The Forgotten Read Online Free Page B

you?”
    The woman gasped. “Of course not. He drinks bottled water. Just like I do. The water delivery man came by, too, but Poopypie was outside.”
    â€œI’m sure that wasn’t a problem,” Maggie soothed. “But what about you, Mrs. Spender? If you’re upset about anything, your dog could be picking up on your emotions.” Normally she called animals by their names, but Poopypie was one she just couldn’t get out twice in one conversation.
    â€œOh, no, everything’s fine.” She hesitated. “I’ve been dreaming about my husband. He’s dead, you know.”
    â€œI’m sorry.”
    â€œIt’s okay, he’s been dead for five years.”
    â€œDoes your dog sleep with you? If you’re having nightmares, he may be sensing your fear.”
    Penny smiled. “They’re not nightmares.”
    Frenzied barking in the waiting room reminded Maggie that time was getting away from her. “Call me in a few days and let me know how he’s doing. We’ll decide if we need to do anything else at that point.” She led her to the door, followed her out into the waiting room, and left her at the counter.
    It was four-thirty and she had a full house. Several birds, which was unusual and a little intimidating since her partner, who really knew birds, was on vacation, two people with cat carriers, three with leashed dogs, one of which was madly barking at Kevin Bass, who stood against a wall, looking as nervous as Poopypie. He held a white plastic grocery sack. The barking dog stared fixedly at it.
    Maggie crossed to Kevin. “Is that the bird?” she asked softly.
    â€œI brought you two,” he murmured, grinning sickly. “I mean, we had plenty to spare.”
    She took the sack. “Thanks. Is Will still at the office?”
    â€œNo. He’s working at home.”
    â€œOkay.” She studied his pale face. “Pretty bad, huh?”
    He nodded. “Disgusting. I’m going to go home and shower for an hour.”
    â€œSay hello to Gabe for me.”
    Kevin’s smile was tentative but genuine. “I will.”
    â€œDo you want me to call you two after I check out the birds?”
    â€œNo. Just Will. Gabe and I are celebrating tonight.”
    â€œOf course.” She smiled, too. “That’s so romantic.”
    â€œYeah. And really naughty. I bought a new DVD just for tonight. You can borrow it later. You’ll love it. The guys are so much better looking than in straight porn.”
    She stifled a laugh. “See you later, Kevin.”
    â€œYeah. Saturday night.”
    â€œSaturday night?”
    â€œWill’s cooking. He didn’t tell you yet?”
    â€œNot yet. But he was a little preoccupied when we spoke.”
    â€œHe’ll ask. You say yes.” Kevin looked concerned. “You don’t have a date or anything?”
    She smiled. “Me? Who’d have me?”
    Kevin looked her up and down. “If I wasn’t taken, I’d be all over you, babe.” He made a tiger growl. “See you Saturday night. Wear something sexy.”
    â€œWhy? Are you thinking of switch-hitting?”
    â€œYou know me better than that, lover. Give Will a thrill and leave your bra at home. Poor guy needs something nice to look at.”
    â€œThen invite Nurse Boobies.” She spoke quickly, aware that her face was on fire. “You know I don’t like you to joke about that.”
    Kevin’s eyes locked on hers for a long moment. “Ever wonder why you don’t like it, Maggie?” An impish eyebrow shot up as he added, “Maybe you should discuss it with a therapist.”
    Furiously blushing, she said, “See you,” turned and took the bag into the lab and tossed it in a refrigerator, where it joined a few other items no one would ever want to eat. She washed up and returned to the exam room, then signaled Annette that she was ready for her next