's Grace?"

He glances around, making sure no one is urgently calling him, and then looks back at me. "She's stable. It was a close call, but we got to her in time. She's in the ICU now, and they're monitoring her closely. I'm heading back in to check on her. I just assisted Hughes on a surgery, unplanned. He's still in there but I was able to slip out so I can peek in on Grace before my next patient."

Relief floods through me, and I nod, grateful for the update. "That's good to hear. I'm glad she's going to be okay."

Hunter nods, his eyes lingering on mine for a second longer than necessary. "I'll keep you in the know."

"Thanks," I say, a rush of warmth fills me seeing his concern.

"I trust you found everything you needed at my place? I hated to leave you." Everything except a spare toothbrush.

"Oh, yes, I was fine. Thank you. Only one thing missing," I flirt, the words coming out before I can think better of it. He smiles warmly and then puts his hand on my arm.

"I hate to run again, but I have a patient in ten minutes and want to stop in and check Grace's chart. Can I text you later?"

"Of course. Please, go. Let's talk later."

He gives me a quick nod before heading off down the hall, and I watch him go, my heart still racing. There's something about seeing him like this, so focused, so dedicated, that makes me admire him even more.

As I turn back to Carly, who's now watching me with an amused expression, I know I'm not hiding anything from her. She grins as I approach, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

"Oh my freaking hell, Frankie," she says, barely holding back a laugh. "I've never seen you or Hunter, for that matter, with such googly eyes. You're in trouble, girl."

I can't help but laugh, rolling my eyes at her teasing. "You don't even know the half of it," I whisper, leaning in closer. "I spent the night at Hunter's last night."

Carly's eyes widen, and she nearly loses it, laughing so hard she has to hold on to the wall for support. "Oh, Frankie, this is too good! You dirty dog!"

I shake my head, unable to keep the smile off my face. "I'll tell you more later. Gotta run upstairs."

"Oh, yes you will, Missy," Carly says, still chuckling. Her expression softens, and she glances toward the ICU doors. "My heart is literally in shreds about Grace—she had a pretty severe heart attack, but they got her stabilized. She's in the ICU now, resting. She's a tough old bird. If anyone can pull through this, it's that little woman in there. But, damn, seeing her like that gets you right in the gut."

I nod, feeling a mixture of relief and concern. I know how close she and Carly are. "I'm glad she's okay, now. Thank God it happened here. It sounds like it was touch and go for a bit according to Hunter."

"Yeah, it was," Carly agrees, her tone more serious now. "But she's in excellent hands, and everyone's pulling for her. Hunter jumped in, once again, like a hero. I'm starting to see him in a new light."

"Good," I say, prideful at hearing her say that. "I'll check in on y'all later."

Carly nods, then gives me a sly grin. "But first, you better get ready to spill all the details about Hunter. I'm not letting you off the hook, you know, just because we have a personal medical emergency down here."

I laugh, shaking my head. "Wouldn't dream of it. I've got to meet with Theo first."

11:59 am

After our meeting wraps up, I gather my things and head out of the hospital. The weight of the day's events presses on me, but there's also a sense of accomplishment. I need to get back to my joggers and my home office. I can't imagine why I would be so exhausted.

The meeting went well, and we're moving forward with the trial. Still, there's a lot to do, and I know I'll need to buckle down and get some work done as soon as I get home.

As I step out into the warm sunlight, I remember I told Bill, er, my dad, that I would reach out later in the week. I pull out my phone and scroll through my recent calls until I find his number. I hit the call button and hold the phone to my ear, listening to the ring as I make my way to the parking garage.

I notice the dread and anxiousness aren't there when I make the call like they have been in the past. It's a nice but subtle change.

It takes a few rings, but eventually, he picks up.

"Hello?"

"Hey, it's me," I say, trying to keep my tone light. "I was just checking in, seeing how you're doing."

"I'm doing good. Feeling pretty good, actually. How is your project going?"

"Busy," I admit with a small laugh as I slide into the driver's seat. "We had a big meeting today about the trial I'm working on, so there's a lot to do. But, you know, it's good. Just trying to keep up with everything."

"I bet," he says, a note of pride in his voice. "You're a hard worker. Just like your mom."

The mention of my mom sends a pang through my chest, but I push it aside. Part of me wants to tell him he doesn't have the right to bring her up. But I know he means well and is giving me a compliment, so I leave it at that.

"Yeah, well, I guess I got that from her. Listen, I was thinking. I've got a lot of work to do this afternoon, but I'm probably going to need a break later. Do you want to meet for coffee? Maybe around four?"

