Page 11 of Love's Cure

“We all have stuff we need to deal with,” he said. “I’m glad to help you with yours. That’s why I like the idea of a family practice. It’s a chance to help entire families because when one is in trouble, they all are. Of course, I’m talking mostly about health problems.”

“And mostly about other people. Right?”

He shrugged. “I guess.” He took a last bite of his sandwich. “I met with Dani, Brad, and Aaron at Collister Construction. I gave them the go-ahead to start with the renovation. Dr. Johnson has been delayed in getting back here, but I told him we can do most of the training online, and since Lucille is the one who handles all the office procedures, I’m covered there.”

“I’m happy that he and Martha can retire. He’s wanted to for a long time but felt he couldn’t leave until he was replaced. He’s that kind of person.”

“I hope I can be as well-respected as he is,” said Emmett honestly.

Crystal studied him. “I think you will be. Thanks for the break. I must get back to the Café.”

He stood as she got to her feet. “Thanks for the sandwich and the special delivery. I’ll see you tonight at seven. I’ll pick you up at your place, and we can walk down the street to the restaurant.”

“It sounds wonderful. After cooking most days, it’s a treat not to have to worry about it.” She left him and hurried back to her car aware his gaze was on her.

CHAPTER FIVE

That evening, Crystallooked at herself critically in the mirror. Emmett thought she was beautiful. Was it a line he used on all women he wanted to get to know? An image of her younger self appeared, and she closed her eyes at the sight of the scrawny, unkempt child she once was. She colored her hair purple to remind herself that she was different now—a successful young woman with a business of her own. And talented too. Not as good an actress as Whitney, of course, but she could perform some lesser singing roles with ease, a total break from her normal routine.

Life is complicated, she thought, putting a last swipe of mascara on her long lashes. Their darkness highlighted the unusual color of her eyes, slightly more purple than dark blue in certain sunlight. Funny, that both she and Emmett had unusual eyes. She wondered if he was able to see hers clearly. She’d read that in addition to difficulty with red and green hues, a person who is colorblind might have trouble with the color blue.

Her doorbell rang, and as she went to answer it, a shiver went through her. Behind the offer of dinner and her acceptance was a chance for her to move forward, if not to love, to a meaningful friendship. He, unlike others in town, wouldn’t remember her as she was growing up. He’d only see her for what she’d become.

She opened the door and noticed his hair was still a little damp from a recent shower. He’d put on a fresh golf shirt and now wore khaki pants instead of the jeans he’d worn earlier.

“Wow!” He grinned at her. “You look nice.”

“Thanks.” She couldn’t help blushing as she nervously brushed a speck of dust from the skirt of her sundress. She was used to wearing jeans or shorts and a T-shirt at work. The way he was looking at her made her realize it was worth it occasionally to dress up in something a little more feminine. She’d even worn dressy drop earrings instead of her usual silver hoops.

“It’s nice that we can simply walk to the restaurant,” he said as they emerged onto the street. He took her arm. “It’s a little bit like New York, where neighborhoods have all kinds of conveniences close by.”

“Did you always live in New York City?” she asked.

“Most of the time,” he answered. “Right now, I don’t even want to think about anything but getting comfortable here in town. I’ve met a lot of nice people.”

“Like every other small town, there are some easier to like than others, but Lilac Lake is full of great people. We tend to attract people who want to enjoy a simple life. You must admit, the town and surrounding areas are gorgeous.”

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