Page 88 of Her Only Hero

“From these cases, it sounds like you would have handled these patients differently.”

“Hematological disorders aren’t my area of expertise. Technology has certainly changed since I was in medical school, but yes, I would have used the safest and least invasive methods that have the highest success rates. For example, if someone had a headache, I’d prescribe acetaminophen, not a lobotomy.”

“That sounds drastic,” I said.

“Okay, I exaggerated a bit, but not by much, actually. Crawford certainly utilizes the newest pharmacological concoctions.”

“Wouldn’t you?”

“Yes, but only when all else fails.”

“That poor man went through twelve rounds of treatment—his hopes dashed after every round. I can’t even imagine what he went through.”

“I think you just did,” Aram said softly. “You’re kind, June. Empathetic. And beautiful.”

My cheeks grew warm.

“I’m sorry. I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable.”

I tensed up and became angry at his apparent kindness, caring, and affection. “Aram, what are you doing? Are you toying with me?”

“No, I would never toy with you.”

“Then what are you doing?”

“June, I don’t know how serious you are with the officer, but I can’t go another day without telling you how I feel.”

I froze.

“When we were together, I should have followed my heart instead of my head. After you were gone, my life wasn’t the same. I missed you, and I still do.”

He had missed me? His soft voice sounded sincere and tugged at my insides. I believed him. I’d always believed and trusted him. “I missed you, too. For so long I had hoped you’d come back.”

“It appears fate has brought us together once again,” he said.

I nodded. Indeed, fate always had a way of intervening in the most unpredictable ways. Here Aram was, in my life again.

Aram. He had captivated my mind and could always make me laugh. At one time, he had been the center of my world, and could be again.

Black eyebrows and lashes anchored his vibrant, hopeful eyes. His attention intoxicated me. I had craved his love for so long, and now having him profess he still wanted me overwhelmed my senses. My legs became weak.

“What are you thinking?” He smoothed a strand of hair from my cheek. “It’s like nothing has changed, isn’t it?”

“Yes,” I whispered. “I could fall in love with you again. But, Aram, you’re wrong. Something had changed. You left me, and that changed everything.”

His head dropped.

I realized this was the final closure I needed. I realized now, after spending time with Aram, any possibility of a future together had been severed. I had to unearth my buried feelings in order to let them go. I’d always care for Aram, but my heart and future had become someone else’s.

“There is no one else like June Harber,” he said.

“And there is no one else like Aram Hamid,” I said softly and meant it.

“Thank you.” His eyes glistened. “Please excuse me for a moment.”

I shifted on the sofa, at peace with my decision. I looked at my phone for the first time. It was after ten p.m. Patrick had texted and had called, too. But my phone hadn’t rung, or I hadn’t noticed it vibrating. I listened to the message.

“Hey, June. They completed the search of the house. You’re free to come over. Call me.”

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