Tying the Knot by Susan May Warren Read Free Book Online Page A

blinked, trying to comprehend Dr. Simpson’s words. Spend her internship cooped up at a camp? How would she impress the board with her competence when all she did was pull out slivers? Still, the idea of nothing more traumatic than a bloody nose had its appeal.
    “Where is the camp?”
    Dr. Simpson looked up from his scribbles. “Up the Gunflint Trail about twenty miles. You’ll be close enough to come home on the weekends.”
    “I have to sleep there?” Anne winced at her outburst and stared out the window. Her face grew hot as she felt the doctor’s gaze on her. “I’m sorry. I pictured something different.”
    Silence, save for the whir of an overhead fan, filled the room. She watched the wind skim through the forest at the edge of a meadow. A squirrel ran down from a nearby poplar and stared at her, its jaw moving. Anne sighed. Perhaps she needed a summer of peace. She might even be willing to acknowledge God’s involvement. Perhaps a positive attitude would also add to her marketability.
    She turned back to Dr. Simpson. She was startled at the sight of his head bowed, his hands clasped. Was he praying? Anne wondered what she’d done to elicit such concern.
    He cleared his throat and looked at her. “Let’s give it two weeks. If it doesn’t work out, we’ll revamp your course of study.” He handed her the paper. “These are the directions to the camp and Ms. Olson’s telephone number. I’ll expect you in my office in two weeks for a report.”
    “You don’t want to see me every day?”
    “Why? You’re ultimately accountable to yourself, and I’m going to trust you to do your best job.”
    Anne nodded. Another change from the city—no one looking over her shoulder. It made her feel oddly naked. “Um . . . I was wondering about pay. Usually the school covers my internship costs, but since I am working outside their usual sphere, they won’t fund my internship.” She swallowed the embarrassment thick in her throat. “I don’t suppose . . .”
    Dr. Simpson did have a kind face. She read it in his smile, the crinkles around his eyes. “I don’t have anything worked out right now, but the camp should cover your expenses, and perhaps when your time there is complete, Deep Haven Municipal can offer you a compensation package.”
    At least in camp she wouldn’t have to buy a uniform, and they would feed her. She stood and clasped the doctor’s hand. “Thank you for accepting me.”
    “We’re pleased to have you. You’re not the only new face in town, by the way.” He stood and gestured to the door. “Dr. Jefferies, please come in.”
    A slim man, slightly taller than herself, pushed the door open with two fingers. His smile seemed genuine, and he extended a hand to Anne. “Richard Jefferies. Family practice.”
    His wide hand held hers a moment longer than necessary. She pulled away but noticed his gaze linger.
    “I see I arrived just in time.” He smoothed down a teal-and-brown tie and buttoned his lab coat.
    Anne frowned at a tremble in his hands.
    “Dr. Jefferies is taking over for Dr. Holm while he is on summer sabbatical.” Dr. Simpson came around the desk to clap the younger doctor on the shoulder. “He’s fresh out of residency at St. Katherine’s in Duluth.”
    “Good to meet you,” Anne said quietly.
    “Anne’s here to finish her internship in community nursing.” Dr. Simpson edged back toward his desk, perhaps to give her room to move past them in his cramped office.
    Dr. Jefferies didn’t budge. “Where are you from?” His brown eyes, muddy in color and depth, captured hers.
    “Minneapolis,” she heard herself say. What was it about him that sent her shivers?
    “I’ve been there a few times.” He backed away and shoved his hands into his pockets. “I love the Sculpture Garden.” He folded his arms across his chest; his tone spoke of interest.
    “Have you ever walked through the arboretum at night? It’s gorgeous.” Anne felt her tension dissipating.