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Lou bit back a grin “You probably have women sprawled across your lap all the time” Why did she say that?

He grinned at her “Actually, my lap is usually too busy to have anyone sprawled across it” His eyes cut in her direction as they narrowed “I stay pretty busy at the hospital”

“When do you have to go back ho it would be better to change the subject

“I’ to take a short leave of absence I have auntil so happens with ht?” He put on his best doctor’s face despite the fear that ut

“I understand” Tears filled her eyes, yet refused to spill “Is there any chance she can come home?”

“Maybe It’s so we have to discuss with the doctors We have to let her come out of the ICU before they’ll even consider it”

“I can help take care of her when she does co his eyebrows

Brody’s eyes met Lou’s “That’s what you do, isn’t it? You take care of people?” His voice softened “Does anyone ever take care of you, Lou?”

“I don’t need-”

Brody cut her off “We all need to be taken care of, Lou… Even you” He reached across the seat and took her hand gently in his Her next coh the openHis strong hand enveloped hers and held it gently between the with me today, Lou You made the hours seem bearable”

“You’re welcome I wouldn’t have had it any other way” The sentiain with a loud growl She rerief,” she mumbled

He chuckled lightly “Feel like some ice cream?” he asked as they passed the Dairy Barn

“I always feel like ice crea across her lips “Sarah convinces Sadie and Jeb to hook up the hay wagon all the time, and we all pile in the back and come here for ice cream She would be jealous if she knehere we are”

Brody circled the building and pulled into a parking space “We’ll bring her next ti his door

They walked up to the counter together Lou ordered a scoop of chocolate and a scoop of sherbet on the saht you had an adventurous spirit,” she commented playfully