“I don’t have all the details. They just said there are concerns about his medical practices that need to be reviewed.” I hate that I’m lying, but Barrett was clear—I can’t tell her about the evidence yet. “The investigation is going to cover both complaints. His against you, and whatever they’re looking into with him.”
“How long?”
“Week or two. They’ll want to interview you when you’re back from leave. Review all your documentation.” I pull her against my chest. “But Marnie, Barrett said your medical decisions were sound. You followed protocol. The relationship isn’t a policy violation.”
She’s shaking now. “But there’s still an investigation.”
“HR has to do it properly. But Barrett said you’re going to be fine.”
“How can he know that?”
Because I gave him evidence that will destroy Winters’ career. Because I’ve been building this case for weeks and the medical records speak for themselves. Because I made sure Winters couldn’t touch you.
But I can’t say any of that.
“Because you’re the best PT this team has ever had and everyone knows it,” I say instead.
“What happens now?” she asks quietly.
“Now you focus on getting through the next week. HR will reach out when they’re ready to interview you. Until then, you’re on bereavement leave. You don’t have to think about any of this.”
“How can I not think about it? Winters is trying to destroy my career.”
“And he’s going to fail.” I tilt her chin up so she’s looking at me. “Trust me. This is going to be okay.”
She searches my face, trying to find the truth in my words. Trying to figure out what I’m not saying.
“You sound very confident about that.”
“I am confident. Your work speaks for itself.”
“But how did Winters end up on leave so fast? HR investigations usually take time. They don’t just put someone on administrative leave immediately unless—” She stops. “Unless there’s evidence of something serious.”
My stomach drops.
“Marnie—”
“What evidence, Roman?” Her voice is quiet but sharp. “What aren’t you telling me?”
I could lie. Could deflect. Could tell her I don’t know any more than she does.
But I’m tired of lying to her. Tired of making decisions for her. Tired of pretending I’m protecting her when I’m really just not trusting her to handle things herself.
“I gave Barrett documents,” I say. “Against Winters. Medical records from former players showing a pattern of negligence.”
“What players?”
“Ones he rushed back too early. All developed complications.” I watch her face carefully. “I compiled everything—medical records, testimony, timeline analysis. Gave it to Barrett last week. Told him to keep it ready in case Winters made a move.”
“You’ve been investigating Winters.” Not a question. Her voiceis flat.
“Building a case, yes.”
“For how long?”
“Since November.”
She pulls away from me, stands up. “Since November. You’ve been investigating my boss since November and you didn’t tell me.”
