Chapter 20
20
F ive days later, that possibility seemed more real than ever. Lila stood in the clinic’s break room, nervously adjusting her scrubs as she prepared for another day under Whit Calloway’s watchful eye. She had tried to push the conversation with her friends to the back of her mind, but their words echoed in her thoughts.
Whit walked in, his usual confident stride making her heart skip a beat. “Morning, Lila,” he said with a warm smile. “Ready for another busy day?”
Lila nodded, trying to match his enthusiasm. “Always.”
As they worked side by side, she couldn’t help but notice the small, thoughtful gestures Whit made—how he ensured she had the tools she needed, the way he patiently explained complex cases, and the genuine care he showed for their animal patients and their owners.
It was becoming harder to ignore that her original assessment had been wrong. She was getting to like him—far more than she had expected.
Once, Whit had reached from behind her to pull a box of syringes off the shelf. His breath on her cheek made her blush. And a tingle ran down her spine.
She hadn’t tingled over a man for a very long time.
She’d spent more than one sleepless night thinking about it all. So many questions swirled in her mind in the dark.
She didn’t know Whit’s middle name or what size shoes he wore…or what made him laugh until he cried. She tried to picture what his hair looked like first thing in the morning when it was messy. What was his preference in take-out food? What were his dreams he never said out loud but secretly wished to come true?
Lila felt like a schoolgirl, thinking about Whit all the time.
She knew she had to be cautious, though. Her heart had been dormant for a long time and the fear of opening up again was almost paralyzing. But something about Whit made her want to take that risk, to trust again. Maybe it was the way he genuinely cared for the animals or the way he always seemed to know when she needed a moment of silence or a kind word.
Or the way he looked at her when he brought her a mug of coffee in the morning.
Was it possible he felt the same attraction for her?
It seemed so, but there was no way to know for sure. Not unless she came out and asked him. She’d rather die than be that vulnerable. What could he possibly say if she’d assumed his feelings were more than they were? He might have been simply being kind and thoughtful.
Whit came up behind her and looked over her shoulder at the clipboard she held. “What have we got up for this morning?” he asked, standing so close she could smell his cologne.
“Uh, Fleet Southcott’s Lab had a litter of pups. He found homes for all but one. We’re spaying the little female he decided to keep.”
As if on cue, the front door opened.
Whit smiled warmly at Fleet as he entered the clinic. “Good morning, Fleet. How’s our little patient doing today?”
Fleet gave a nervous chuckle, glancing down at the sleeping puppy in his arms. “Morning, Dr. Whit. This is Nala. And she’s good. Honestly, I think I'm more worried than she is.”
Lila stepped forward, reaching out to gently stroke the pup’s head. “It’s completely normal to feel that way, Fleet. She’s in good hands, though. We’ll take excellent care of her.”
Whit nodded in agreement. “Absolutely. This is a routine procedure, and we’ll make sure she’s comfortable and well taken care of throughout the procedure.”
Fleet took a deep breath, his grip on the pup tightening slightly. “I know, I know. It’s just…she’s quickly become part of the family, you know? I want to make sure she’s okay.”
Whit placed a reassuring hand on Fleet’s shoulder. “I get it. I really do. We understand how much she means to you. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Should take less than an hour and you’ll have her back before you know it.”
Fleet’s tension seemed to ease a bit at Whit’s words. “Thanks, Dr. Whit. That means a lot.”
Whit turned to Lila. “Why don’t you take Fleet and his pup into the exam room, and I’ll prep the operating room? We’ll get started soon.”
Lila nodded, smiling at Fleet. “Come on, let’s get her settled in. We'll take good care of her, I promise.”
As they moved toward the exam room, Lila couldn’t help but notice how Whit’s presence seemed to calm both her and Fleet. His confidence and kindness were qualities she admired more and more each day. It made her wonder what other facets of him she had yet to discover.
Once they were in the exam room, Lila helped Fleet place the puppy on the table. She gently stroked the pup’s fur, speaking softly to reassure both the animal and its owner. “She’ll be just fine, Fleet.”
Fleet nodded, giving the pup one last affectionate pat before stepping back. He stroked his handlebar mustache. “I know she will. Thanks, Lila.”
Whit entered the room a few minutes later, fully prepped and ready. “Alright, let’s get started. Fleet, you can wait out front. I think we have some recent copies of Horseman magazine. We’ll come get you as soon as we’re done.”
Fleet hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Okay. I’ll be right outside.”
As Fleet left the room, Whit turned to Lila. “Ready?”
Lila took a deep breath. “Ready.”
Whit smiled, and for a moment, their eyes met, sharing an unspoken understanding and connection. Then, with a nod, they turned their attention to the task at hand, working together seamlessly to care for the little pup.
The spay procedure went as expected and soon, little Nala and Fleet were reunited.
