A Matter of Trust

Kelly Brackett and Dixie McCall had been friends and co-workers a long time. They had followed similar career paths and had both wound up in the Emergency Department of Rampart General Hospital in Carson City, California, in the heart of Los Angeles County.

Dixie McCall had worked in several departments in the hospital, but had found her true calling in the ER. She had worked her way up to the position of head nurse, a well-deserved honor. She had never married--the relationships she had had in the past led to a lot of pain. Somehow the men she had dated had never quite understood her career choice. Her last relationship had caused such pain that she had put up an invisible wall and hadn’t let anyone get close for a long, long time.

Kelly Brackett was one of the first doctors to specialize in emergency medicine. When he first arrived at Rampart, he caused quite a stir. The young, handsome doctor who took the Emergency department by storm quickly gained the reputation of being brilliant, but short-tempered and difficult to work with. It wasn’t that he was purposely difficult--he was just lacking in people skills. Joe Early, a fellow emergency room doctor about 20 years Kel’s senior, took the young man under his wing and taught him that compassion and kindness, along with medical knowledge, was what made an excellent doctor. In time, Kelly’s reputation changed to one of a superb doctor and he was eventually promoted to the position of Director of Emergency Services.

Because Kelly had recognized Dixie’s talent, he had asked that she be assigned to him whenever possible. It was only natural that they started to take breaks together as they were more often than not working on the same patients. The two became friends over time. Joe Early was the third member of their group. Although he was older than the other two, he enjoyed their company . The three were pals at work. Dixie, being the head nurse, was isolated from the other nurses, as she was their supervisor. She enjoyed Kel and Joe’s company; they were about the only males she trusted. It was a lot safer having men as buddies--hat way she didn’t get hurt. The threesome shared a passion for something other than medicine: they were all die-hard Los Angeles Dodger fans and had engaged in many discussions about their beloved team.

Kelly was on duty one day when one of the coaches of the Dodgers was brought in after he had suffered an apparent heart attack during a game. He had requested a radio be brought in so he could keep track of the game’s progress. Kel refused to allow the radio, but agreed to let Dixie listen at the base station and update them on any changes. Once Kel determined that the coach hadn’t had a heart attack but was suffering a severe case of indigestion, he allowed the radio to be turned on. (After all, he was interested in the score, also.) The coach was so grateful and convinced that Kel had saved his life that he insisted on giving the doctor two tickets to a game for the following week.

The coach winked and said, “Hey, Doc, why don’t you take that pretty little nurse? She seemed to enjoy listening to the game.”

“Yeah,” smiled Kel, “she does like baseball.”

“Good, I hope you guys have a good time. Thanks again, Doc.” The coach waved as he walked out of the treatment room.

Kel looked down at the tickets in his hand. He thought to himself, “Why not ask Dix? She would probably get a kick out of it.” Kel slipped the tickets into the pocket of his lab coat and went to find Dixie. He found her at the nurses’ station. She looked like she was ready for a break. As he approached the station, he said, “Hey, Dix, ready for a break?”

She didn’t seem to hear him and continued with her paper work.

“Dix?” he said as he put his hand on her shoulder. The action startled her. She jumped and knocked the pile of papers on the floor. “Sorry!” grinned Kel as he helped her pick them up.

“Thanks,” she said.

“Ready for a break?”

Her face broke into a smile and she nodded. “Oh, yeah! That’s the best offer I’ve had all day.”

When they were in the staff lounge, she asked about Tom Dixon, the Dodger’s coach. Kelly started to chuckle.

“Oh, he’s fine. Just a severe case of indigestion brought on by too much food and beer at the Hot Tamale last night, combined with a team that was losing.”

“Ohh,” moaned Dixie.

“Oh, by the way, he left something for us . . .” The handsome man reached into his pocket and pulled out the tickets. “I have orders to take that ‘pretty little baseball fan.’”

Dixie’s eyes lit up when she saw the tickets.

“How about it? Are you free?”

“Sure!” exclaimed Dix. “This will be fun. I haven’t been to a game in ages.”

Kel found himself pleased with being able to make Dixie so happy. He was also looking forward to socializing with Dixie. “Yeah,” he agreed, “it’s about time we have some fun.”

Kelly heard himself being paged back to Emergency.

“Hey.” He paused on the way out the door. “You should smile like that more often.”

Dixie raised her eyebrow at the comment, wondering what Kel was up to. He wasn’t in the habit of saying things like that. She finished her coffee and thought that a night out with Kel sounded great.

The day of the game arrived. Dix and Kel each brought a change of clothes and were planning to leave for the game straight from the hospital. They were planning on stopping to eat before the game, but were held up by a case that was brought in right before they were supposed to leave. When they were finally able to change their clothes and leave, Kel looked at his watch and frowned.

Dix shrugged her shoulders and said, “What’s a ball game without hot dogs and beer? It works for me.”

“Good,” replied Kel. “I’ll meet you back here. We better hurry if we are going to catch the start of the game.”

Kel changed into a pair of jeans and a short-sleeve polo shirt that just happened to be the same color as his deep blue eyes. Dixie had a pair of jeans and a tight-fitting t-shirt that set off her figure beautifully. When they saw each other, they had similar thoughts.

“Wow! What a looker!” and “Nice, very nice!”

Joe Early was standing by the base station and pretended to be looking at a patient’s chart while he observed his two close friends. He looked over the top of his reading glasses and saw the looks they gave each other. Joe smiled to himself and thought, “Well, well, what do we have here? Did Kel finally wake up? Go for it, my friend. Dixie is a wonderful girl and deserves a good guy like you. You two are made for each other. Why am I the only one who can see it?”

The pair left Rampart not knowing they had made Joe Early’s day.

As Kelly expertly maneuvered through the Los Angeles traffic, he commented, “You know, I’m really looking forward to this.”

Dixie looked over at him and asked, “Kel, when was the last time you cut loose and had some fun?”

He adjusted his sunglasses, ran his hand through his thick, dark hair and sighed. “To tell you the truth, Dix, I don’t know. I guess it was when we took Joe out for his birthday.”

Dixie frowned and said, “But that was over two months ago!”

Kel shrugged and said, “Yeah. When I arrived at Rampart I jumped in with both feet and never really made contacts outside the hospital. I never have been much of a socializer, and now with all my extra duties, when I get home I’m bushed.”

“That’s a familiar story,” she nodded in agreement. “And I thought you had a different nurse lined up every night!” She hoped he didn’t take her gentle teasing the wrong way.

He chuckled and said, “ Now,come on, you make me sound like Johnny!” He was referring to one of their favorite paramedics. John Gage was a good-looking young bachelor with his eyes always on the lookout for a pretty nurse.

“Actually,” he continued, “I haven’t dated in quite a while. My last experience was such a disaster that I haven’t been looking for a while.”

Dixie arched one eyebrow in his direction. “Oh, really?” She was dying to know the details, but didn’t want to pry into Kel’s business. “I’m sorry, Kel, I didn’t mean to get personal,” she apologized and put her hand on his arm.

Kel shook his head and said, “Don’t worry about it, Dix. It’s no deep, dark secret. When I was in med school, there was a student nurse named Elizabeth. She wasn’t really serious about becoming a nurse--she was there to snag a doctor for a husband. I became her selected target. She came from an upper class family. Boy, she latched on to me and she knew her moves. She had me hook, line, and sinker.” He shook his head at the memory.

Dixie listened in total fascination.

“I can’t believe I was so gullible! It was such an ego boost to have this pretty, rich girl making me the center of the universe.”

Dixie was a little amused as she asked, “What happened?”

