AllFreeNovel
Share Us
"Got it," Calla said, nodding her head confidently. "I'm sure I can whip these files into shape in no time."
"Is that so? You think you're better than my previous assistant?" I teased with a smirk. "And by that, I mean me. I was not good at keeping up with my own patient files. Everything is here, but not in the right place. They are filed under the right patient, but the structure is not yet in place."
"No problem. I'll figure it out. Let's just say I don't like messes, either in real life or digitally," she retorted playfully, her eyes glinting with mischief. "And from what I've seen so far, I might have my work cut out for me. Doctors are notorious for their handwriting, and from what you're saying about your filing practices, your files might be in the same shape."
"Ouch!" I exclaimed, feigning offense. "Well, I guess we'll see how you handle the chaos."
"Challenge accepted, Dr. Harrington," she replied confidently, grinning from ear to ear.
I reached over to grab the mouse just as she did and our hands accidentally brushed against each other, sending a jolt of electricity through me. I could tell she felt it too, as her eyes widened slightly, but she quickly masked her surprise with another witty remark.
"Wow, you must really want to help me with these files, huh?" she quipped, raising an eyebrow.
"Uh, yeah, just trying to be supportive," I stammered, mentally scolding myself for losing my cool. Damn, the attraction between us was undeniable, and it was becoming increasingly difficult not to act on it.
As we continued working together, there were more instances of lingering eye contact and subtle physical contact, our knees touching under the desk or her hand brushing mine as we looked through the digital structure of the office. I had to laugh when I thought about my conversation with Austin because, at the moment, I definitely did not have Flopitis. In fact, being this close was making it nearly impossible to concentrate on anything else. Damn it. Why did men have to have two heads where one goes out the window when the other is active?
"Okay, last one for today," Calla announced, clicking around the final patient file. "See? I told you I could handle it."
"Color me impressed, Ms. Rosewood," I said, leaning back in my chair with a grin. "You certainly know how to make order out of chaos."
"Maybe I should add that to my resume," she mused, her eyes meeting mine with a flirtatious twinkle. "Think it'll help me land a better job?"
"Better than working here with me?" I asked, feigning hurt. "I'm not sure there's such a thing."
"Careful, Dr. Harrington," Calla warned playfully. "Your ego might just burst through the roof."
"Alright, alright," I conceded with a chuckle. "But seriously, great job today, Calla. You've already made a huge difference around here."
"Thank you," she said, her eyes softening as she smiled warmly at me. It was in that moment that I knew maintaining a professional distance from Calla would be one of the most challenging tasks I'd ever faced. But for the sake of our careers and the medical center, I had to try. No matter how damn difficult it seemed.
"Okay, back to business," I said, forcing my gaze away from Calla's captivating eyes and attempting to shift the mood back to a more professional tone. As much as I enjoyed our banter, I couldn't let myself be distracted by her charm and undeniable allure.
"Right," Calla agreed, her cheeks flushing slightly as she too seemed to recognize the need for boundaries. "So, what's next on the agenda?"
"Next, we'll go over some of the upcoming events and conferences related to our field," I explained, pulling up a calendar filled with dates and details. "It's important that we stay updated on the latest research and advancements in neurology and we will be looking to you to provide suggestions for us over the coming two years."
"Of course," Calla nodded, her expression serious as she took note of each event. "I'm looking forward to learning more about the field and making connections within the industry."
"Good," I said firmly, appreciating her dedication to the job. "You'll be a great ambassador for our clinic. We're all looking forward to sending you out there instead of our own crusty selves. And, believe me, the world is going to thank us."
Calla went silent and looked at the floor. "I'm sorry," I said. "Did I say something wrong?"
"No, no. It's ok. I just want to make sure I'm taken seriously. Not just another pretty face."
"Well, I'm sorry, but you're gorgeous and that's what people will see first. If I may give you some advice…"
"Yes, please."
"I advise you to not make it into an issue for yourself and accept that your looks are your advantage right now. Humans can't help but judge a book by its cover, so if your looks get you in the door, use it. You will not disappoint. You're smart and contribute a lot. Your skills and talents will give you sustainability and your true reputation in this life. Looks fade, but your abilities will be your legacy."
She sat and pondered my words.
"Thank you, Dominic. I appreciate your candor." She somehow didn't seem fully convinced. "I just don't want to be seen as the pretty one that doesn't get the great assignments because I'm probably stupid."
"Just let your work speak for itself. Believe me, from what I've seen today, you will do just fine. Just keep your chin up."
She looked at me and smiled. Oh, that gorgeous smile.
