“Comes with the territory,” he says, flicking on the clippers.“Doesn’t help you’re always hanging around Keith, either.”
“That’s true.Everyone loves Keith.”I look down as he runs the clippers through my hair.
“Speaking of hanging out.Got any plans tonight?I’m meeting some buddies at the tavern to watch the game.”
Even though I want to see Amelia, she said she was hanging out with Aurora before she leaves.I haven’t spent any time with guys outside of work and Keith.I need to try now that I plan to stay, and this is the perfect chance.
“You know what, I should probably get some sleep first, as I just finished a night shift, but yeah, I’m in.”
Derek grins.“Good.We’ll grab some food while we’re there.”
I pull out my phone and send Keith a quick text, letting him know I won’t be home tonight.The best part?I don’t have work later, so I don’t have to stress about keeping my head clear for a shift.
“Same cut as last time?”Derek asks.
“Yes, please.”
We talk a little about sports, work, even Amelia.I try not to dwell too much on that last topic.She called me yesterday, but it was brief, just enough to remind me how much I miss her.Talking about her makes me miss her that much more, so I try to avoid it today.
By the time Derek finishes, I feel at least somewhat put together again.He dusts off my collar.“Well, at least you’ll be looking fresh tonight.”
“Yeah, thanks to you.”
He laughs.“You need a ride tonight?”
“Nah, I’m good.If Keith’s home, he can drop me off, or I’ll drive.Not planning on having a big one.”
“Loosening up wouldn’t kill you, man,” he says, patting my back.“You’ve been through a hell of a transition.Let yourself enjoy it.”
I nod.“Maybe you’re right.”
When I wake from a nap, my phone screen glows with a notification.I rub the sleep from my eyes and open it.My heart lodges in my throat as I read the headline:
Dr.Pierce: A True Healer at Heart
My pulse spikes.I can already tell who wrote it.
Amelia.
She’s trying to make me look good, to change the narrative.She didn’t have to do this.But she did.It’s her way of owning our relationship and crossing a professional boundary to set me in a good light.
I read through it, something raw twisting inside me.
In a world where medical professionals are often scrutinized, it’s easy to overlook the ones who go above and beyond the call of duty.Dr.Pierce is one of those rare individuals.A doctor who not only saves lives within the hospital but also carries his dedication beyond his scheduled shifts.
Recently, at the home of Evangeline Richards, he showcased exactly what it means to be a doctor, not just in title, but in action.While others were enjoying dinner, Dr.Pierce was saving a life.When Ms.Richards suffered a sudden medical emergency, it was his quick thinking and expertise that prevented a tragedy.With steady hands, he assessed her condition and took immediate action, getting her the help she needed before it was too late.Without him, Ms.Richards might not be here today.
And this wasn’t an isolated incident.
Stories like these define true heroism.It’s not about recognition or reward; it’s about instinct, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to humanity.
Dr.Pierce doesn’t just wear the title of doctor.He embodies it.
While others may see him through the distorted lens of controversy, I see the man who saves lives.I see a doctor who sacrifices his own time and energy to protect others.I see someone who deserves our respect, our gratitude, and above all, our trust.
In the end, the truth speaks louder than any headline.And the truth is, Dr.Pierce is the kind of doctor the world desperately needs more of.
Amelia