“Well,” he continued, “it started out great and then she started planning my life as well as hers. She would introduce me to her parents’ friends as her fiancee, which I wasn’t, and would make comments about how we would join the country club when I got my practice established. She wanted me to use my middle name because it sounded ‘more distinguished’ for a doctor. The killer was when I declared my specialty in emergency medicine. She tried her best to steer me toward dermatology, where the cases are nice and tidy and the schedule much more conducive to the country club life she was used to. I wouldn’t budge and she got mad. She started screaming that she couldn’t marry a man who was going to be married to his career. I said that was fine since I had never asked her anyway. It was a pretty nasty scene and that was it. Good thing I wised up when I did!”

Dixie giggled and said, “ I just can’t see you in dermatology!”

Kelly grinned and said, “Just think, I could be K. Robert Brackett, specialist in acne, moles, and the heartbreak of psoriasis!”

They both laughed and Dixie teased him, “Hey, you should smile like that more often!”

She meant every word of it. She couldn’t help but notice how handsome the good doctor was. She thought, “Kel, if you used that smile more often, you would have the nurses fighting each other to get to you.” She was really enjoying the funny side of the serious doctor she knew so well. Dixie was rewarded with another grin. She leaned back in her seat and said, “Kel, you’re not going to believe me, but I have almost the same story--the male version of Elizabeth!”

“Oh, no,” laughed Kelly. “I thought she was in a class by herself!”

“Well,” Dixie started, “it was my first job after returning stateside . . .”

Kel knew that Dixie’s past involved some time in the service overseas during the war, but he had never asked about it, sensing it wasn’t a subject she cared to talk about.

“Anyway, I had started at Southwest General in San Francisco. One of the residents, Kent Palmer, started asking me out. Oh, he had it all -- looks, charm, money. He was being groomed to become his dad’s partner in a general practice in a cushy section of town. Of course it was great, coming home from Hell and having this guy treat me like a queen. Oh, he played me like a fiddle. We started getting serious, and then he tried to fit me into the mold of a perfect doctor’s wife. He thought my nursing would be fine until we got married and then if I had to continue, I could work in the office with him and dear old dad.”

Kel said, “What a jerk! Couldn’t he see what a talent and a gift you have for nursing?’

Dixie replied, “He thought he had enough talent for the both of us. My career was a real hot topic. The other thing that infuriated me was his total lack of understanding and compassion about the war experience. He kept telling me I was home now and to forget about what I had seen. He didn’t want me to talk about it or especially be involved with the VFW and the Army Nurses support group. That’s what finally sealed it. The war was so fresh in my mind, I had to seek support.”

Kel was amazed that Dixie was opening up like this. He squeezed her hand and said, “Absolutely you needed support. I can’t believe he would make and issue of it. You and all the veterans deserve the utmost respect. You have been through things I can’t even imagine. You deserve credit, not ridicule.”

She returned the squeeze of his hand and said softly, “Thanks, Kel.”

Not wanting to change the mood into something serious, she said, “Hmmm . . . sounds like Elizabeth and Kent were made for each other!”

Kelly laughed and said, “That’s for sure! Hey, we’re here.”

They went into the stadium and got the hot dogs and beers and settled into their seats. They took in their surroundings. The seats the coach had given them were 10 rows behind home plate. They enjoyed an exciting game and watched the Dodgers come from behind to win. While Kelly watched the game, he thought about Dixie and how she had opened up tonight. He and Joe had speculated on what her story was, and had concluded that she had been hurt pretty badly in the past. He suspected that they were right on target.

When the game ended, the pair was caught in the crush of people leaving the stadium. Kelly reached for Dixie’s hand. It was a natural thing to do and felt right to both of them. They shared a smile, then each was lost in thought. Kelly thought, “Dix, this is the best time I’ve had since I can’t remember when. I hope this is the start of something good.”

Meanwhile Dixie was thinking, “Kel, I haven’t been so relaxed with a man in a long time. Maybe you are the one who can make me feel whole again. I know I’m safe with you.”

On the way home, they continued the easy conversation they had both been enjoying all evening. Kelly drove back to the hospital to take Dixie back to her car. He pulled into the spot beside hers. She turned to him with a smile and said, “ I had a great time, Kel. Thanks!”

He brought his hand up and cupped her cheek. “Believe me, the pleasure was all mine,” he said as he gently kissed her.” He looked in her eyes and was pleased with what he saw: he watched the smile spreading across her face. He had a warning light flash in his mind, “Go slow!” Somehow he knew that he had better not rush her no matter what his urges were.

“I had a great time, too,” he said softly as he stroked her cheek.

“Let’s do something again soon,” she responded, almost getting lost in the wonderful sensations, the smell of his after shave, the taste of his kiss, the feel of his hand as he stroked her cheek, and the gentle look in those gorgeous eyes.

It was everything Kel could do not to take her in his arms and kiss her like he wanted to. Instead he kissed her nose and said, “Promise.”

The silly kiss on the nose broke the spell. “I’m going to hold you to that promise, Doc,” she grinned.

“Be careful driving home.” he said.

He was pleasantly surprised as she gave him a quick goodnight kiss and said, “Promise. See you tomorrow.”

She got out of his car and got into her own. Kelly waited until she had safely driven off and then headed home.

As Dixie drove home, she realized that the evening had been the most enjoyable she had experienced in a long time. She thought, “Maybe you are finally ready to have a relationship again. Kel is a great guy--nothing like those other jerks. I don’t think he would do anything to hurt you, and he is interested in you, not your looks or what you can do for him. He seemed to enjoy the night, also. He was certainly more relaxed than I’ve ever seen him. I always knew he was handsome, but tonight he could melt me with those eyes. One thing is for sure: he can kiss me any time! I really hope this is the start of something good.”

The pretty nurse went to sleep that night thinking of the gentle touch and delicious kiss of a certain gorgeous doctor.

On his way home, Kelly Brackett was having a conversation with himself, too. Admit it, Kel, tonight made you feel more alive than you have in a long time. Dix sure seemed to enjoy it . I have a feeling that it’s been a long time since she’s dated, too. You better watch yourself--don’t start anything unless you mean it. There is something about her. She’s been hurt very badly by someone. Don’t you go and screw anything up. She’s a wonderful woman and doesn’t deserve to be hurt. On the other hand, I haven’t seen that sparkle in her eyes before, and she did kiss me back. I hope this can turn into something good.”

The handsome doctor went to sleep that night thinking of blue eyes that sparkled and the soft kiss of a certain beautiful nurse.

The following day at the hospital was business as usual, with the exception of Dr. Brackett being in an particularly good mood. The way the schedule ran, Kel and Dix didn’t have too much of a chance to talk, but they did catch themselves looking at each other and smiling. They were on opposite schedules for a couple of days and didn’t see each other until almost a week after the ball game.

Kelly and Dixie were both working the day shift. Dixie was having probably the worst morning of her career. Kel noticed and when they had a free minute, he said, “Hey, things just aren’t going your way today, are they?”

Dixie just looked at him and shook her head.

“How about if I take you to lunch at the Velvet Slipper--say at noon?”

Dixie gave him a half smile and said, “You’re on, as long as I don’t self-destruct before then!” The Velvet Slipper was a very elegant restaurant close to the hospital.

“Great!” smiled Kel as he was off on another case.

They got to the restaurant and started their salads. They drank a toast to “Pure, unadulterated peace.” Just then Maurice, the headwaiter, came up to them.

“Excuse me, Dr. Brackett, I hate to interrupt you but there’s a woman who came in off the street and collapsed. She’s very pregnant. I didn’t know what else to do.”

“It’s okay, Maurice,” said Kel as he and Dixie stood up. He gave Dixie his keys and said, “Dix, there’s a bag in the trunk.”

She nodded and headed to the car. Maurice led Kelly to the empty private dining room. There he found a woman around 30 lying on the floor and grimacing in pain, holding her abdomen. He asked Maurice for some clean towels, and to call an ambulance. Kelly knelt down and asked, “What’s your name?”

