The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 627

"I'm sure. I'll drive myself."

Sebastian brushed a kiss across the tip of her nose. "I can't bear to let you go."

Looking at him, Riley felt like she was dealing with a clingy, overgrown child. Amusement danced in her eyes. "Aren't you going to work?"

He pulled her tight against his chest. "Yeah. I'm thinking about playing hooky today."

Her smile deepened as she slid her arms around his narrow waist. "I refuse to be a bad influence."

Sebastian nuzzled affectionately into the curve of her neck and fell quiet.

Riley relished the silence.

They stood there, holding each other in the dim stairwell for a few long moments before finally parting. Hand in hand, they stepped back out into the lobby.

At the hospital.

Riley had just finished morning rounds and returned to her office when Daphne Spencer called. "Evie, are you working?"

"Yes."

"Is mom bothering you?"

"Not at all."

"Would it be alright if mom stopped by to bring you lunch today?" As if terrified of rejection, Daphne hurriedly added, "There's something I really need to talk to you about in person."

"Sure. I'll text you the address."

"Wonderful! I'll let you get back to work. I won't disturb you anymore." The elation in Daphne's voice was unmistakable.

"Bye." After hanging up, Riley sent Daphne the hospital's location pin and texted her the specific floor and department.

At noon, when shifts changed, Holly Xavier finished up her charts and looked over at Riley. "Dr. Vance, want to grab lunch together?"

Riley smiled brightly. "Someone is actually bringing me lunch today, so I won't be heading to the cafeteria with you."

Holly eyed her with blatant curiosity.

"Why are you staring at me?" Riley touched her cheek. "Is there something on my face?"

Holly shook her head. "No, you're just acting different."