Page 3 of Healing Daddy

The genuine smile that exploded across JJ’s lips took his breath away. Even though Leary was a good ninety-nine percent certain that JJ only wanted to be friends, Leary still liked the way he felt when JJ was around. Still, Leary made a vow. He would not end up disappointed. No matter what happened with JJ down the road, Leary would take these memories and feel nothingbut nostalgic happiness for the time JJ shared with him. His attention was enough.

Chapter Two

Ithadbeensurprisinglyeasy to get an appointment at Leary’s office once he had given his name. JJ had expected to have to wait months. The waiting room looked like any other. White walls and digital posters made the place feel sterile. A small TV played a cooking show, and everyone fixated on it like it was their lifeline. JJ stared at the floor. His mind raced. Since Leary had made this offer, JJ hadn’t stopped thinking about it or him. Technically, he always thought about Leary, but this appointment had consumed him. He had spent hours online researching bionic hands. It seemed he would likely have to undergo surgery to prepare his arm. The prices were astronomical, but JJ could handle it. He had talked to the head of security, Henry, about possibly needing time off for this. Henry had asked for all the bills to be sent to Beau, and he would cover it. Working for Beau was big money. JJ could do it on his own. Still, he appreciated the fact that since the loss of his hand had been work-related, he wouldn’t have to pay.

“JJ.”

When his name was called, JJ shot to his feet. He returned the nurse’s smile.

“How are you today?”

JJ wasn’t sure how to answer that, so he lied. “I’m good. How are you?”

“I’m fine. I appreciate you asking. We’re going right in here in room four.”

A man in a white coat looked his way and then did a double take. JJ stepped into the room and ignored him.

“Just take a seat in that chair and we’ll get your blood pressure.” She stepped out and grabbed a rolling vital signs machine.

JJ glanced at the badge she wore as she came back into the room. Katelyn. He made a mental note to try to remember that. JJ would likely be here a lot from what he’d read.

Before Katelyn could close the door, the guy in the white coat burst in. He was all slimy smiles. The guy grabbed his paperwork. “Hey there. I’m Dr. Highman.”

Oh, he definitely got made fun of in school for that name.

“What brings you in today?”

Katelyn looked every bit as confused as JJ felt.

“I’m here to see Dr. Justice.”

The doctor’s smile grew. “Oh, you don’t want him. I’m much better.”

JJ’s fury hit the roof at the statement.

With her back to the doctor, Katelyn rolled her eyes and started the blood pressure machine.

Leary stood behind Dr. Highman. He had gotten there just in time to hear the statement. His shoulders fell, and his gaze slid away.

“I’m here for Dr. Justice,” JJ repeated. This time, the deadliness in his tone couldn’t be missed.

Dr. Highman sighed. “If you change your mind and decide you’d like a competent doctor, you’re free to switch to me.” He turned and handed the papers to Leary, proving he had known Leary stood there the entire time.

The cuff released, and an alarm blared.

Leary shut the door in the douchebag’s face.

Katelyn’s eyes widened when she looked at the screen. “Whoa. I’ll let you calm down for a minute and take this again.”

He nodded toward her, but his eyes never left Leary. “That’s probably a good idea.”

Leary grabbed the rolling stool and moved to take the machine’s place when Katelyn got it out of the way.

Katelyn spoke before Leary could. “Please ignore Dr. Highman. His ego is a mile wide, but Dr. Justice is the best.”

Leary flashed her a smile. “Thanks, Katie.”

She winked.