“Margaret,” she said through clenched teeth.

Dixie arrived and took out the things Kel would need out of his bag. “Margaret,” Kel said gently, “I’m Doctor Brackett, from the Emergency Department at Rampart General. I need you to relax as best you can. Is this your first baby?”

“No, my second,” Margaret replied as she gritted her teeth through another contraction. “I’m not due for another month. I was out shopping and was on my way to my husband’s office, but I couldn’t make it.”

Kel rolled up his sleeves and grabbed a tablecloth to give the woman some privacy. He was very calm and soothing as he examined her. “Well, Margaret,” he said, “it looks like you are going to have baby number two in just a few minutes.”

Dixie put the stethoscope around Kel’s neck and positioned it in his ears. He listened and then told Dix to keep track of the baby’s heartbeat. He leaned toward her as she took it back from him.

Maurice brought the clean towels and asked if there was anything else he could do.

“No, Maurice, just take care of your customers, and watch for the ambulance,” Kel answered.

“Okay, Doc,” the relieved man answered as he hurried out of the room.

Kel continued to coach the woman in his gentle way. Dix was impressed with how he was handling the woman. She knew he was concerned about the baby’s heart rate, but didn’t let on.

“Okay, Margaret, push! Good girl, keep it up! Okay, now breathe and push. One more, come on Margaret, give it all you’ve got! Okay, here it comes!”

Dixie had the suction bulb ready, along with a towel.

“Okay, Margaret, you have a beautiful baby girl!” Kelly exclaimed with a smile on his face. He suctioned the mucus from the baby’s nose and mouth and cut the cord.

Dixie was busy cleaning the baby the best she could with a towel and then she wrapped the baby up. By this time the ambulance had come. Dixie held the baby as the mother was transferred to the gurney. She handed the baby to the exhausted mother.

“Thank you!” said the grateful woman. “Thank you so much!”

Kelly smiled and said, “That’s okay. Congratulations”

Maurice was busy promising a free dinner to the new parents. Dixie started replacing the items from Kel’s bag. As Kel was rolling his sleeves down, he checked his watch. “Uh, Dix, about lunch . . .”

She nodded, “I know.”

Maurice heard the exchange and said, “I am so sorry. Will you please come back tonight and enjoy dinner on the house?”

Kel looked at Dixie and said hopefully, “Dix?”

She smiled and said, “We would love to, Maurice, thank you.”

“Good,” nodded Maurice. “Don’t worry about the time. We will seat you whenever you get here, and I promise this time no babies!”

The pair chuckled and said, “Thanks, Maurice.”

On the way back to the hospital, Dixie asked, “Well, what were the odds of that happening?”

“Yeah,” replied Kelly. “I’m sorry, Dix, I really wanted to treat you to a nice lunch.”

Dixie put her hand on his arm, and said, “Hey, it’s okay--it’s not your fault that Margaret’s baby decided to make an early appearance! Besides, now we get a night out.”

Kel smiled at that and said, “Right, that sounds pretty good to me.”

Back at the hospital Dixie’s day seemed to improve if for no other reason than that she was looking forward to another night out with Kelly. When the shift was over, Kel asked her what time she would be ready for him to pick her up.

“Give me a generous hour, okay?”

He nodded. “Sure,” smiling at the term “generous hour.”

Dixie got home and stood in front of her closet, trying to decide what to wear. She really wanted to look special tonight. It wasn’t everyday she had the chance to go to the Velvet Slipper, especially with someone like Kelly Brackett. She had really been thinking about him a lot since they had gone to the ball game. He was really a great guy. She hoped that he was starting to feel something for her, too.

“Be careful, Dix, don’t set yourself up for another fall. Right now you are just going out to dinner with a friend from work. Don’t start acting like a teenager and build this out of proportion. Remember, you still have to work with Kel every day.”

She finally settled on a simple black dress and proceeded to change.

The hour flew by quickly. She had just finished her makeup and was brushing out her hair when the knock on the door came. She was putting on her earrings as she answered the door.

Kel looked at her with open appreciation. “Wow,” he said. “You look absolutely beautiful.”

She was pleased he noticed. “You’re not so bad yourself,” she replied, thinking to herself, “This gorgeous creature is good old Kel?” He had changed into a navy suit with a light blue shirt and a print tie. She was in danger of drowning in those blue eyes again.

They spent a thoroughly enjoyable dinner, each becoming more fascinated with the other. When they were leaving, Maurice wished them a good night. They thanked him for the dinner. He responded, “It was my pleasure to see you have a good time and enjoy each other after the ‘special delivery’ this afternoon! Have a good night, and come back again.”

As they pulled into Dixie’s apartment building, she invited Kel in for a drink. Kel didn’t realize that it was a major step for Dixie to invite a man in.

“I was hoping you would ask,” he confessed.

She said, “I was hoping you would say yes.”

He took her hand as they walked across the parking lot. They were quiet, each wondering what the night would bring.

When they entered her apartment, Kelly took his suit coat off and loosened his tie. He asked Dixie if she minded if he went on the balcony. She told him to go ahead. While she fixed them each a glass of wine, he opened the door and went out, looking at the view.

Dixie came out and handed him a glass. “Penny for your thoughts,” she said.

He turned and looked at her. A slow smile spread across his face. “It’s some view from here.” At that point he wasn’t talking about the landscape, but the beautiful woman in front of him.

“Yeah, I got lucky,” she said softly, not exactly talking about her apartment. This time she was drowning in those eyes.

He reached out and caressed her hair. “I really like this view,” he said quietly in that low voice that Dixie was increasingly convinced was the sexiest voice she had ever heard. He took the wine glass out of her hand and set it down. His hands settled on her hips and he started, “Dix . . .” then words escaped him. He felt her hands resting on his shoulders. It was incredible that this woman who had worked with him for so long and was his “pal” was evoking such feelings in him. They shared a slow, gentle kiss.

Kelly looked into her eyes and saw exactly what he hoped was there. Her eyes were sparkling in that special way again, and the invisible wall was lowered. “Oh, Dix,” he said softly as he ran his fingers through her hair and brushed it away from her face. “I’ve been thinking about you so much this past week.”

Her hand found his hair and she began playing with it. “And, what were you thinking?” she asked in barely more than a whisper.

“I’ve been thinking that I haven’t felt this alive in a longtime, and about what a special lady you are and thinking about this . . .” He pulled her close and they shared a much more passionate kiss. He felt her pulse quicken as she eagerly responded.

She wrapped her arms around his neck and started thinking, “This is pretty close to heaven.”

Out of nowhere a very unwelcome sound broke the couple apart.

“Damn!” growled Kel as he reached for his beeper.

Dixie took a deep breath and said, “Well, that figures! The phone is on the table next to the couch.”

Kel went in and phoned the hospital. Dixie could tell that a patient was in trouble from Kel’s end of the conversation. Looking at his face she knew it was serious.

Kel gave the medical orders and looked at his watch. “Okay, I’ll be there in about 15 or 20 minutes.” He hung up the phone and looked at her. “It’s Ben Foster. The blood clot broke loose.”

She handed him his suit coat and asked, “ Do you need me to come?”

“No,” he shook his head. At the door, he paused and looked at her apologetically “Uh, Dix . . .”

She stroked his cheek and said, “Ben Foster needs you. Go.”

He quickly kissed her and was off. As he made his way to the car, he thought to himself, “Treat her right Kel, she’s a very special lady.”

Dixie locked the door behind him and started to clean up. She went on the balcony to get the wine glasses. Kel’s words came back to her. “I haven’t felt this alive in a long time... what a special lady you are.” She savored the memory of the feel of the kiss and him gently caressing her hair. And to think that all this was because of Kelly Brackett who she had worked with for so long. She thought to herself, “Maybe miracles really do happen. Maybe the nightmare is finally over.”

