How Much I Feel - Marie Force Page 0,63

When people come to him, they’re usually having some sort of crisis, so he doesn’t get much time with them.”

“I really like him, and from what I can tell, you do, too.”

“I do. A lot.”

She offers a big silly grin. “Yeah?”

I nod.

“This is big news, prima.”

“I know. I’m trying not to totally lose my mind, because who knows where he’ll be in a month?”

“But the fact that you’re even into him is huge.”

“Yeah.”

She takes me by the hand and tows me into the break room, which seems much bigger with the lights and cameras gone. After closing the door, she turns to me. “You have no idea how much we’ve all wanted this, for you to meet someone who makes you glow the way you do around him.”

“I do not glow.”

“Yes, you do, and it’s awesome.”

“I’m trying not to overthink it.”

“Definitely don’t do that. Enjoy it. You deserve it. Imagine how hot it’ll be with him. I bet he knows what he’s doing in bed.”

“Maria! Stop.” The thought of being in bed with Jason makes the blood scorch my veins.

“Your face is bright red just thinking about it. Have you kissed him yet?”

“Maybe.”

“I love this so much.”

“Don’t make it into a big thing, Mari, please?” I place my hand on my stomach, which suddenly feels unsettled. “I just don’t know . . .”

She hugs me. “I understand why this is so difficult for you. I get that better than anyone. But I also know it’s time for you to try again. It’s been five years, C.”

“Believe me, I know.”

“You gotta let someone in there before it grows back.”

I sputter with laughter. “Shut up.”

“I’m serious! It can grow back.”

“It cannot. A medical professional shouldn’t lie about such things.”

“It’s a commonly known fact that the hymen regenerates just like the liver does.”

I shake my head and roll my eyes as I try not to howl with laughter that would only encourage her outrageousness. “Lies.”

“You also need to be concerned about dust and cobwebs. Nothing sexy about that.”

“I’m leaving now.”

“Hey.”

I turn back to her.

“All kidding aside, I’m happy for you. Regardless of what might or might not happen with your sexy doctor, it’s great to know that you can still feel that way for someone, you know?”

“Yeah, I do. It’s been fun.”

“It’s okay to let it happen with him. Tony wouldn’t want you to be alone forever. He loved you, and all he ever wanted was for you to be happy.”

The reminder of my sweet husband’s devotion brings tears to my eyes. “I know.”

“I’m here if you need to talk about it.”

“I know that, too.”

“Especially if you want to share the dirty details.”

“I’m out. See you tomorrow.”

“I bet the details will be extra dirty with him,” she calls after me.

CHAPTER 16

CARMEN

Laughing at Maria’s foolishness, I head out to the parking lot, the humidity like a slap to the face as I walk to Priscilla. “You’d better not get me arrested again,” I say to the car as I start her up. I drive slowly back to Jason’s hotel and breathe a sigh of relief when I park the car and turn it off. I debate whether to leave the keys at the front desk, but I don’t trust them not to take it for a ride, so I decide to keep them with me.

My phone chimes with a text from Jason. Heading into surgery. Will be 5-7 hrs. I’ll hit you up after to see if you’re still awake.

I want to ask him if Miami-Dade extended privileges. They must have if he’s operating there. What does this mean for his situation with the board? I’m dying to know, but he has more important things to focus on now. I reply with a thumbs-up.

I text Maria to confirm that the child’s mother signed the release form. When Maria confirms that she did, I send a text to Desiree, letting her know what happened. I’m not sure if it’ll impact the news story, but I figure it can’t hurt to tell her about it.

I head home in my car, my mind racing with questions and excitement to see him again. Now I just have to report in to Mr. Augustino on what transpired today and get through the next five to seven hours.

He texts at nine forty-five. Still up?

Yes.

Can I come by?

Please do. I have your keys.

That’s why I want to come by. For the keys. He adds the laughing emoji.

Do you need a ride?

Nah, I’m in an Uber. Be there soon. Can’t wait.

I bolt