Fleet drew her into his arms. “I can’t thank you enough, you two.”
Lila handed him a sheet of printed instructions. “Here’s what you need to know for taking care of Nala over the next few days.”
Fleet took the paper and listened attentively as Lila explained. “For the next ten to fourteen days, you need to keep her as calm and quiet as possible. No running, jumping, or rough play. Leash walks only.”
Whit joined them wiping his hands with a towel. “Check her incision site daily for any signs of swelling, redness, or discharge. It’s normal to see a bit of redness, but if it looks very inflamed or if there’s any oozing, give us a call immediately.”
Fleet nodded that he understood. “And this?” He pointed to the soft cone around the pup’s neck.
Lila straightened the device. “Make sure she doesn’t lick or chew at her stitches. We’ve given her this soft cone to wear, and she should keep it on until the stitches are removed in about a week.”
Whit smiled reassuringly. “She’s a strong little pup, and she should recover quickly. But if you have any questions or concerns, we’re here for you.”
Fleet nodded, looking relieved. “Thanks, both of you. I really appreciate it.”
“No problem at all,” she said. “We’ll check in with you in a couple of days to see how she’s doing. Take care, Fleet.”
As Fleet carried Nala out of the clinic, Lila felt a warm sense of accomplishment. She loved helping animals and their owners, and moments like this made her feel grateful for her work, and maybe a bit closer to Whit, too.
Lila hated to admit it, but working with Whit wasn’t so bad, after all. Unlike Doc Tillman, Whit seemed to respect her knowledge and ability. She was never made to feel inferior and was considered an important part of the veterinary team.
As the day wound down and they finished up the last of their appointments, Lila found herself lingering in the break room, her thoughts racing. She couldn’t shake the growing attraction she felt towards Whit, nor the warmth that seemed to blossom whenever they worked together. She knew she had to do something about it, but the idea of making the first move filled her with nervous energy.
Whit entered the room, his easy smile making her heart skip a beat. “Hey, Lila. You did a great job today. Thanks for handling everything so smoothly.”
Lila smiled back, trying to gather her courage. “Thanks, Whit. It’s been good working with you.”
There was a moment of silence, the kind that could stretch awkwardly if left unattended. Lila took a deep breath, deciding it was now or never. “Whit, I was thinking…my daughter will be out with friends tonight. I hate eating alone. If you’re not busy, maybe you’d like to come over for dinner? Just a casual meal. I owe you for all the help you’ve been giving me here.”
Whit raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise in his eyes, followed by a genuine smile. “Dinner? That sounds great, Lila. I’d love to.”
Lila’s heart raced. “Really? Great! I mean, good. I’ll, uh, cook something nice.”
Whit chuckled softly. “I’m sure whatever you make will be fantastic. What time should I come over?”
“How about seven?” she suggested, her nerves slightly easing with his enthusiasm.
“Seven it is,” Whit agreed. “Need me to bring anything?”
“Just yourself,” Lila said with a smile. “I’ll take care of the rest.”
As Whit left to finish up his paperwork, Lila felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. She couldn’t believe she had actually invited him over. The rest of the day passed in a blur as she finished her tasks and made her way home to prepare.
By the time seven o’clock rolled around, Lila had set the table and cooked a simple yet delicious meal of roasted chicken with vegetables, a fresh salad, and a homemade apple pie for dessert. She was just lighting a couple of candles on the table when the doorbell rang.
Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Lila opened the door to find Whit standing there, holding a bottle of wine, and wearing a warm smile. “Hey, Lila. This is for you,” he said, handing her the wine.
“Thanks, Whit. Come on in,” Lila replied, stepping aside to let him enter.
As they settled around the table to eat, the conversation flowed easily, moving from their shared experiences at the clinic to their lives outside of work.
After dinner, Lila invited Whit into the living room. “Would you like more wine? I have a bottle of pinot noir from a winery in Oregon you might enjoy.”
“Sure, I’d like that.”
She grabbed the bottle and a corkscrew from her wine rack. They moved to the sofa.
“Here, let me,” Whit offered. He uncorked the bottle and poured, filling their glasses.
As they sipped on their wine, the conversation turned deeper, more personal. She told him about her classes and how excited she was to finish and get her certification.
“Did you always know you wanted to work in this field?” he asked.
Lila chuckled and shook her head. “No, I stumbled into it. After Aaron died, I needed a job. Doc Tillman needed an assistant. I had no experience, but he took pity and offered to train me.” She kicked off her shoes and tucked her feet up under her on the sofa. “What about you?”
Whit leaned back on the couch, his eyes reflecting the warm candlelight. “Like you, I wasn’t always planning on being a vet. My dad wanted me to join the family ranching business, but I quickly realized my heart wasn’t in it.” He paused, seeming to reflect on what he was about to say. “That didn’t exactly set very well.”