She would know tomorrow.

She picked up the glasses and locked the balcony door. She got ready for bed. Kel was on her mind as she drifted off to sleep. The best part of this thing was that she had known him long enough to know he was sincere and she could trust him.

It was a while before Kelly could examine the night’s events. As soon as he was behind the wheel of his car, his mind automatically shifted gears from Kel, the man who moments before had a beautiful woman in his arms, to Dr. Brackett whose patient was in serious trouble. When he arrived at the hospital Mike Morton, the resident on duty in the ER, filled him in.

The young doctor saw how dressed up Kel was and quickly deduced he had interrupted the senior doctor’s evening. “I’m sorry I had to call you back, Kel,” he apologized.

Kel shrugged and said, “It comes with the territory, Mike. Don’t worry about it--you did the right thing.”

Mike Morton was relieved that he wasn’t going to be the target of Kel’s temper. He had noticed that Kelly had been in a much better mood lately, and he guessed it had something to do with him being so dressed up. Whatever it was, it seemed the beast had been tamed for the moment, and no one was happier than the young resident.

Kelly instructed Mike on how to handle the crisis. They got to a point where all they could do was wait. Kel checked the IV one last time and said, “Okay, Mike, I’ll be in my office catching up on some paperwork. Keep me posted.”

“Okay, Kel.” Mike was still feeling bad about ruining Kel’s evening.

Kel sat down and tried to concentrate on his paperwork, but his mind kept drifting back to Dixie’s balcony. She had felt so good in his arms. He wondered what would have happened if his pager hadn’t gone off. It was probably a good thing they had been interrupted. He still couldn’t identify what it was, but he knew that for some reason she needed him to go slow. One thing was for sure. With Dixie he knew he was getting the real thing, not a rich little girl looking for a husband. At about 1:30 in the morning the crisis had been adverted and the patient was resting comfortably. Kel decided to just sleep on the couch in his office rather than to try to drive home and get back for the early shift. He fell asleep quickly, thinking of the soft lips of the woman he was quickly falling for.

Dixie awoke the next morning very happy. For the first time in a very long time, she had a man interested in her and wanting to get closer, and Dixie had not had a terrifying nightmare about it. She felt ecstatic as she realized how well she had slept. She checked the clock as she was getting dressed. She had to allow enough time to make a very important phone call.

After she dressed, she picked up the phone and dialed. “Hi, Mom!” she said cheerfully. “No, nothing’s wrong. Yeah, I have to work. I’ll be leaving soon, so I can’t talk long. I have to tell you something. Mom, I have found a great guy. We seem to be starting a relationship. No nightmares! And, Mom, guess what: I’m not afraid! Isn’t that great? I’ll keep you posted. Thanks. Love you, too. Bye!”

Barbara McCall hung up the phone thoughtfully. She had waited for this news a long time--that Dixie had found a “great guy” as she called this mystery man. She hoped that Dixie was right, and that this man had the power to do something that Barbara couldn’t--to get rid of her grown daughter’s nightmares.

Dixie got to the hospital a little early.

“Hey, Dix, how’s it going?”

Joe Early was greeted with a wide smile and Dixie saying, “Everything is terrific, Joe!”

Joe replied, “Boy, are you in a great mood for it being so early in the morning.”

Dix answered, “Yes, I am!”

Joe couldn’t help wondering if her good mood had anything to do with Kel still being so dressed up from what ever he was up to last night. “Hey, Dix, would you do me a favor?” Joe asked innocently, though it was entirely on purpose.

“Sure, Joe, what do you need?”

He motioned toward Kel’s office and said, “Go wake up Sleeping Beauty in there and tell him to grab a cup of coffee. His shift is about to start.”

She almost slipped and let on that she knew that Kel had come back to the hospital. Instead she said, “Sure, Joe, no problem.”

Dixie opened the door to Kel’s office quietly. She smiled as she looked at him sleeping peacefully on the couch. She knelt down and gently shook him “Kel? Kel, wake up”

The handsome man awoke with a start. He looked at Dixie and slowly got his bearings.

“Hi,” she smiled.

“Hi, yourself,” he answered with a smile as she couldn’t help but reach out and stroke his hair.

“Joe said to wake up and get some coffee, your shift is about to start.”

Kel groaned and sat up. “Okay.” He looked down at his rumpled clothes and realized that he couldn’t be seen on duty looking like that. “Dix, would you get me a set of scrubs? I can’t wear this!”

She grinned at him and winked. “Oh, I don’t know, I think you look kind of cute all rumpled and sleepy!”

Kel rolled his eyes and went to his desk. He got out an electric razor he kept there for just such occasions. He had learned that lesson as an intern.

Dixie left the office laughing.

“Oh, Dix,” Kel thought as he ran the razor over his face, “will there ever be a time when I can wake up to your beautiful face everyday?”

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. “Come in,” he answered.

Dixie came in with a set of surgical scrubs and a cup of coffee just the way he liked it. “Here you go.” She set the scrubs on the desk and handed the coffee to him.

“Thanks” he said as he took a sip. “Dix,” he started.

“Yeah, Kel?”

He started to unbutton his shirt as he talked. “This may be the only time we are alone all day. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed last night. You’re something special, do you know that?”

“Thanks,” she replied, savoring the gentle look in his eyes. “You’re not so bad yourself.”

“Thanks,” he smiled “ Hey, are you free tonight?”

She shook her head, her face showing disappointment. “No, I have a VFW meeting.”

She fully expected a nasty comment, like the other men in her life who couldn’t understand how important the VFW was to her even though the war was long over. Brace yourself, Dix, here it comes . . . this is where the ego gets in the way. This is where he wants to know why he’s not as important as a meeting.

Kel nodded. “Okay, tomorrow’s out, I’m on nights.” He thought a minute as he removed his shirt. “When’s your next day off?”

“Friday,” she answered, intrigued with the sight of the good doctor with his shirt off.

“Perfect,” he answered, as he pulled the shirt from the set of scrubs over his head. “Do you have anything going on?”

Dixie’s mouth had gone dry. “No,” she answered.

“Do you want to spend the day together?”

She helped herself to a sip of his coffee and said with a smile, “It’s a date. I have to get out to the floor.” She excused herself. As she left her mind was whirling. He’s okay with the VFW! We are going to spend the day together! I never knew how sexy scrubs were! Whoa, girl, get your mind on work!

Just then Joe came by. “How’s Sleeping Beauty?” he asked. He couldn’t help but notice the grin on her face.

“He’s changing into scrubs--he’ll be here in a minute.”

“Okay,” Joe answered as he walked down the hallway. Well, well, the older man thought. Is it Kel who is putting that smile on your face, Dix? I hope so--you two both deserve some happiness. What could be better for you than each other?

Dixie thought Friday would never come. She had something important to discuss with Kel. When the big day finally came, they decided on a picnic lunch. They went to a scenic park with some nature trails by the river and a large waterfall. After they ate, they walked on one of the paths and headed toward the waterfall. Their hands naturally found each other, and they walked hand in hand in a comfortable silence for a while. They came to the waterfall and sat down on a bench on the overlook deck. Kel draped his arm around Dixie’s shoulder.

“Dix, can I ask you something?” he started.

“Sure,” she replied.

“Are you as happy as I am with this turn of events?”

“Kel, I am happier right now than I have been in years.”

He smiled.

She continued. “You are the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I just . . .” She paused, feeling herself get choked up. She didn’t want to tell him all the details of the past, why she was so afraid that this would end in disaster, too. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

Kel gently said, “You’ve been hurt pretty badly before, haven’t you?”

She nodded.

“Was it the pompous doctor?”

