AllFreeNovel
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“I have two. I’m the oldest. They’re both in college right now. One was local and one wasn’t, but the one who was away transferred back here this year. She felt like she needed to be closer to home.”
“You’re lucky to have a support system. I don’t have siblings, so it was just me and my father. I think that’s why I ended up staying in Southern California for so long. Moving here is the first time I’ve ever lived away from my hometown. He was the one who encouraged me to try something new.”
We’re still holding hands, a little lost in the moment, when Dr. Waters barges through the door. He takes quick notice of our merged hands. We immediately break them apart. “Am I interrupting something?”
Brody stands. “Not at all Greg. I was just congratulating Ms. Lawrence on winning the surgical contest in our class. It was quite impressive.”
“I bet it was.” He says that with a tone I don’t recognize.
I quickly wipe my eyes as I get up to leave. “Thank you, Dr. Cooper. I learned a lot from the fusion exercise. I look forward to the next competition.”
Dr. Waters stops me before I can exit. “Actually, Ms. Lawrence, can you come with me to my office? I have a few opportunities to discuss with you.”
Brody looks bothered. “I’m sure you can talk to her here, Greg. I don’t mind at all.”
“No, that’s not necessary. My office is best.” I have no clue what opportunities he’s talking about, but I guess I have to follow him.
We walk down the hallway and enter his office. He closes and locks the door. Instead of sitting behind his desk, he sits down right next to me.
Something bad is about to happen. I know it. Before I can say anything, he speaks. “So, Ms. Lawrence. How’s neuro going for you this year? I was sad when I learned that you weren’t going to be in my class again.”
“It’s going really well. I’m learning so much. I like the practical approach. Having a top spinal surgeon in the country makes it particularly exciting.”
He smirks at me. “Is that the only reason it’s exciting?”
“I don’t know what you mean.”
“Sure you do. I saw you and Dr. Cooper embracing. Perhaps you’ve found another way to earn those good grades.”
“Excuse me Dr. Waters, but that’s insulting. My grades at this school are perfect because I study hard. I have no need for any of that behavior, nor would I ever engage in it.”
He reaches over and grabs my inner thigh hard. I try to pull away but he’s too strong. “You know I can help you get any residency you want.” I don’t bother to respond.
He uses his other hand to grab my chin. He roughly tilts it to him, as he moves his eyes up and down my body. “You’re the hottest woman I’ve ever seen.”
He rubs my bottom lip with his thumb. Unlike Brody’s touch, his makes my stomach turn. “Your lips are so full. You know they could really help you secure that residency.” I have tears welling in my eyes again, but this time for a different reason.
I manage to croak out, “No thank you.” He’s about to speak again when there’s a loud banging at the door.
I hear Brody. “Greg, it’s time for the faculty meeting. Let’s get going.” He loosens his grip enough for me to get free and run to the door. I unlock and open it. Brody’s eyes widen when he sees the tears in my eyes. I run down the hall to get away from them both. I go into the bathroom, slide down the wall and start to sob.
I’m crying for a few minutes when I receive a text.
Brody: Are you okay? What did he do?
Me: He did what all men do to me. Think that I’m easy. Think that I’ll do anything to get ahead.
Brody: I’m so sorry he did that. I never should’ve let you go with him. I didn’t know how to get you out of it without sounding suspicious.
Me: Do you now understand why I can’t ever date you? Everyone will assume you’ve given me good grades or special treatment because I’m giving you what Dr. Waters wanted from me.
Brody: I get it. Do you want me to report him?
Me: No, because then I’ll always be ‘that girl’. No one will see anything else I’ve ever done.
Brody: I’m sorry Harley. I really am.
Me: I know you are. Silver lining. I think I’ll be staying in your class next semester. I’d rather take my chances there.
