Christmas Therapy

“Some. I didn’t grow up with dogs.”

“Why not?”

He shrugged. “Never came up. Between the books and sports, I didn’t have time to be responsible for a dog.” He led her into the room with plain walls, an exam table, and fluorescent lighting. He helped Heather up, ignoring the ache in his arms to hold on to her longer. He did his best to ignore the sensations the last time she was here, but if she kept coming back, could he keep his focus on work?

“Ready?” he asked.

“Let’s go.” Heather stared down at her hands. Her demeanor differed from the friendly smile he saw her give to Maggie.

Allen didn’t ask questions but led her into the exercise using a stretch band. Heather pushed through each one as she always did. She never backed down. Her determination moved him.

“Good work.” While he complimented and encouraged all his clients, Heather’s inner glow enchanted him.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

She shook her head. “No really. I know I wasn’t easy to get along with before, but I appreciate everything you’re doing for me. I owe you one, especially for letting us have some sessions here.”

Allen sucked in a quick breath. “It’s all you, Heather.”

“But someone once told me, there’s nothing wrong with asking for help.”

With that, the sound of blood rushed to his ears. His heart seemed to freeze and then pound in his chest. Heather.

He never met a woman like her. She thrilled him. Challenged him.

If only he wasn’t to blame for his failed marriage. Crystal was responsible for her share, but he lost himself in her. He would have lassoed the moon if that’s what she wanted. He couldn’t get lost in someone else again, but with Heather, he edged toward another cliff.

“Are you okay?” she asked.

Allen didn’t respond but his gaze dropped to her lips. He had moved close to adjusting the stretch band. He then caught her floral scent once more and his hands moistened.

“Allen?”

Even the way she said his name undid him in her smoky voice. Heather furrowed her eyebrows at first but then released them, tilting her head to the side. “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee blasted through the speakers. It startled them both and Heather pressed a hand to her chest.

“Is that another dance party?”

Allen chuckled. “Sounds like it.”

Heather smiled. “You do this all the time? I thought it was for special occasions.”

“I think it’s becoming a regular thing for the patients to unwind and have fun with each other. The staff doesn’t mind it. Last week it was Amy Grant’s ‘Christmas to Remember’.”

Heather beamed. “Do you mind if I take a break to watch again?”

Allen helped her down and she peeped out the door. He stood behind her, ignoring the desire to erase the distance between them.

***

Heather giggled at the mock Soul Train line as the patients took turns dancing on crutches. Even one patient made his way down the line in his wheelchair. Laughter filled the air.

Heather touched a hand to her lips. “You have to join them.” Then she reached her hand to push him in the hallway.

Allen didn’t move. “I told you I don’t dance in public.”

He seemed adamant about his decision and wasn’t going to change. She wanted to ask if he would do it for her, but she didn’t want to go too far. She backed off.