She shook her head no.

“Was it after him?”

She nodded yes again.

Kel wasn’t about to push her for details. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. The back of her head rested against his shoulder as she faced the waterfall.

“Oh, Dix, I wish I could take away all that pain. You are so special. I swear to you that the last thing I want to do is to hurt you. You believe me, don’t you?”

She nodded again.

“You know,” he continued, “I had kind of shut myself away. Part of it was insulation against the suffering we see every day on the job, part was being a natural loner, and part was disgust after the whole Elizabeth thing. Since I started working with you, I’ve realized what I’ve been missing. I had forgotten how enjoyable sharing time with someone you care about can be. I know my general mood has improved and it is because of you. I just want to make you as happy as you have made me.”

Dixie knew then that she loved this kind, gentle, man holding her. She turned to face him, tears of joy running down her face. “You have, Kel, you have.”

He wiped a tear from her cheek and gently kissed her.

As the kiss ended, Dixie caressed Kelly’s cheek and said softly, “Thank you.”

“For what?” he asked

“For being you and for being so good to me.”

“You make it easy,” he responded.

She snuggled against him and enjoyed the view of the waterfall, suddenly noticing the sun’s reflection making a rainbow that seemed to reach out to them. It was then that Kelly Brackett knew that he loved the woman he held.

They later went to a casual restaurant for dinner and then went back to Dixie’s to watch an old movie on television. Before the movie came on, Dixie seemed to have something on her mind. Kelly looked at her with a question in his eyes. “What’s on your mind, sweetheart?”

The endearment sounded wonderful to her and gave her the courage to continue.

Kelly wondered if she was going to go into her past. He was willing to help her face it, but he knew it would have to be when she was ready.

“Kel,” she paused, “I have a big favor to ask you.”

“Go ahead,” he encouraged her, wondering what was coming next.

“Well...” She took a deep breath and continued. “At the VFW meeting I was asked to be the representative for all the California chapters at the dedication of the Nurses War Memorial in Washington, D.C.”

“Hey! That’s great! Congratulations!” exclaimed Kel. “Where do I come in?”

Dixie bit her lip and continued. “Would you come with me?”

“Of course, I will,” he answered, not thinking twice about traveling across the country just because she asked him to.

Dixie gave him a huge smile, threw her arms around him and gave him a very happy kiss. “Oh! That’s great! Oh, thank you! There is the dedication at noon and then a dinner dance that evening. The chapter is picking up all the expenses. Oh, Kel, thank you! I love you!”

She hadn’t meant for it to slip out. She immediately lowered her eyes and bit her lip, wishing she could take it back, because she figured she just screwed up her happiness by scaring Kelly off.

He tipped her chin up so he could look in her eyes.

When she looked into those eyes, she saw that they were full of joy and love. He said three simple words: “I love you.” He watched with amusement as he saw the changes in emotion wash over her face as she digested the news. Her eyes widened as she realized what he said

“You . . . you love me?” she stammered.

“Yes, Dix, I love you.” He pulled her close and kissed her with all the passion that had been building up over the past two weeks.

Dixie responded with built up passion of her own. She thought to herself, “If this is a dream, please don’t let me wake up!”

Kel began nuzzling her neck while she ran her fingers through his dark wavy hair. “Mmmm, you feel so good,” she sighed.

With that Kelly looked in her eyes and asked quietly, “Dix, will you let me love you tonight?”

“Yes,” she whispered.

Kel didn’t know what a turning point this was for her. She took his hand and led him into her bedroom. They began slowly removing each other’s clothing, caressing and exploring as they went. Dixie’s mind was so full of giving and receiving pleasure from the man she loved that there was no room for the memories that terrified her. Kelly kept reminding himself to go slow and be gentle, wanting to make this night perfect for the woman he loved.

When they were resting in her bed, Kelly wrapped his arms around Dixie and sighed “Mmmmmm, this feels so right.” He kissed the top of her head as that was the closest thing he could reach.

“So right,” she echoed as she gently caressed the chest she had been admiring before. “Oh, Kel, thank you for giving me my life back, and for loving me enough that I can enjoy sex without being terrified. You slew a big dragon tonight, Dr. Galahad.”

“Penny for your thoughts,” he said, seeing she was far away with her thoughts.

“I just feel like the luckiest girl in the world, and I love having you love me.”

He maneuvered so her face was closer to his. “And I love loving you,” he said as his mouth found hers again.

“You know something, Doc?”

“What?” he asked as he pushed her hair away from her face.

“We are really going to have to watch it at work.”

“Yeah, I know,” he said as he continued to play with her hair. “The last thing we need is for the Rampart rumor machine to get cranked up.”

“Speaking of work,” she asked, “what time do you have to be there?”

“Not until tomorrow morning,” he answered.

Her eyes met his and she asked, “Will you stay?”

He stroked her cheek and said, “Oh, yeah. There is no place in the world I would rather be than here with you in my arms.”

“Me, too.” She soon fell asleep with her head on his chest, feeling safer than she had in a long time.

He was content watching her sleep and holding her, until he too soon fell asleep.

He naturally woke up early, partly from being in a strange bed and from having someone in bed with him. He checked her clock and saw he still had plenty of time to get home, grab a shower and some clean clothes and get to work. He kissed her awake and thought she was absolutely adorable just waking up. He made love to her again in the early morning. When he got out of bed he was thinking out loud, “Too bad I didn’t have a change of clothes in the car.”

Dixie teased him and said, “You can always wear scrubs for your shift again.”

“Not today, sweetheart. I have a board meeting at 1:00.”

“Can you stay for at least one cup of coffee?”

He looked at his watch and said, “Sure.”

“Okay, can you get it made while I grab a quick shower?”

He nodded, distracted by the idea of her in the shower.

He got the coffee made and had poured them each a cup when she emerged from the bathroom with an old fuzzy robe on. She took the cup from his hand and said, “Now this is something I could get used to, you having coffee ready for me in the morning.”

“That’s something I could get used to--you drinking my coffee in your fuzzy robe.” He grinned as he drank the coffee. He checked the time and said, “I’ve got to go, sweetheart.” He took a big final gulp of the coffee and headed for the door.

Dixie wrapped her arms around him for one final embrace. “Thanks, Kel” she murmured against his chest.

“For what?” he questioned.

“For giving me a wonderful day and an even better night.” And for giving me my life back too, she added silently.

“It was pretty wonderful,” he added as he kissed her. “I love you,” he smiled.

She smiled back. “I love you, too. Now, get out of here before you are late.”

“Okay, Okay! See you later,” he said as he left.

Dixie went to finish her coffee. She was, she reflected, the happiest she had been in years. She picked up the phone and dialed her mother on the ranch in Texas.

“Hi. Mom! Guess what? You are talking to the happiest person in the world!”

Barbara McCall smiled at the joy she heard in her daughter’s voice. “Hi, honey, what’s up?” the older woman asked.

“Oh, Mom, remember I told you I was starting a relationship?”

“Of course,” answered her mother.

“Well,” Dixie continued, “it has gotten a whole lot deeper and I couldn’t be happier.”

Barbara said, “Well, go on, tell me about this Prince Charming.”

“You won’t believe me, Mom.”

Barbara rolled her eyes and said, “Try me.” The suspense was driving her crazy.

“ It’s Kelly Brackett, Mom.”

Barbara’s eyes widened with surprise. “You mean Dr. Brackett, the head honcho in Emergency?”

“Yes,” Dixie answered.

“How did that happen?” her mother asked.

“We have been friends for so long, and then we went to a Dodger’s game and things started evolving. I guess it’s been building up for a long time. All I know is that he loves me and it is for real. And, Mom . . . he spent the night last night . . .”

