The moment I step inside, the temperature drops noticeably. Perfect vaccine storage conditions. It’s cold enough that I can see my breath.
I open the main refrigeration unit, and cold air spills out, even colder than the already chilly room. Inside are rows and rows of vaccination vials, all neatly organized by batch number.
I find the section for batch HF-2047-B and carefully place my three vials back in their designated slots. Everything has its place. Everything is tracked. I close the refrigerator and head back out into the hallway, already grateful for the warmer temperature.
Ethan is waiting with a grin. “That was quick.”
“It’s cold in there,” I say, rubbing my arms.
“It sure is. Okay, I’m logging the return now.” He starts typing. Then glances at the clock to note the time. “Everything looks perfect.”
The system beeps its acceptance, and I watch as the digital record updates in real-time.
“All set.” Ethan grins at me. “You make my job easy, you know that? Some of the other nurses are so sloppy with their documentation. But you’re always perfect.”
“It’s important,” I say. “Every detail matters.”
“Music to my ears.” He leans back in his chair, and there’s that smile again. “So, uh, I was wondering… There’s this new restaurant that just opened up near the market district. Have you heard of it?”
Oh no. Here we go.
“I think Sally mentioned it,” I say.
“Yeah? Well, I was thinking maybe you’d want to check it out sometime. With me.” His smile is hopeful. “You know, like dinner?”
Ethan is sweet. He really is. He’s cute and friendly, but…I’m just not feeling it. Besides, I really don’t like to date anyone at work. I meant it when I said that to Sally.
“That’s really nice of you to offer,” I start, trying to find the kindest way to decline.
“Is that a yes?” His face lights up.
“I just… I’m not really wanting to date right now,” I finish awkwardly. “Work has been really busy, and I’m trying to focus on my career, and—”
“Oh, totally, I get it.” He waves a hand, though I can see the disappointment in his eyes. “No pressure. The offer stands, though, whenever you’re ready.”
“Thanks, Ethan. That’s really sweet. I also don’t date guys I work with, you know?”
He nods. “Oh…okay…alright. I understand.”
The awkward moment is saved by the sound of heavy footsteps approaching from down the hallway.
“Evening, Jarek,” Ethan calls out. “Right on time for shift change.”
Jarek nods, his sharp eyes scanning the area in that way security personnel always do. He’s wearing a leather uniform, his tattoos snaking down his arms.
“Evening, Ethan. Miss Lewis.” His voice is a deep rumble. “Everything good?”
“All good,” Ethan confirms, standing up and stretching. “Wren just brought back some vials. All properly logged and stored.”
Jarek gives me a nod. “Good.”
He moves to Ethan’s station and begins the handover process, checking the access logs and security camera feeds on the computer. Security around the pharmaceutical storage is tight.
“How’s your family, Jarek?” I ask while Ethan gathers his things. “Did your daughter start school?”
His stern expression softens. “She did. First day was last week. She loves it.” There’s unmistakable pride in his voice. “She’s already making friends and bringing home art projects.”
“That’s wonderful.” I smile. I met his daughter once when she came to the clinic with her mother for a checkup. Sweet little girl with dark curls and her father’s eyes.
