The Doctor and Mr. Right

The two picked up their food, then scanned the room, obviously looking for a place to sit. When Michelle’s gaze fell on him, Gabe motioned to her.

Adrianna’s smile appeared frozen on her lips.

“They can’t sit with us,” she hissed, her smile never wavering.

“They can until our other committee members arrive.” Even though he understood Adrianna’s reluctance, he couldn’t let friends wander around searching for a place to sit when they had spots open at their table.

As they wove their way through the tables, Gabe noted that Michelle’s sleeveless navy dress made her look completely professional, giving little hint of the curves beneath the fabric. Tripp wore a suit and, unlike the other night, he’d kept the jacket on this time.

“What a surprise.” Michelle glanced from him to Adrianna. “I didn’t realize you two even knew each other.”

“You introduced us at the After-Hours event,” Gabe reminded her.

“Gabe and I are going to be working on the veterans memorial garden project for the chamber of commerce,” Adrianna said quickly, her gaze darting between Tripp and Michelle.

“Just the two of you?” Tripp cocked his head. “Big committee.”

“There’s supposed to be at least four of us.” Adrianna shifted in her seat. “But David didn’t give us their names.”

“And they haven’t showed.” Gabe rose to his feet and pulled out a chair for Michelle. “Please join us.”

“Yes,” Adrianna echoed, her cheeks slightly flushed. “Please do.”

“Because you asked so nicely—” Tripp’s smile was directed at her alone “—how can I refuse?”

Adrianna’s color deepened.

“Your other committee members may simply be running late.” Michelle placed her tray on the table and sat down. “If they show up, Tripp and I will find another spot to sit.”

“Speak for yourself.” Tripp plopped into the chair next to Adrianna. “I like where I’m sitting.”

“Tell us about the veterans memorial garden project.” Michelle stabbed a forkful of dill potato salad but kept her gaze focused on Gabe. “Sounds interesting.”

“You and Tripp should join the committee, Michi,” Adrianna surprised Gabe by offering, the words tumbling from her pouty lips. “We could muddle through this together.”

“Muddle?” Tripp’s eyes took on a devilish gleam. “Sounds like my kind of project.”

“We’re not sure what it involves,” Gabe admitted. “But it’s a worthy cause.”

“It should be fun.” Adrianna’s gaze shifted to Michelle. “Especially for us, because we both like gardens.”

“I’m interested.” Tripp dipped his spoon into his bowl of soup. “My father is a Vietnam veteran. I know that having a memorial garden to honor veterans of all the eras would please him. I only hope he’ll be around to see its completion.”

“How is your dad doing?” Adrianna placed her hand lightly on Tripp’s forearm.

“Okay.” The look of pain in Tripp’s eyes said otherwise.

“If there’s ever anything I can do—” Adrianna began.

Tripp smiled his thanks, then shifted his attention to Gabe. “I’ll let David know when I see him at the hospital that Michelle and I are interested in serving on the committee.”

“Good.” Gabe slanted a sideways glance at Michelle. “What brings the two of you to Hill of Beans today?”

Michelle smiled as if she found his question amusing. “Isn’t it obvious? We came for lunch. After we eat, I’m going to do some quick shopping before heading back to the clinic.”

“Do you have a special occasion that you’re shopping for?” Adrianna dipped her fork into the salad dressing and cocked her head.

“A dress for Travis and Mary Karen’s party on Saturday,” Michelle told her. “I’m sure I have something that would work, but I’m in the mood for a new outfit.”

Gabe took a sip of cola. “Joel told me the party is an annual event and lots of fun.”

“It’s one of the social events of the summer,” Michelle confirmed. “I wouldn’t miss it.”

Tripp nodded. “I’ll be there.”

Gabe’s settled his gaze on Adrianna, who sat quietly sipping her tea. “What about you?”

“No invitation.” Adrianna spoke in a matter-of-fact tone, her eyes giving nothing away.

Michelle reached across the table and covered her friend’s hand with hers. “That had to be an oversight. I’ll talk to Mary Karen and—”

“Please don’t.” Bright patches of pink dotted Adrianna’s cheeks. “It’s not a big deal.”

“Go with me.” Tripp met her gaze. “As my plus one.”

Adrianna shook her head and politely demurred.

“We could all go together.” Michelle glanced around the table. “It’ll be fun. C’mon, Anna. Say you’ll do it.”

Still the midwife hesitated until Tripp clasped her hand in his. “Please say you’ll come. It won’t be the same without you.”

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