Could I stand beside names like theirs?
I straightened my shoulders.
I wasn’t here by accident.
I was here because I earned it.
Chapter Forty-one
RONAN
Present Day
NEW YORK CITY
Isat at my desk, surrounded by a sea of medical charts for Ms. Leann. We’d tried everything—higher dosages, new medications, radiation—but nothing seemed to be improving her condition. I ran a hand through my hair and let out a sigh of frustration.
“Ready to head out, sir?” I looked up to see Rachel standing in the doorway.
I glanced up, managing a faint smile. “Yeah, wrapping things up here.”
“Are you doing okay?” she asked gently, stepping closer. “Youseem off today.”
I hesitated, my gaze drifting to the window as I struggled to articulate the weight on my mind. “I’m fine. Let’s go.”
I left the documents behind, and we made our way out the door. Earlier this week, Rachel had mentioned an Eminence event we’d been invited to. I hadn’t planned on attending, but I knew Nina would be there, and I jumped at every opportunity to see her.
Since I brought dinner to her days ago, I hadn’t seen much of her.
I tried to push the lingering thoughts about Nina aside as we made our way to the event. The evening wore on as we arrived at the party, the elegant venue buzzing with laughter and the tinkling of glasses at the Plaza Hotel. I navigated through the crowd, mingling with familiar faces and greeting acquaintances along the way.
Suddenly, a flash caught me off guard—a photographer snapping a picture of me entering the venue.
“Dr. Romano,” one of them began, her tone intrigued. “What sparked the sudden interest in fashion? You’re well-known for your medical expertise and business acumen.”
I chuckled softly, the question not entirely unexpected. “Fashion,” I replied with a thoughtful smile, “is a wonder of the world in its own right. It’s about expression, creativity, and the power to inspire.”
Before the conversation could delve further, a greeting at the entrance drew my attention.
Nina.
There she was, her presence magnetic, her smile radiant. She wore a midnight blue gown that flowed elegantly to the floor, the sheer sleeves adding a touch of grace.
Beside her stood a man—a stranger to me—who seemed to share in her laughter and easy charm.
My heart sank momentarily as I watched them, the pang of jealousy and longing catching me off guard.
Who the fuck was that?
My discomfort was evident, and I swiftly started making my way over to her.
As if she were a barrier, Julia, an Eminence representative I’m acquainted with, stopped me.
“Dr. Romano, it’s so lovely to see you here. We can’t thank you enough for your sponsorship and overwhelming donations.”
I sighed and grabbed a glass of champagne from a waiter passing by, “It’s my pleasure. If you’d excuse me,” I said, my gaze directed to Nina once more.
“You see her too?” Julia asked.
