Free Tethered (A BirthRight Novel) by Brandi Leigh Hall Page B

Especially one they barely know. But Hunter sounds like he genuinely wants to know. Not like one of those people who merely pretend to be interested for the sake of being polite—while deep down they’re really hoping you zip it and walk away.
    But I wouldn’t know where to start, even if I could talk about it. “Thanks Hunter, but I’d rather not think about it anymore, if you don’t mind.” I cross my legs, hoping he doesn’t press the issue.
    “Well, let me know if you change your mind.” A smile lights up his entire face, melting my heart on the spot.
    But wait a minute. He’s at the hospital again ? Two days in a row? “So what brings you back to North Shore? A sick family member? Wife? Girlfriend? Boyfriend ? Or perhaps therapy?” I wink. Sometimes I crack myself up, but it’s a good way to find out the basics.
    His laugh is so infectious I can’t help but giggle right along with him.
    “None of the above, actually. My work keeps me safe from most relationships.” He shrugs.
    “Your work?” Okay, stud, dish.
    “Ah...yes, my work. I’m...a fireman with the FDNY. Most women don’t want to fall for someone with such a dangerous job. Not that I can blame them.” He shrugs again, this time with a hint of regret.
    “That’s too bad.” My disingenuous tone has him eyeing me. Whoops. It’s worth it though. At least now I know he’s single and brave.
    “Soooooo, to answer your question, I’m visiting a buddy who’d fallen on the job a few days ago. He’s in pretty bad shape. Head trauma.” Hunter purses his lips, looking towards the ground with his pained face blanketed in worry.
    “Oh my god, that’s terrible . I’m really sorry, Hunter.” I place my hand on his knee.
    “Thanks.”
    His pain wrenches my heart. What can I say to that?
    I sift through my mind for the right words, and then it hits me. Duh! “So that’s why you were talking to Dr. Gaslightwala yesterday.”
    “It is....” He eyes me curiously. “Why, were you afraid I was stalking you or something?” Once the words roll off his tongue, a snicker bursts from his lips.
    My face heats up. “Of course not! It just occurred to me after you left yesterday I had no idea why you were here...when you knew why I was. So now I know.”
    “Now you know.” Mischief spreads across his face, his eyebrows lifting with his crooked smile. “So, if you see me back here a lot over the next few days, you won’t go thinking I decided to stalk you after all, will you? Because if we’re here—on the same floor—seeing the same doctor—we’re bound to run into each other from time to time. I wouldn’t want you worrying for your safety or anything, so I figured I’d put your mind at ease before it has a chance to run away with itself again.” He laughs almost under his breath.
    Seriously? Oh, he’s clearly enjoying this. But I’ll play along. Why not? “Your consideration is touching.” I lift my hand to my heart. “But if you should happen to change your mind about stalking me, please just give me a heads up first. I’d be more than happy to provide you with my itinerary. I know how daunting your schedule must be, so I wouldn’t want to subject you to any difficulties which might further endanger your well-being.” I tilt my head, batting my baby blues for affect. “If you like, I could even leave a ladder outside my window...or binoculars in the tree across the street. You know...just in case.” Feeling just a tad cocky from my rebuttal, I return the same sideways smirk he’s now giving me.
    “You see, I knew you were a good woman from the first moment I laid eyes on you. Most aren’t willing to be so accommodating.”
    “Well, the way I see it...you risk your life to protect strangers every day. It’s merely my civic duty to repay your kindness. I’m nothing if not old-fashioned.” I re-cross my legs, trying not to seem too confident.
    He leans forward, elbows resting on his knees. “Well in that case, I promise to