“I’d love to.”
* * *
Noah’s nerves kept him up most of the night.
Since it was Friday, he had taken half a day off after doing some minor in-office surgeries. Now he and Callie were traveling to the assisted-living facility. He only prayed Thelma didn’t start rambling about the wedding.
“I should warn you that Thelma may flirt with me.”
Callie laughed. “Then she’s sharp if she’s flirting with a hot guy.”
Noah reached over, gripped her hand. “Just don’t get too jealous.”
Once they arrived at the facility, Noah led the way to Thelma’s room. As usual, the door was closed and locked. Noah knocked and waited.
Soon the door eased open and he reached over, gripping Callie’s hand. She squeezed back, silently supporting him.
When Thelma saw him, then looked beyond and saw Callie, her whole face lit up.
“Malinda! My Malinda!”
Thelma reached out, pulling Callie beyond Noah and into a full embrace.
A feeling of dread overwhelmed him. He hadn’t even thought that Thelma would mistake Callie for Malinda. Yes, the two had the same dark red hair, but he’d spent so much time with Callie lately he’d forgotten the similarities.
This was a bad, bad idea and nothing good would come from these next few minutes. He prayed to God again that Thelma didn’t mention the wedding.
“Come in, come in.” Thelma eased back. “I’m so glad you two are here.”
Noah followed the ladies into the sweltering room. Once again, he turned the heat down…way down. Because with his nerves, he was already sweating.
“I can’t believe my Malinda is finally here,” she gushed. “You’re such a beautiful sight, my dear.”
Callie glanced to Noah as if silently asking him to intervene.
“Thelma,” he began. “This—”
“Is such a surprise.” Thelma reached out for Callie’s hand and squeezed. “I’ve been waiting for you to come.” Thelma’s eyes narrowed on Callie’s face. “Darling, what happened?”
Callie’s eyes sought Noah’s again and he stepped forward. “She was in an accident, but she’s fine. Just a cut.”
Yeah, more lying to keep an old woman happy and worry-free.
“Oh, are you all right?” Thelma asked, searching Callie’s face.
Callie offered a smile. “I’m fine. How are you doing?”
Thelma laughed. “I’m old. That’s about it. I’ve been waiting for you to come. I can’t wait to hear how the wedding is coming. Noah has told me very little. I want to hear more details from the bride-to-be.”
“Oh, we’re not engaged,” Callie said. “We—”
Noah rested a hand on Callie’s shoulder in the silent gesture for her to stop talking.
“Thelma loves to talk weddings, but I’d rather discuss how you’re feeling today,” he said, turning to Thelma. He had to change the subject.
Thelma waved a hand in the air. “I’m fine. I already told you. I’d much rather discuss the wedding of my beautiful granddaughter.” Thelma pushed out of her recliner. “Hold on just a moment. I have something for you.”
Callie turned to Noah and whispered, “Who does she think I am?”