“If I could trust her, sure,” I admit.“But I don’t.I just want to move on from it.”
Keith studies me for a moment, then nods.“I get it.”
There’s a beat of silence before he changes the subject.“So, how was your first day?”
It’s a simple question, but it catches me off guard.
No one’s really asked me that before… except Amelia today.
It feels weird.But also kind of nice.Especially coming from someone who understands the industry.
I lean against the counter, rubbing a hand over my jaw.“Surprisingly good.”
Keith nods slowly.
“I mean, I was nervous, obviously, but people seemed decent, for the most part.A few whispers and looks, but overall, it was alright.Met lots of new people.The place looks different but smells the same.Even though it feels familiar, it’s not like the city, you know?We don’t have everything at our fingertips.”
Keith nods.“Glad it wasn’t terrible.What’s your schedule looking like this week?”
“Mornings.”Which is a nice way to start a new job.But I am on a mix of days, afternoons, and nights over the first six weeks.
“Perfect.I’ll be around, so if you need a sounding board, I can help.”
I nod in appreciation, but my mind is already shifting to something else.“There’s an issue, though.”
“What’s that?”
“They need to fix the CT scanner.Ideally, they need a new one too.But apparently, I can’t buy one for the hospital.”
“Yeah, they won’t let you.I haven’t looked at the contract myself, but I’ve heard it’s not allowed.”
I shake my head.“I should double-check.Maybe there’s a way around it.”
Keith shrugs.“Maybe.But if they’ve been managing without one, they’ll survive a little longer while they save up.”
I grip the counter, my jaw tightening.“That’s not the point, Keith.There’s no CT scanner in town.That could cost someone their life.”
His expression sobers.
I drag a hand through my hair at the memories.Flashes of that day with my dad slam into me.“I want to have the right tools to save as many lives as possible.”
Keith doesn’t say anything for a moment.Then he sighs, voice quieter.“I know.”
The exhaustion of the day presses down on me again, but this time, it’s heavier.
Keith watches me carefully, then nods.After a moment, he clears his throat and says, “Well, if you do find a way to buy them one, maybe hold off until after Thanksgiving.Otherwise, you’ll end up the guy who donated the scanner and getting stuck with turkey duty.”
I snort and shake my head.“Right.Because that’s the real tragedy here.”
“Hey, dry turkey is no joke.I had to suffer through it once, and I still have nightmares.”
I laugh.“I’ll make sure to brine ours properly, then.”
Keith grins.“Good.I don’t want to choke to death before we figure out how to get that scanner.”
Chapter 9
Amelia