Barbara grew concerned. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fantastic, Mom. No nightmares and a very enjoyable night. I’m so happy I just had to tell you!”

“Is he there now?”

Dixie laughed and said, “No. If he were I wouldn’t be on the phone telling you how I spent my night with him!”

Barbara laughed and said, “No, that wouldn’t be so good! Oh, honey, I’m so happy for you. It’s been so long since you sounded so good.”

Dixie answered, “I know, its been a longtime since I felt this good.”

“Honey, do you trust him?”

“Yes”

“Does he know?”

“Not yet.”

“Dixie, you know if this is going to work, you are going to have to confide in him. Do it as soon as you can.”

“I know, Mom. I just wanted to wait a little while longer so I know how firm a foundation we have. If I tell him now he may turn and walk the other way. I really don’t want to mess this up.”

Barbara said, “Please don’t wait too long.”

“Okay, Mom,” was the reply.

“Just be happy and be safe. Love you.”

“I love you too, Mom,” said Dixie as she hung up the phone.

Little did she know that in a short time Kel would know everything, no matter if she were ready or not.

Kelly and Dixie settled into a happy, comfortable routine. Kel found himself spending most evenings at Dixie’s, and spent as much time in her bed as he did his own. Dixie was the happiest she had ever been in her life. They were very careful at the hospital, trying not to give away the fact that they were so in love. Due to the nature of their jobs, when they were treating their patients, they had to be all business, and didn’t have a lot of time where they could give cause for any speculation. There was only one person who had an inkling of what was going on, and he was determined to find out what was going on with his two best friends.

Dixie talked Kelly into a shopping trip to find a dress to wear to the formal dance they were scheduled for when they made their trip to Washington, D.C. She found a beautiful dress and also talked Kelly into buying clothes for himself to keep at her place, some casual, and some dress slacks and shirts for work. Kel had to scramble to his place for clothes enough times that he didn’t fight her, and actually enjoyed her helping him pick out a wardrobe.

Not long after Dixie’s conversation with her mother, a package arrived for her from Texas. She found a beautiful, sexy nightgown with a card from her mother saying “Enjoy! Love, Mom.”

When she modeled it for Kel, his mouth fell open and said, “That’s from your mother?”

Dix laughed and said, “You just have to know Mom. That’s her way of saying she’s happy for me and approves.”

Kel grinned as he pulled her close. “That’s my kind of mom!”

One afternoon at Rampart, Kelly and Joe were in the lounge enjoying a break. Joe asked, “Well, how’s everything going with you, Kel?”

Kel took a sip of coffee and said, “Things are going pretty well, Joe, pretty well.”

Joe nodded and said, “You really seem to have it together. You are much more relaxed and happy than when you were that young upstart!”

Kelly nodded and said, “Yeah, I am.”

Joe figured now was his chance. “Does a certain nurse have any thing to do with the new and improved Kel Brackett?”

Kel blushed and took another sip of coffee, trying to act innocent. “What are you talking about?”

Joe grinned and said, “I’m right, aren’t I? You finally woke up and figured out that Dixie is just the girl for you. Come on and fess up to old Joe. Are you involved with Dix?”

Kel put his coffee down and grinned back at Joe. “I guess the secret’s out. Yeah, Joe, we’re ‘involved.’ She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Joe slapped Kel on the back and said, “Congratulations! It’s about time!”

“What do you mean?”

The older doctor answered, “I’ve been watching you two for a long time. It was obvious you belonged together, but you two had shut yourself off from the world. Now you are together and are very obviously pretty happy.”

Kel asked, “How obvious? We’ve tried so hard. Is the rumor mill grinding away?”

Joe shook his head. “No, I haven’t heard anything. I just know my two best friends. If I didn’t know you so well, I wouldn’t have guessed.”

Kel was visibly relieved at that. “Really, Joe?”

“Really, Kel. And don’t worry, your secret is safe with me.”

Kel smiled again and said, “Thanks, Joe.”

It was then that Kelly was paged to Treatment Room 2. The nurse on duty informed him it was a suspected broken leg. He went into the room and was surprised to see that the patient was television star Jerry Walters. It turned out that the actor had tried to do one of his own stunts and had broken his leg in the attempt. Kelly ordered a set of x-rays but was already certain the leg was broken.

Dixie brought him the x-rays, not paying attention to the name on the papers. She entered the treatment room and saw Jerry Walters. She paused and visibly paled when Jerry recognized her and said, “Dixie, is that you?”

Kel looked over at her and grew concerned with her reaction.

“Jerry,” was all that she said. She handed Kel the x-rays and he saw that her hand was shaking.

“Well, how are you, babe?” Jerry asked, oozing the charm that had made him a favorite on TV.

Dixie tried to smile, and said, “ I’m fine, Jerry, just fine.” She turned to Kel and asked if he needed anything else, her eyes pleading with him not to have her stay.

He said no, he could take it from here, all the time wondering why the star would cause such a reaction in Dixie.

The way the rest of the day went, he didn’t have a chance to discuss it with her until he was at her apartment that evening. “Dix,” he asked as she was snuggled beside him watching the Dodgers, “how do you know Jerry Walters?” He felt Dixie stiffen and take a deep breath.

“I used to date him,” she said quietly.

A warning flag went off in Kelly’s head. “Is he the one who hurt you so badly?”

She just nodded, trying to fight off the tears.

“Don’t worry, I won’t let him near you,” Kel said. He really wanted to find out all the details, but could see that she didn’t want to talk about it. He wrapped his arms around her and didn’t say anything, just giving her silent comfort.

When it was time for bed, Dixie was honest and said, “Kel, just hold me tonight, please?”

Kel was happy to oblige, but was wondering what was going on in her head.

In the middle of the night he was awakened by a scream and a sobbing Dixie, who was in the middle of what he could tell was a terrible nightmare.

“No, no! Jerry, stop, noooo!” she wailed.

Kel sat up and turned on the light, and tried to wake her up. When she felt his touch, she thrashed around and cried out again.

“Dix, wake up . . . Dix.” He grabbed her shoulders and gently shook them. “Dix, it’s a nightmare, sweetheart, come on, wake up.” She opened eyes that were clearly filled with terror. She tried to pull away. “Dix, it’s me. It’s Kel.”

At that, she realized she was awake and she said, “Kel?”

“I’m here, sweetheart.”

She threw herself into his arms and started to sob. She held on to him for dear life, and cried until there was nothing left. Kelly knew that this was no run-of-the-mill nightmare, and that he had to get her to talk about it.

He stroked her hair and quietly said, “This is about Jerry Walters, isn’t it?”

She knew the time had come, she was going to have to tell him. “Yes,” she said in barely more than a whisper.

Kel knew it was not going to be a pretty story. He looked into her eyes and said gently, “Tell me, sweetheart, please?”

“I met him through one of Kent’s friends. He was just starting out in television. He said he was attracted to me because I wasn’t in the business. I was flattered by that and we started to date. About 4 months into it he got his first series, a supporting role. He started spending more time at the studio and hanging out with the ‘Hollywood crowd.’ He turned from a nice guy into a total jerk whose ego was getting way out of control. He was working hard on the series, and the crowd he was running with introduced him to uppers to keep himself going. At first, I didn’t realize what was going on. When he was with me he was okay. Looking back, he very well could have been high then. I never ran with the crowd, and he started seeing me less and less. We pretty much had stopped seeing each other, and he got more involved with the drugs. One night he came to my place. I could see he was higher than a kite and told him to leave. Whatever he was on turned him mean. He burst into my place and told me he had told his buddies that he was screwing a nurse who could get them anything they wanted. I told him he was crazy and to get out.” She felt the tears start flowing again, but she continued. “When I refused to get him drugs, it infuriated him, and he started screaming about how important he was, and how dare I refuse him after he promised his friends. Then, he decided to show me who was boss.”