"Yeah, I'd like that. Coffee sounds wonderful. Where do you want to meet?"

I think for a moment, then suggest the café that's not too far from my place, making it more convenient for me. "How about the same place as last time? Frothy Monkey. It's close to where I live, and they've got great coffee."

"Frothy Monkey is perfect," he agrees, and I can hear the relief in his voice. "I'll see you there at four."

"Great," I say, a sense of accomplishment and, dare I say, excitement. "I'll see you then, Dad." It's starting to get easier, letting myself think of him as my dad.

"Looking forward to it, Frankie," he says softly before we hang up.

As I end the call, I take a deep breath, a mix of emotions swirling inside me. It's still hard to believe that I'm making plans with my dad. Everything outside of my comfort level seems to be coming at me at once, and it is giving me a little extra pep in my step.

Frankie's House

7:11 pm

I'm wrapping up my work for the day when my phone buzzes on the desk beside me. I pick it up and see a text from Carly. Just like clockwork. I swear, I could know what time it is when she has a shift based on her calls, texts and stopovers.

Finishing up my shift. Is it cool if I stop by? I can grab takeout on the way.

I smile at her offer and quickly type out a reply.

Absolutely. Takeout sounds perfect. How about Thai tonight?

Done. See you in a bit!

With that settled, I close my laptop and start tidying up, grateful for the break. It's been a long day, and the idea of a quiet evening with Carly sounds like just what I need. I'm looking forward to catching up with her, especially after everything that's happened in the last 24 hours.

"Delivery for the lady of the house!" Carly announces herself as she lets herself inside.

I laugh, walking to the door to greet her. She walks in with bags of food and her usual bright smile. "You're the best," I say, taking one of the bags from her.

"I know," she grins, stepping inside. "And you better believe I'm here for all the details from last night. Deets, girl."

We move into the kitchen, setting the food down on the counter. I grab some plates and utensils, and we start dishing out the food, the aroma of Thai spices filling the air. Carly's eyes are practically sparkling with curiosity. Usually, it's me living vicariously through her, but I think the roles have reversed lately.

"So," she starts, leaning against the counter with her arms crossed, "I left your place after eight last night—how did you end up in his bed this morning?"

A blush climbs up my neck as I think about last night, the events still fresh in my mind. "Well," I begin, trying to sound casual, "I took some of your unintended advice and texted him to see if he wanted to go for a walk last night after you left. He invited me over for steak, instead."

Carly raises an eyebrow. "Um, you ate dinner with me. Did you eat twice?"

"A girl can never have too much protein. Especially when she's doing all of this working out she isn't used to." I waggle my eyebrows with this last part, hoping the salaciousness of the suggestion is enough to satisfy her hunger for the juice.

Her eyes widen, and she lets out a low whistle. "And then you two had a slumber party after?"

I nod, my cheeks flushing again. "Yeah, something like that."

Carly's grin turns mischievous. "I will say you have a glow about you. And I saw how he looked at you at the hospital. I've never seen him look at another woman like that before. And he's had plenty of admirers."

"Anyway," I say, changing the subject, "have you heard any more about Grace?"

Carly shakes her head, her expression turning serious. "Not much new. She's stable, but they're keeping a close eye on her. It's still touch and go, but she's got the best team on her side. She's our rock, even when she's down."

"That's good to hear," I say, relieved that she's holding on. "I hope she pulls through. I know how much she means to all of you."

"She will," Carly says with confidence. "Big Mama isn't going down without a fight."

We fall into a comfortable silence for a few moments, eating and reflecting on everything that's been going on. Even though Carly doesn't ask, I find myself wanting to share something else with her.

"I had coffee with my dad today," I say, almost casually.

Carly's head snaps up, surprise written all over her face. "Really? How'd that go?"

"It was… good, actually," I admit, surprised at how true that statement is. "We've been talking more since we reconnected, and today was the first time we really sat down and just… talked. I'm not saying everything's perfect, but it's a start. He's trying, and I'm trying to give him a chance."

Carly nods, a supportive smile on her face. "I'm glad to hear that, Frankie. I know it's not easy, but it sounds like you're doing the right thing. It's never too late to try and make things better."

"Yeah," I say, a weight lifting off my shoulders. "I think so, too. It's interesting how sickness and thoughts of leaving this earth can soften the heart. Now that he's doing better it was a catalyst, but gratefully we don't have to deal with the sadness of it. It's given us a second chance."

We spend the rest of the evening chatting about lighter topics, the comfort of our friendship a welcome balm to the full day. As Carly heads out later, I am extra grateful for the people in my life—the ones who've always been there and the ones who are starting to be.