Page 40 of Love's Cure

Conversation was lively as Crystal and her sister sipped their sodas and then ordered dinner. Crystal was wondering what Emmett was doing when he showed up and took a seat in a chair beside her.

“How was the rest of your day?” she asked him quietly.

“Busy, but good. I’m getting to know more people. I had time to stop in at The Woodlands and was able to spend a few minutes with GG. I’ll tell you about it later.”

Though she was curious about it, she tuned into the conversation between Mike and Misty. It turned out that they’d lived close to each other in Florida but had never met. She listened to Dirk talk about the rental property he’d found at one of the older lakeside estates. Once a carriage house, it was now a vacation rental that would become his residence until he found something more permanent.

“I like the property a lot, but, for now, it’s just a rental. We’ll see how I do in the dental practice with Uncle Bob and then I’ll decide what I want to do,” Dirk explained.

“It’s nice that you’re here. Everyone needs dental care at one time or another,” said Taylor.

“Thanks. I’m hoping it works out,” Dirk said.

Ross announced that he was going to start a sports program with Mike. “Mike will handle the tennis and I’ll take care of the baseball program. We’re talking about building an indoor tennis facility for year-round use.”

“We can use it for high school programs, individual classes, and as an exercise facility,” said Mike. “The people in this area are sports-minded, and this will give them the opportunity for a year-round facility.”

“What about your training center in Florida?” asked Brad.

“I like the idea of having four seasons and living here,” Mike said. “We were thinking of talking to Collister Construction to build what we want.”

Brad grinned. “Aaron and I would like that.”

“Speaking of Aaron ... where is he?” asked Taylor. “I was hoping to see him.”

“He’ll be along. We sold another house, and he wants to celebrate with us,” said Dani. “Here he is now.”

All eyes turned to the tall, dark-haired, handsome man strolling toward them. “Looks like a big group tonight. Glad to see it.” Aaron’s gaze rested on Misty. “You’re back for a while?”

Misty nodded at him. “Back to stay.”

“Good,” he said, returning Misty’s smile and then facing Diana with a questioning look.

Her eyelashes fluttering, Diana introduced herself to Aaron.

He nodded politely and spoke to Dirk and then Emmett before taking a seat next to Diana. “It’s great to see more people here.”

“I may stay here all summer,” said Diana smiling at him.

“Nice,” he said in a noncommittal way.

Sensing Diana’s frustration with Aaron’s lack of interest, Crystal couldn’t help but be amused. True to the teachings of his mother, appearances meant little to him.

Taylor caught Crystal’s eye and gave her a knowing wink.

As she and Misty were about to leave, Emmett said, “I’ll walk you out. I’ve got an early day tomorrow.”

Outside, Misty said, “If you don’t mind, I’ll go ahead. Thanks again, Dr. Chambers, er, Emmett, for taking care of me this morning.”

“I’m here to help anytime, Misty.”

After Misty walked away, Emmett turned to Crystal. “I’m happy to see Misty out and about. She’s very courageous.”

“I was pleased to see she wanted to face the world and not hide the abuse she’s suffered. It’s a very positive sign toward healing. In the past, we’ve talked to a psychologist about our family, and if I see a need for more visits, I’ll remind Misty of that option.”

Emmett studied her and then his expression softened and those unusual eyes of his, outlined with less bruising, seemed to flare with an even brighter turquoise. “I like you, Crystal. A lot.”

“I feel the same way about you but realistically, we both know I’m not what you’re looking for.”

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