AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Yes. His blatant use of illicit drugs, providing alcohol to a minor, and inappropriate dealings with a…goat has given us no other choice but to strip him of the award and title.”
I raise a brow. A goat? And I thought I had issues. “So what now?”
“The medical board has decided, to save face, we will pretend the first event never took place. We’re organizing a redo.”
How typical.
“And besides, who doesn’t like dressing up and having a drink or two with colleagues?”
Indeed.
I still have no idea why he’s telling me this, so I play along. “Well, that’s great news. If I can be of any assistance, please let me know.”
Sipping his dishwater, he replies, “Actually, you can. That’s why I’m here.”
I lean forward, indicating I’m listening.
“I would like to nominate you as a candidate for the award.”
“Really?” I conceal my excitement because surely there’s a catch.
He nods, his jaw firm. “Yes. I find your methods quite ingenious. You remind me of me at your age. I really think you’rein with a good chance of winning. Your research has been unlike any of its kind. I was going to nominate you for next year’s award; however, with this opportunity arising, I couldn’t resist. You’ll be up against five other doctors.”
I stay silent, unsure of what to say. I can’t detect a hidden undertone, and Chad looks rather sincere. This is un-fucking-believable.
When Chad initially came to me with the suggestion of possibly nominating me for next year’s award, I was beyond appreciative, but now, I’m ecstatic. This is everything I’ve ever wanted and more. I feel no sympathy for Dr. Gold because his lewdness has just scored me my golden ticket.
“Thank you, Chad.”
“The pleasure is all mine, Dixon. I’ll be in touch once a date has been set. In the meantime, please keep your nose clean. Our industry doesn’t need any more bad press.”
I try to mask my tension. “Clean as a whistle,” I reply, hoping he doesn’t read my bullshit. Yes, my personal dealings don’t involve goats, but they do involve a bitch. If anyone got wind of my immoral actions, I’d be ruined. My thoughts wander to how imperative it is now to keep Juliet’s silence.
Chad’s cell ringing gives me the breathing space I need. He apologizes before answering it. “Oh, darling, I’m just with Dixon. Can I call you back?”
It’s like the universe is taunting me with what can be taken away from me in a blink of an eye because his “darling” is just another nail in my coffin.
He wraps up the conversation and stands. “I’d best be off. I’ll speak to you soon.”
Shaking hands, I try to remain composed. “Most certainly. Thank you again, Chad. This is truly an honor.”
“Not a problem. We should catch up for drinks one evening. I’m sure Rebecca would love to see your lovely other half again.”
Yes, I’m sure she would. “Sounds delightful. I’ll check my schedule and get back to you.”
“Splendid.” With that, he exits my office, and I let out a pent-up breath of relief.
This is the best news a doctor could ever receive. The things winning this award could do for my career are mindboggling, but with my dirty little secrets looming over my head, winning this award could also ruin my career. Or more accurately,Julietcould ruin my career. I can pretend all I want that her spilling the beans about my immorality to the board means nothing to me, but being presented this life-changing option just cements that it does.
Opening my desk drawer, I pull out the letter to Madison. This is the first step to claiming back my life. As I address the envelope to her, I realize the second step has my hand wavering. The step which was inevitable from the day I met Ms. Juliet Harte.
Giving my letter of hope one last look, I place it in the mailbox. My fate is now in Madison’s hands. However, the huge apartment block looming behind me reminds me that my fate is also in somebody else’s hands.
Earlier today, I did something I thought I’d never do again—I texted Juliet. The message was simple enough.
We need to talk.
Her response,Come over at 7.
