Have Gown, Need Groom by Rita Herron Page A

would linger for months.
    Striving for courage, she raised her hand and knocked. Dr. Porter’s curt voice invited her inside. Seconds later, she took a seat in a wing chair facing the chief of staff. Seth’s parents situated themselves on the adjacent navy loveseat. To her surprise, Seth stood on the far side, leaning against the wall, looking grim.
    “You’re probably wondering why I asked you join us,” Dr. Porter said.
    “I think I have an idea,” Hannah said, deciding to take a direct route. At six-three, the elderly gray-haired Dr. Porter was impressive and intimidating, not only because of his size, but because he had practiced medicine himself for years, had a reputation as a renowned surgeon, and contributed regularly to a major medical research journal. When his wife had died the year before, he’d left a prominent Boston facility to manage this small-town hospital, saying he needed less pressure.
    Hannah certainly hadn’t helped his situation any.
    Seth’s mother, an attractive brunette in her early fifties, stared blankly at her while her husband’s scowl reflected his displeasure.
    “I know I owe you all an apology,” Hannah said, praying she sounded sincere. “I’m sorry if I embarrassed the hospital by my actions. And I’m really sorry for the way I handled things yesterday with Seth.” She gave Seth a wary smile.
    Seth nodded, his gaze oddly understanding.
    Seth’s mother’s mouth tightened into a thin line. His father arched a bushy brow.
    She directed her gaze at his parents. “I never meant to hurt Seth, I hope you two believe that. Seth is really a wonderful guy.”
    “And an important part of the hospital,” Dr. Porter pointed out.
    “Yes,” Hannah said, hearing the unspoken message, More important than a young resident. “He’s very well respected here and I still would like to think of him as a friend. I honestly believe that I did the right thing, though, by canceling the wedding. I think one day Seth will agree.”
    His arched brow said he wasn’t sure, but he was contemplating what she’d said.
    “You couldn’t have told my son this before his wedding day?” Mrs. Broadhurst asked with disapproval.
    “Or maybe like your father, you simply enjoy public displays?” Mr. Broadhurst snapped.
    Hannah winced at the comment about her father, half wanting to defend him, the other half wanting to scream that she hated public displays. Surprisingly, Seth spoke, saving her from commenting.
    “Mother, Dad, that’s enough,” Seth said. “What happened between Hannah and myself is our business. Not yours.”
    Mrs. Broadhurst bristled while Mr. Broadhurst’s nostrils flared.
    Hannah searched for a plausible, rational approach to winning their understanding, but she couldn’t think of one. She remembered the crazy dream, the legend—no, she could not tell them about the legend. They would think she’d lost her mind.
    Which, of course, she was beginning to think also. Especially considering how composed and levelheaded Seth appeared in the aftermath of their canceled wedding.
    Dr. Porter folded his hands on his desk and cleared his throat, cutting off her thoughts. “That brings me to the reason I asked you all to meet here. The personal lives of my staff are really of no consequence to me, Dr. Hartwell, except where their behavior affects the ethical code and the respect of other professionals. I must admit I’ve heard some gossip about you in the halls, and I’ve seen the newspaper photos.”
    “I’m sorry, Dr. Porter. I had no idea the reporters would mention the hospital.”
    “I’m concerned that this debacle might affect both your working relationships and the morale at the hospital.”
    Hannah chewed on her bottom lip. “I can assure you that I’ll remain professional. I know I can work with Seth…” The Broadhursts shot her a stern look, “…um, with Dr. Broadhurst.”
    “I certainly have no problem with Dr. Hartwell,” Seth said amicably.
    Dr. Porter stood