“Mr. Butler canceled his appointment.”
It was my turn to frown. Trip’s progress was impressive. His athletic build allowed him to heal faster than most, and watching his body return to its top physical state was fascinating.
“Am I still treating Mr. Butler?”
Dr. Bert tapped his fingers faster on his desk, showing his frustration. “Mr. Butler called this morning and spoke with me. He explained you two were friends and the tabloid article was incorrect in its account of the two of you having an illicit affair. He asked that you not be reprimanded, as it was his fault you were put in the position you were in. He also requested you continue to oversee his treatment.”
My jaw twitched as I clenched it harder. Trip had already called and vouched for me and my professionalism. Yet Dr. Bert still felt it was necessary to lecture me. I needed to get out of his office immediately before I burned a bridge I didn’t need to burn.
“Thank you for allowing me to continue treating him. His healing process is motivating. I would have felt deprived if I wasn’t able to see him through his complete recovery. If you would excuse me, I’m sure my first patient’s waiting for me.”
I didn’t wait for Dr. Bert to excuse me. I shot out of my seat, forcing myself not sprint to the office door.
“McKenna,” Dr. Bert’s voice rang out just as I reached the handle.
I closed my eyes but didn’t turn to face him.
“You’re a good girl. You always make the right decisions. I’m hoping you continue down that path.”
I opened my eyes and nodded, rushing out into the hallway, taking deep gulps of air, needing to get rid of the burning pit in my stomach. Jessica watched me with her tiny little smirk still in place. Her smirk was enough to sober me. I smiled back at her as I walked toward my first patient’s room with my head held high.
“Aunt Kenna, we have Chinese food.” Norah beamed when I walked into the apartment.
Seeing her smiling little face almost brought me to my knees. Renee and Norah had been staying at Brian’s more and more lately. Having her in front of me after an extremely trying day made all my troubles disappear.
“Squish, that’s the best news I’ve heard all day.”
I reached down and settled her on my hip, pushing my nose into her hair and breathing in her baby scent.
“Momma said you had a rough day. We got pie too.”
“My saviors.” I tickled Norah until she squealed, laughing right along with her.
Renee came into the living room, her wet hair pulled into a bun on the top of her head, dressed in sweats and a hoodie.
“Hey, Kenna. How are you holding up?” She hugged me and I held on to her tightly.
“Better now that I’m home. I miss you guys.”
“I know. I’m sorry I abandoned you. With the new work space I have in Brian’s garage I’ve taken on so many orders. I think I may have taken on too much.”
“I’m proud of you. Just don’t forget me when you’re rich and famous.”
“Never. Are you hungry? I thought we could stuff ourselves, and watch a ton of mindless TV.”
“You’ve just described my perfect night.”
We scarfed down Chinese food and pie while Norah painted our toenails and most of our toes. I felt more relaxed than I had in a long time.
My phone rang and I decided to ignore it. Unfortunately that was impossible with Norah around.
“It’s Grandma.”
I exhaled the breath I was holding. I texted Trip and let him know I was having an impromptu girls night, and I would talk to him later. When my phone rang he was the first person I thought of.
“Hey, Mom.”
“Don’t hey Mom me. I’ve been patient, McKenna Raine, but my patience has been exhausted. Why haven’t you called me?”
