Page 18 of Love's Home Run

“Yes. She said I was welcome for as long as I wanted. Both Nettie and Jason are working at the restaurant now. Depending on how long I’m here, I may return home for more clothes if necessary. I’ll let you know about work as soon as I can.”

“No worries. That’s why we have Geoffrey and you acting as chefs. The time will come, I hope, when you work less and less after you marry and start a family of your own.”

“Mom,” Melissa groaned. “Don’t go there.”

“I know, darling. I’m sorry. I just can’t help wondering when that’s going to happen.”

“I’ve got to go now. Thanks for your help.” Melissa ended the call and emitted a long sigh. She knew her mother wanted the best for her, but talk like that always made her feel like a failure.

CHAPTER SEVEN

After eating part of her pasta and shrimp dish with a lemony sauce and Caesar salad, Melissa stored the remainder in the refrigerator. She’d eat the cannoli later after visiting Ross. She’d need a sweet treat by then. It had been an emotional day.

She got her things settled in the den and, knowing how it worked, pulled out the couch to make it into a bed. Then, she added sheets and a blanket so it would be ready for her without bothering Nettie to help. It was the least she could do for a last-minute stay.

Glancing around to make sure she wasn’t being too intrusive, Melissa picked up her purse and headed to the parking garage to get her car. She’d paid an overnight fee so she could come and go.

Walking along the street, she was amused when an apartment window opened, and a woman stuck her head out and hollered, “Anthony! Time to come home.” Down the block, she could see a group of boys on skateboards. Anthony, no doubt, was one of them.

###

When she walked into Ross’s room, he looked up and smiled, sending heat through her. She told herself her reaction was merely because he was more alert.

“I’m happy to see you more aware. How are you doing?” she asked, standing by him. His injured knee was supported by a series of pillows on either side, helping to keep his leg straight and immobile.

His lips curved again, and she was reminded of seeing him on television with the same crooked smile. He really was adorable.

“Is there anything I can do to help you? Does your family know about this?” she asked.

“No, they don’t know, and I don’t want to bother them. I’ll call when the surgery is complete, and we have all the facts.”

“Dr. Rusko said they’d be doing a lot of tests. Have you had any?”

“I’m scheduled for an MRI later this evening. They have my records from New York to do some comparisons.”

“Have they helped with your pain?” she asked Ross.

“I’m feeling foggy, but the pain is something I can handle. Have a seat. I like your company.”

She pulled a chair closer and sat down. “I intend to do everything I can to help you. There’s no need to get a nurse. Once you’re home, I’ll see you have meals and everything you need.”

“Aw, thanks. I know why you’re saying that, but you don’t have to do this. The accident was just that, an accident. I can hire someone to come in and help.”

“No, I wouldn’t feel right about that,” said Melissa. “You’ve promised to be my friend, and I’ll reciprocate. Subject closed.”

He grinned. “I like it when you go all tough woman.”

She chuckled. “I mean what I say.”

“I like that too,” he said. “Okay, deal. You come to my house to help following surgery and give up the idea of feeling guilty about the accident.”

“Deal,” she quickly said, eager to resolve the issue. “Now, have you had anything to eat?”

He shrugged. “They don’t want me to have more than liquids because they’ll operate as soon as they’re ready. I suspect first thing in the morning.”

“Okay. What are some of your favorite foods? I can bring some to you after the surgery, and then when you get home, I’ll take care of it.”

“Thanks,” Ross said, studying her. “You are a nice person, Melissa. I’m glad we’re friends.”

---