Kel felt a knot grow in his stomach, feeling her pain. “What happened?” he asked quietly.

She said the words she had tried so hard to forget. “He raped me, and then beat me up.”

Kel held her, feeling helpless. He let her continue.

“I did everything right, filed a police report, went to the hospital and saw a rape counselor. His agent tried to pay me off so I would keep my mouth shut and not ruin the career of the up and coming star. It didn’t work with me, but it must have worked somewhere, because I was told that they couldn’t pursue the case for lack of evidence. I couldn’t take it any more and went back home to Texas for a while to heal. It was there that I heard from Rampart and they offered me a job. I went back because I really wanted to work there, and I knew that I would be away from him, he didn’t know where I was. That’s why I was so remote. I’ve had the nightmares ever since. If I even thought about dating, they would start again. That’s how I knew you were so special. I haven’t had one since we started.” She paused and said, “That is, until tonight.”

“Thank you,” said Kel.

“For what?” she asked, confused.

“For trusting me enough to tell me stuff that you buried for so long. I love you, Dix, and I’m here for you.”

She gave a half smile and said, “It feels good to finally come clean. I really thought I was healed the first night you stayed and the only thing on my mind was you and not that jerk. Just seeing him today really shook me up. I guess that’s why the nightmare came back.” She lowered her head and said, “Mom said that I really had to tell you soon. I’m sorry it came out like this. I was trying to work up the courage, so I could tell you without scaring you off.”

He kissed the top of her head and said, “I don’t scare easily.”

“Good,” she said softly. “Know what? Telling you wasn’t as nearly bad as I thought it would be.”

He frowned and said, “You can tell me anything, Dix, you know that.”

She stroked his cheek and said, “I know, but I was afraid that you wouldn’t want someone with this much emotional baggage.”

“I want you, and whatever comes with you. You are the most important thing in the world to me. I love you.” He took her face in his hands and kissed her gently. “Dix,” he went on, searching for the right words. He wanted to encourage her, not lecture her. “I think you are healed. I think this nightmare was just from the shock of seeing that low-life face to face. You are a survivor. You came through the tour of duty and you got through this. Both horrible experiences made you into a better, stronger person. With all that you have been through, you are remarkably normal and healthy.” He smiled as he continued. “It took someone pretty special to get me to love again. I’m so glad it was you.”

“Thanks,” she said as she wrapped her arms around him and rested her head against his chest. She felt as if a huge burden had been lifted. “I’m feeling better already,” she said as she stifled a yawn. “Let’s go back to sleep”

Kel turned the light off and kissed the sleepy woman in his arms. He marveled at how quickly she fell asleep, knowing that the emotional stress had exhausted her. He wondered what the morning would bring.

When they woke the next morning, Dixie was in a very good mood. She explained to Kelly that she felt as if the weight of the world was lifted off her shoulders. She asked him if he had kept Jerry Walters overnight.

“Yeah,” he frowned, “why?”

“I think I can put this whole thing behind me if I can talk to him and tell him off.”

“Dix,” he cautioned, “are you sure that you want to do that?”

The more Dixie thought about it the more she was sure. “Yes,” she nodded.

“Do you want me to go with you?” he asked, really concerned about what she was planning to do.

“Thanks, Kel, but I think I have to do this myself.”

“ Okay, but I’m there if you need me.”

“Okay,” she answered.

Kel suddenly remembered what he had meant to tell her yesterday. “Oh, Dix?”

“Yeah?” she asked as she sipped her coffee.

“Our secret is out.”

She drew a deep breath. “Are we starring on the Rampart gossip sheet?”

Kel laughed and said, “Not yet. So far, it is only Joe, and he swore he wouldn’t let the cat out of the bag.”

“How does he know?” she asked

“He came flat out and asked me yesterday. He’s been suspicious for a while. He slapped me on the back and told me it was about time! Just be prepared if he says something like that to you.”

Dixie laughed. “Thanks for the warning.”

Kel said, “ I guess it wasn’t fair to keep him in the dark like that. He was very happy about it. I’m glad it is finally out in the open.”

Dix nodded and said, “We really have been ignoring him. Let’s either invite him here or take him out.”

Kel said, “That’s a good idea. How about here for a ball game?”

She smiled and said, “Perfect. Will you set it up?”

“Yeah,” he agreed.

When Kel drove to the hospital he reflected on the past 24 hours. He really was glad to share his secret with Joe. He was hoping Dixie really did feel good, that she wasn’t just putting on a front for him. He had meant what he said about her being healed. Time would tell the next time they got “in the mood,” if she stayed the same eager, sexy woman he knew so well or if she got shy and scared. He was crossing his fingers that the nightmares would stop and she would be unaffected by that SOB Jerry Walters showing up. He was still concerned about her going to see him. One good thing was that Jerry couldn’t get near Dixie with that broken leg. If he does any thing to hurt Dix, I’ll kill him myself, Kel thought to himself.

About mid-morning Dixie found time and went to see Jerry. She had an odd sense of calm about it. She knocked and heard him say, “Come in.” When he saw it was Dixie he gave the lopsided grin that he was famous for. “Hey, Dix, good to see you. I was hoping you would stop by. How are you?”

Dixie crossed her arms and reminded herself to stay calm and pleasant. “I’m better than I have ever been in my life Jerry.”

“Hey, that’s great!” the actor said. “I’m doing great, myself--at least, I was until I busted this leg. Pretty stupid, trying to do my own stunts.” He looked at the beautiful nurse standing there. “Uh, Dixie . . . I want you to know how bad I have felt over the years for what happened. I know you can never forgive me. It was inexcusable, I know that. I also want you to know that I kicked the drugs. It was soon after that night. Once I realized what I had done, I knew I couldn’t handle it. I’m also sorry for how Arnie handled things. I fired him once I got my act cleaned up. Please believe me, I am so sorry.”

Dixie listened to the man and took a deep breath. “For your sake, I hope you kicked the drugs. You sound like the Jerry I first met, not the monster I knew later. You nearly destroyed me that night, but I survived. It took a long time to get over it, but I did. I know it was the drugs, but that didn’t make it any easier.”

The actor looked down, totally ashamed. “I know, Dix. I can’t believe I was capable of it. I never meant to hurt you.”

Dixie looked at him and said, “You did hurt me, more than you can imagine. Fear and lack of trust can destroy you if you let it. Luckily, I hung on. I’m not afraid anymore, and I can trust people again.”

Jerry said, “I’m glad to hear it. Did you ever find Mr. Right?”

Dixie nodded and said, “Yes, I did. He has made me happier than I have ever been in my life. I never knew how wonderful it could be when you are with someone who really loves you and you really love with all your heart. We are very happy.”

As Dixie was talking, Kelly happened to come in on his regular rounds. He was deep in thought trying to remember to keep calm and not let his personal feelings toward Jerry Walters interfere with the professional care he had to provide for him. He didn’t mean to interrupt them, and he didn’t know that Dix had picked now to come in. When he saw her, he said, “I’m sorry, Dix, I didn’t know you were here.”

He turned to leave when she said, “It’s okay, Kel, go ahead. Everything’s okay.”

He caught the meaning of what she was saying.

As Kel examined Jerry’s leg, Jerry was interested in how Dixie reacted to Kel. He knew what she looked like when she was in love and correctly guessed that Kel was “Mr. Right.” Kelly told him he would be released the following day. Jerry’s face once again showed his famous grin. “Thanks, Doc . . . and, hey, congratulations.”

Kelly looked at him with puzzlement. “For what?”

“For being the lucky guy that Dixie loves so much.”

Kel looked at Dix.

“I didn’t say a word. Jerry, what makes you think that?” Dixie asked.

