The remainder of the afternoon was reserved for house calls, which Jace squeezed into his schedule two days a week. As had become their ritual, Maddie set up a tray of coffee, then headed to the parlor where they would enjoy a break before Jace set off in his buggy. These brief respites were the best part of her day. Over coffee, Jace would assign her tasks, report on the status of supplies to be ordered, and discuss his schedule. When new patients summoned him, she’d offer Jace driving directions and insight into what to expect when he arrived, anything that might aid in his house calls. She walked down the hall, slowing her pace as she glanced into the small alcove that served as an office. In the lull of his hectic afternoon, Jace sat, hunched over his desk, scribbling notes in patient files and attending to paperwork. Muted lamplight draped his wide shoulders and tense profile as he worked. The sight of him filled her with admiration.
