Page 29 of Love's Home Run

And his kisses deepened.

She thought how wonderful it felt to be in his arms when he suddenly sat up.

“I’m sorry, Melissa. I’d better go. I just remembered I have an early appointment tomorrow, and I didn’t realize how late it was.”

Caught off guard, Melissa got to her feet and straightened her clothes. Uncertain about what was happening, she said politely, “I’ll walk you out.”

At the front door, he gave her a quick kiss on the cheek. “Thanks. See you soon.”

Melissa closed the door and leaned against it, breathing hard as disappointment pounded through her, and her emotions took a nosedive. Dirk had left so abruptly. Had she done something wrong?

###

The next morning, Ross called to tell her he’d be home that afternoon. “Thought I’d better warn you because they let me leave when I promised I’d have help at home and getting to the sports rehab center. I hope that doesn’t put you in an awkward situation.”

“Of course not. It makes me feel useful to be needed,” Melissa said. “I’ve restocked the refrigerator, and the house is straightened, ready for you.”

“Melissa, you didn’t have to do that,” said Ross.

“That’s what neighbors do,” she responded.

“Thanks. I’m grateful you live next door. I’ll see you later.”

“You will,” she said, content to have an excuse not to worry about Dirk.

Filled with purpose, Melissa made a couple of her quick and easy dishes to take over to Ross’s house. He could use or freeze them for when Crystal couldn’t provide a meal.

As she worked in the kitchen, she thought about her friendship with Ross. It was so natural. Maybe because there was no pretense between them, they both knew where they stood. That’s the same openness she’d hoped to develop with Dirk, with the idea of moving forward together. They seemed such a perfect match … at least on paper.

###

Melissa was placing the last of her casseroles in Ross’s refrigerator when she heard a car pull into his driveway. She went outside to greet them.

Mike ran around the back of his car and opened the door for Ross. He helped Ross to his feet, and they turned to face Melissa.

“Welcome home,” she said, coming over to them. “I’ve put a blanket and pillows on the couch in the living room if you want to rest there. And I’ve got casseroles in the refrigerator. Come inside, and we’ll get you settled.”

“Thank you. Seems as if you’ve got it all set,” said Ross, struggling to get upright.

Mike handed him the portable walker, and Ross used it to balance himself until he got a little steadier.

Observing him, Melissa smiled. Ross seemed to be showing off. Mike caught her eye and winked at her.

Inside, Ross and Mike made their way to the couch.

As Ross sat down, Melissa hurried to put pillows behind him.

Ross looked up at her and smiled. “Ah, that feels good. Thanks, neighbor.”

She felt her cheeks flush but tried to ignore it. “You’re welcome. Do you want me to put a chicken casserole in the oven for you? Crystal will bring you a meal later on.”

“I’m ready. How about you, Ross?” said Mike.

“Sure. Hospital food isn’t at all the same as something of yours.”

Melissa saw that Ross was tired and turned to Mike. “I’ll set the timer for the casserole, and when the buzzer rings, you can serve it. It’s made fresh, so it shouldn’t take longer than thirty minutes. In the meantime, I have lemonade, water, and some sodas in the refrigerator. I also made cookies that are ready to eat anytime.”

Mike placed a hand on her shoulder. “Thanks. I’m ready to move into the neighborhood, so you’ll be this nice to me.”

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