Page 45 of Meet Me at the Christmas Cottage
“Nope.” Bronte held up her free hand. “It wasn’t anyone’s fault. I’m pretty sure that’s Mr. Webster’s definition ofaccident.”
“I just don’t like to see”—he almost saidpeople I care aboutbut was worried it would freak Bronte out, so instead changed it to—“you hurt.”
“It’s nothing that ice, pain meds, and rest won’t cure. I’m fine. I promise. A little bummed we missed the announcement of the snowman winners, but fine.”
“Jordi said we won.”
“We did?” Bronte’s eyebrows rose before she yanked them down in a frown, which also seemed to cause her pain, because she let her face go as neutral as possible.
“Easy there, tiger.” Jonah reached over and squeezed her shoulder. “We won for most creative.”
“Yes.” Bronte punched the air but didn’t show any emotion on her face. Jonah wanted to laugh at the concentration she was using to keep her face straight, but he didn’t feel like getting punched.
“Here you are.” Nova reappeared holding a small plastic cup with a couple pills inside. She handed it to Bronte with a bottle of water. Confirming that Bronte took the pills, the small woman picked up a clipboard and started writing notes before turning to Jonah. “How’s Army life treating you? I heard you’re stationed in Germany?” Her dark-brown eyes stayed focused on the chart in front of her.
Jonah stiffened. “That’s right. It’s no Jonathon Island, but it’ll do for now.”
Nova smiled. “Well, I’m keeping the clinic warm until you come back. I think your dad said you’d be up for retirement early next year?” She glanced up from her chart and frowned. “You know, if you decided you didn’t want to take over the clinic, I could probably work something out with your father about staying more long-term.”
Jonah’s mouth went dry. Why would she assume he didn’t want to take over the clinic? Had someone overheard his confession to Bronte and already spread rumors around? He should never have opened his mouth. “What makes you think I wouldn’t want to take over the clinic?”
Nova held her hands up. “I’m just saying, if you decided you weren’t ready to retire yet, I wouldn’t mind staying on a little longer. I think the island is growing on me.”
Jonah winced. “Sorry, that came out a little harsh. Thank you for offering.”
Dr. Nova clicked her pen closed and ripped something from the pad on her clipboard. “No worries. I didn’t mean to sound like I was taking over your turf.” She held the piece of paper to Bronte. “You should be good with ibuprofen for the pain, but if you need anything, here’s my cell number, you can call me at any time. If you start feeling dizzy or anything is off with your vision, you tell Jonah first thing, okay? But other than that, get lots of rest, and let that bump heal.”
“I will,” Bronte said with a slight nod. “Can I still stay to watch the Christmas tree lighting?”
Nova looked back and forth between him and Bronte. “I don’t see why you couldn’t, if you’re feeling up for it, but stay away from ice, and be careful not to hit your head again.”
“You don’t have to tell me twice,” Bronte said, rising from the chair. She paused once she’d straightened, and Jonah stepped forward to help if she needed it.
“You guys have fun,” Nova said, hugging the clipboard to her chest. “They did a community-only lighting at the beginning of the month, and let me tell you, it is magical.”
Saying her goodbyes, Nova slipped out of the room.
“I’m not sure I’ll be able to put this back on.” Bronte held up her beanie.
“Here, let me help.” He took the hat from her and set it toward the back of her head, tugging it over her ears. It took everything in him not to pull her to him and bury his nose in her hair. Being this close to her, her coconut–lavender scent almost overwhelmed him. “There. How’s that feel?”
“It feels like I’m framing the evidence of my klutziness.” Bronte sighed. “But I’d rather that than you having to amputate my ears later because they freeze off my head.”
Jonah smiled. It wasn’t as bad as she thought. The way her hat sat on her head, her hair fell forward, mostly covering the large knot. “I promise it’s not that bad. Are you still up for going to see the snow globes, or would you rather grab something to eat at Martha’s?”
“I can’t say I’m all that hungry anymore, but sitting at Martha’s for a little bit sounds like a good plan.”
“Well, then.” Jonah offered his arm to Bronte. “Let’s go, shall we?”
Bronte took his arm, and they made their way out of one of the offices-turned-exam room.
Nova stood at the front of the Tourism Bureau, handing a kid a piece of candy. She lifted her hand and waved. Jonah waved back. As he and Bronte pushed out into the frigid air to make their way to Martha’s, he couldn’t help but think about what Nova had said about staying on Jonathon Island longer. She thought he’d want to take up her offer because he wanted to stay in the Army longer, but would she want to stay if he didn’t plan to take over at all? It didn’t solve Amy’s concern over their dad’s disappointment, but maybe knowing another trusted doctor would be taking over would help ease the disappointment.
Jonah didn’t know, but something inside felt a little better knowing that at least Dr. Nova Lake seemed to be on his side.
ChapterTen
After donning their coats, Jonah tucked Bronte under his arm and led them out of the Tourism Bureau. He vowed to keep an eye on Bronte the rest of the afternoon. If she showed any signs of being exhausted or in too much pain, he’d march them back home. No matter how much they both wanted to see the Christmas tree lighting.
