“We understand that, Neil,” Sheila responds, causing me to turn to her.
I nod at the understanding I see in her eyes.
“With that said, we shouldn’t kid ourselves on the matter, either,” Larry starts, and it takes my all not to give him a thunderous glare that wells up inside of me. I don’t appreciate the dismissive nature of his tone. “McKenna Rehab is a for-profit company, and as such, there needs to be a return on shareholder value.”
“For the past three years, McKenna has returned a two-fold profit to its shareholders,” I state casually.
“And you’ve expanded nationally, which is why now is the prime time to grow McKenna even more. Unfortunately, the opioid crisis isn’t letting up, especially in parts of the country like Appalachia and inner-cities where you have vested interests,” he points out.
I nod, still not feeling onboard in my gut, but I say, “Let’s discuss the numbers.”
We go around for the next two hours, talking numbers and the goals that Waldrich is looking to carry out through my facilities. Most of them line up with the aims I’d already set for McKenna clinics, but I still feel hesitation, and I refuse to rush making any significant decisions.
“I look forward to our next meeting, gentlemen, and Sheila.” I nod at the screen, and they all give their departing greetings moments before the screen goes blank. Larry and I talk a few more minutes and then I show him out.
“Still haven’t made a decision, have you?” Gloria’s voice sounds behind me as I stare out the window of my office.
A small smile appears on my lips as I turn to face her. “What gave it away?”
She rolls her eyes. “You and your father aren’t as different as you like to think.”
“Oh, no?”
She lets out a laugh. “Don’t get all offended, but there’s a thing or two you could learn from him.”
“I’m well past the days of being offended by any comparison. Maybe I’ll give him a call.” I’ve spoken with my father, Neil McKenna Senior, about this merger before, but that was a while ago.
“Good.”
I turn to look at the clock on the wall. “I’ve got a group in ten minutes.”
“The chairs have already been set up for you.”
“Thanks, Gloria.”
Though I’m the CEO of this place, I continue to hold onto my license to work one-on-one with patients or in group settings. Once a week, I make it a point to host a group meeting. It keeps me close to our clients to remain informed of their needs with my own two eyes and ears.
“I bet you’re looking forward to the holiday party this weekend. It’s the first of the season, and it’s at your favorite gallery,” Gloria notes.
I smirk. Yes, the annual holiday party at the Winston Art Gallery is one of my favorites that kicks off the weeks of holiday events. And Gloria is well aware of my love of art, but it’s not those passions that have me most excited for the party. It’s the fact that Desiree will be on my arm.
“Been looking forward to it all week,” I finally say to Gloria before we both exit my office so I can head down to my group meeting. There’s a noticeable lift in my step as I think about Desiree attending the party with me.
Every moment without her has come to feel like I’m holding my breath until I see her again.
Chapter 7
Rushing around my apartment, I press the button to dial Jackie’s number. It’s been weeks since we’ve spoken. I know she’s busy with work and everything, but I want to check in with my friend.
“Hello? Dierdre?” she answers, sounding breathless.
“Yeah, it’s me. What are you doing?” I question as I walk back into the kitchen. I’m also in the middle of baking some more cookie orders.
“N-Nothing. Just, uh, working. You?”
Pulling the phone from my ear, I stare at it to make sure I’ve dialed the right number. Jackie sounds flustered for some reason.
“You’re still at work?”
