two arteries that are eighty percent
blocked. I’ve consulted with our head cardiologist, and just to be on the safe
side, we feel it’s best to keep you overnight and schedule an angioplasty for
the morning.”
Patrick grimaced. “Not one of those again?”
With a chuckle, Dr. Nadeen replied, “Yes, I noticed
from your records you had the procedure before.”
“Unfortunately, yes.”
“You’re going to have to start taking better care of
yourself and maintaining a heart-healthy diet, so you won’t be back here
again.”
Aidan snorted. “Good luck with that one.”
Patrick chose to ignore him. “At least it’s not
something major like open heart surgery.”
Dr. Nadeen nodded. “I’m sure this news will make
your granddaughter feel better.”
Patrick’s brows furrowed. “My granddaughter?”
Dr. Nadeen ducked his head but not before Aidan
caught a faint smile on his face and gleam in his dark eyes. “Emma—the
beautiful redhead who almost passed out because she was so worried about you.”
“She almost fainted?” Aidan questioned at the same
time Patrick replied, “Aw, bless her heart, I sure hate that I upset her so
much.”
“It’s okay. I got her to lie down for a while, and I
got her little guy—I mean, her, something to eat.”
Aidan’s chest clenched not only at Dr. Nadeen’s
familiarity with Emma, but the mention of Noah. This dude was getting under his
skin and fast. Even though Aidan was a guy, he knew competition when he saw it.
It wasn’t just the fact that Dr. Nadeen had the looks that made women’s panties
ignite, but the fucker was kind and considerate. Throw in the fact he was a
doctor, and he was a triple threat.
Finally, Aidan found his voice. “That was very kind
of you. I appreciate you taking care of her,” he said, trying hard to speak
without gritting his teeth.
A warm smile spread across Dr. Nadeen’s face. “I was
happy to do it for her. Your sister is a kind young woman—her spirit shines from
within.”
Aidan’s mouth gaped open. What the hell? He thought
Emma was his… sister ? “Did you just say…?” Aidan sputtered.
Patrick shook his head. “Emma isn’t my
granddaughter, Doc.”
“Oh, my apologies. You have a very sweet daughter
then.”
“No, no, she isn’t even related to me.”
“Ah, I see. Well, you’re very fortunate to have
someone in your life who cares that much about you.”
Patrick glanced from Aidan to Dr. Nadeen. “Did I
hear you call her beautiful?”
Pesh’s expression turned apologetic. “I’m sorry. That
was entirely too forward of me.”
“It’s all right, Doc.” Rubbing his hands together,
Patrick said, “Hmm, I can’t help but play matchmaker while I’m laid up here.
Would you be interested in dating Emma? She’s single, you know.”
Aidan glared at his father, which only caused
Patrick to widen his grin. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” Aidan
hissed.
“Forcing your hand.” A mischievous gleam burned in
his eyes, and Aidan knew there was no stopping him. He didn’t know how after
everything Patrick had been through that day he could still find the energy to
goad his own son. He knew what a sore spot Emma was.
At the moment, she was more like a gaping hole in
his chest. “You better be damn glad you’re in the ER right now,” he muttered
under his breath.
Patrick ignored him and focused his attentions on
Pesh who was staring strangely at the two of them. “Whatcha say, Doc?”
“Uh, well, I don’t normally pick up women in the
emergency room, Mr. Fitzgerald,” Dr. Nadeen murmured, shifting uncomfortably on
his feet.
“Oh please. This isn’t picking up. It’s a fix-up .
That’s totally different,” Patrick argued.
“Pop,” Aidan growled.
With a hesitant smile, Dr. Nadeen said, “Maybe we’ll
get a chance to talk again.”
“She’s six months pregnant!” Aidan countered.
Dr. Nadeen jerked back like he had been slapped. He
cleared his throat before he spoke.