Lila stared at him wide-eyed. “I’m so sorry. Have you smoothed things over?”
Whit shook his head. “Not entirely. My mother quickly joined my dad’s side when I announced I was moving to Wyoming. I mean, she was fine with me following my aspirations, so long as I practiced in Texas…preferably within twenty miles of Abilene.” He laughed lightly before adding, “The sprawling cattle ranch I grew up on was originally in my mother’s family. She was firm in her expectation that the next generation step up and take over. Since I am an only child, that landed on me.”
“Wow, that’s a lot,” Lila said, filling his wine glass.
“Yeah, the whole family legacy thing. It can be heavy, you know?”
After completing his veterinary studies and gaining several years of experience, Whit’s desire for a fresh start and to escape the weight of his family’s expectations led him to move to the Tetons after seeing the notice that Doc Tillman’s practice was up for sale. “The scenic beauty and tight-knit community offered me the perfect opportunity to redefine my identity and start anew, far from the shadow of my family ranch…and other accompanying complications.”
Lila looked at him, intrigued. “What made you switch to veterinary medicine?”
Whit smiled softly, a distant look in his eyes. “There was this stray dog that used to hang around the ranch. I started feeding him, and one day he got hit by a car. I rushed him to the nearest vet, and the way they saved his life…it just clicked for me. I knew that’s what I wanted to do—help animals. So, I switched majors, and here I am.”
Lila nodded, feeling a new depth of understanding and admiration for Whit. “That’s incredible, Whit. I had no idea. It’s amazing how life can change direction like that.”
Whit chuckled. “Yeah, it is. And coming here, to this town, meeting you…it’s one of the best changes I’ve made.”
Lila’s heart skipped a beat. Meeting her had fed the equation that added up to his satisfaction with the move.
Lila found herself relaxing, enjoying Whit’s company and the way he made her laugh.
Whit turned to her, his expression thoughtful. “You know, Lila, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I came here—especially after that first meeting at the rodeo—but you’ve helped make Thunder Mountain feel like home.”
Lila felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. “I’m glad you feel that way. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you, too. More than I expected.”
There was a moment of silence, filled with unspoken possibilities. Whit reached out and gently took her hand. “I know this might be sudden, but I think there’s something special between us. I’d like to see where it goes if you’re willing.” He cleared his throat. “I know I’m technically your boss, but I hope that won’t be a problem. I feel like we’re a team, you know?”
Lila’s heart raced, but she felt a sense of certainty she hadn’t felt in a long time. “I’d like that too, Whit.”
As they sat there, hand in hand, Lila realized that maybe, just maybe, she was ready to open her heart again. Yes, things were complex, but the complications were worth working out.
The idea of Whit by her side felt like the start of something truly beautiful.
Whit turned to her, his gaze soft and intense. He gently cupped her cheek, leaning in slowly. Lila’s breath hitched, her heart pounding as he closed the distance between them. Just as their lips were about to meet, the front door burst open, and a chorus of giggles filled the room.
“Mom, we’re home!” Camille’s voice rang out, followed by the sound of several teenage girls chattering excitedly.
Lila and Whit quickly pulled apart, both of them flustered.
Camille entered the living room with her friends, her eyes widening when she saw Whit sitting so close to her mother. “Oh! Hi, Dr. Calloway. I forgot you were coming for dinner.”
Whit cleared his throat, standing up and giving Lila a sheepish smile. “Hey, Camille. We were just…catching up after work.”
Camille glanced between them, a knowing look in her eyes. “Right. Well, these are my friends, Ashley, Brooke, and Jenna. We’re just going to hang out in my room for a bit.”
The girls waved and smiled, trying to stifle their giggles as they followed Camille down the hall.
Lila could feel her face burning with embarrassment. “Sorry about that,” she said, trying to laugh it off.
Whit chuckled, running a hand through his hair. “No need to apologize. They’re great kids.”
Lila sighed, feeling both relief and disappointment at the interruption. “Yeah, they are. Maybe we can pick this up another time?”
Whit nodded, his eyes still holding that same warmth and affection. “I’d like that. Very much.”
As he gathered his things to leave, Whit turned back to her at the door. “Goodnight, Lila. And thanks for dinner. It was perfect.”
“Goodnight, Whit,” she replied, watching as he walked to his car. She closed the door, leaning against it for a moment, her mind racing with the events of the evening.
From down the hall, she could hear Camille and her friends laughing and talking, oblivious to the moment they had interrupted.
Lila smiled to herself, feeling a sense of hope and excitement for the future. She knew that whatever happened next, she was ready to embrace it with open arms. And as she turned off the lights and headed to bed, her thoughts were filled with the promise of what could be with Whit Calloway.
For the first time in a long time, Lila lay in bed, a soft smile playing on her lips as she drifted off to sleep, dreaming of new beginnings and the unexpected joys of life.