Jerry gave a simple answer. “Because you used to look at me that way.” He paused and then looked at Kelly. “Give her all the happiness she deserves, Doc. She’s the best.”

Kel nodded as he was leaving the room. “Yes, she is the best, and I fully intend to make her as happy as I can.”

Dixie was also ready to leave. She was pleased with the talk. She had no fury to release on the man like she had imagined. She felt a great sense of closure. “I have to go back to work. Goodbye, Jerry. Good luck,” she said as she closed the door.

She didn’t know it, but Jerry Walters was feeling relief and a sense of closure, too. He had almost fainted when he had seen her in the treatment room after all those years. He had been totally honest with her, and was glad that he was able to apologize for the terrible things he had done to her. He was glad that she was happy and made a mental note to make a sizable donation to the rape crisis center at Rampart.

Kel couldn’t help himself, he had to wait in the hall to be sure she was all right. When she came out of the room he looked into her eyes, trying to get a reading on what happened. Her eyes were clear and had the sparkle. “How did it go?” he asked.

“Better than I thought. I stayed calm and Jerry apologized. He said he kicked the drugs and fired his scumbag manager soon after it happened. He sounded like the old Jerry, the one I first knew. I believe he was sincere. It helped knowing that he knew what a monster he was. I’m okay, I really think it’s over.”

She smiled her special smile at him, and at that moment he was convinced that she really believed it. The head doctor of emergency looked both ways, saw the hallway was clear and pulled his head nurse close. He kissed her and said, “Congratulations, sweetheart, I know that was hard to do.”

“Thanks. I couldn’t have done it with out you,” she whispered.

He let her go and they headed to the elevator.

When Dixie headed back to the nursing station she was surprised to find a bouquet of a dozen red roses with her name on it. Joe had discreetly intercepted the card, as Kel had asked him to, just in case any nosy nurses took it upon themselves to see who would send Dixie flowers. Joe saw the pair get off the elevator and quickly slipped the card back into place. Kelly headed off to talk with Joe and Dixie approached the station. One of her fellow nurses, Carol Andrews, was also at the station.

She gushed to Dixie, “Look at this, Dix!”

Dixie nodded and said, “Very pretty, who are they for?” She figured they were for a patient--flowers were often delivered to the station.

Carol exclaimed, “Dixie, they’re for you!”

Dixie was taken by surprise and said, “Who would send me flowers?” She hoped they weren’t from Jerry-he didn’t know if she could take that.

By this time Carol was full of curiosity. “There’s only one way to find out . . .open the card!”

Kelly and Joe were standing off to the side watching the whole thing, pretending that they were looking at a patient’s chart. Dixie opened the card, and her mouth dropped open with surprise. She saw the card was imprinted with the words “I Love You,” but it was signed with Kel’s initial. She would recognize it anywhere. Over the years she had seen it a thousand times on the charts he signed.

“Oh, my gosh!” was all she said as she tried to hide the sentimental tears threatening to let loose.

She slipped the card in her pocket as Carol said, “Well? Well? Who are they from?”

Dixie fibbed. “My brother--he apologizes for missing my birthday.”

Just then Joe came and asked Carol to set up one of the treatment rooms. As Carol left, Dixie looked up at Kelly and mouthed, “Thank you.”

He grinned and winked as he turned to enter his office.

Dixie gave him a few minutes and then knocked on the door. When she went in and closed it, she wrapped her arms around the man with total love glowing from his eyes.

“Thank you,” she said as she kissed him. “Why today?”

He answered, “I didn’t know how your encounter with Jerry was going to go, and I wanted you to have a bright spot in your day.”

“Well, you certainly made my day! Do you have any idea how much I love you?”

He replied, “I can only hope it is as much as I love you.” He kissed her one last time and then said, “Back to work.”

She nodded as she gave his face a lipstick check. “We’ll continue at home,” she said suggestively as she left his office.

The head doctor knew that tone of voice and knew he was in for a night of pleasure. He hoped the next few hours would go quickly.

When Dixie greeted him wearing the nightgown from her mother, he knew she was going to be fine.

The time came for them to make the trip to Washington for the dedication of the nurses’ memorial. They took a few extra days and paid a visit to Dixie’s parents at the ranch in Texas. Kelly immediately became one of the family and was welcomed with open arms. He felt completely at ease with her parents, as they did around him.

They continued their trip and arrived in Washington the night before the ceremony. Dixie would carry the California state flag, and 49 of her fellow nurse/veterans would each carry one from each other state.

The ceremony was a very moving experience for those attending. Kelly looked on with pride as Dixie stood at attention in her uniform. She wasn’t the only one with tears streaming down her face as the memorial was dedicated.

The Vice President of the United States said, “We dedicate this to the memory of all the nurses who gave their lives while serving this great country of ours. While their contributions often were unnoticed, they served a very important function, taking care of the sick and wounded soldiers fighting for all of us. We take this time to remember those who didn’t come home and to honor and say thank you to the nurses who served and did come home, many of whom are here with us today. I am proud to represent the whole nation and say thank you for a job well done.”

The ceremony was over and the crowd dispersed. Kelly and Dixie walked over to the nearby Vietnam War Memorial. They looked at the names in silent respect. Kel began searching for a name. Finally he found it and traced his fingers around the letters MICHAEL JOSEPH BRACKETT. He stood quietly with his head bowed and wiped a tear from his eye. Dixie slipped her arm around his waist and stood with him.

After a moment he composed himself and they moved on. Dixie quietly asked, “Who was Michael?”

“My older brother,” Kel responded with a catch in his voice.

“Oh, Kel, I didn’t know. I’m so sorry,” she said, knowing the pain he was feeling.

“I’ll tell you about him sometime,” Kelly said, his emotions running too high to be able to talk about his brother. “

“Okay,” Dix answered, fully understanding. They went back to the hotel in silence.

They both took a nap when they got back. It was time to start getting ready for the gala dinner dance. The coordinating committee stressed it was a celebration of the nurses who had been honored during the ceremony. Dixie had spent a long time in the bathroom getting her hair and makeup just right. Kelly had changed into his tuxedo and was adjusting the bow tie when she finally came out.

“Wow!” was all he could say.

She turned around and asked him to help her with the zipper. When he got the zipper up, she turned and modeled the dress, letting him get the full effect.

“You are, without a doubt, the most beautiful veteran the army has ever seen!”

She smiled and said, “Thank you.” She approached him and put her arms around his neck. She started running her fingers through the thick wavy hair that she loved to play with. “You are looking mighty fine yourself, Doc.”

He grinned as he said, “If you keep that up, we’ll never get to the dance.”

Kelly looked Dixie up and down and frowned. “You look great, sweetheart, but something is missing.”

Dixie was surprised, and checked to see if she had forgotten anything. She checked to be sure she had remembered her earrings and necklace. “What are you talking about?” she asked, totally confused.

Kelly reached in his pocket and took her hand. “This hand is empty. Maybe I can fix it,” he said as he slipped a diamond ring on her hand.

Dixie looked at the ring and then at him in shock. “Kel...”

“Dix, will you marry me?” Kelly Brackett held his breath as he waited for her response.

She looked in to those deep blue eyes she loved so much and nodded. “Yes, Kel, yes, yes, yes!” She threw her arms around him and at the same time they said, “I love you.”

They went downstairs to the ballroom. It was evident to everyone in the room that the couple from California were very much in love. While they were enjoying a slow dance, Dixie rested her head against Kelly’s chest. She had never been happier in her life.

Kelly was having similar thoughts of his own. “Penny for you thoughts,” he whispered in her ear.

She grinned and said, “Thank God for Tom Dixon getting indigestion and giving you Dodger tickets!”

He smiled back and said, “My thoughts exactly,” as he gave her a lingering kiss. “I love you,” he said.

She smiled “I love you, too.”