“Now I’m here. Accepting consequences. Asking that whatever happens to me, you don’t punish Doctor Brooks. She didn’t ask for any of this.”
Martinez exchanged glances with Walsh and Chen. “We’ll need to discuss this. You’ll have our decision by end of business today.”
Maggie stood. “Thank you.”
As she reached the door, Chen called out. “Maggie?”
She turned.
“That took courage. Stupid, possibly career-ending courage. But courage nonetheless.”
Maggie smiled sadly. “Someone once told me that survival isn’t the same as living.”
She left before anyone could respond.
The decision came at 4:47 PM.
Subject: MEDICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE - DECISION
Dr. Laurel,
After reviewing all available evidence and your testimony, the Medical Review Committee has reached the following decision:
FINDING: Professional boundary violation confirmed
DISCIPLINARY ACTION:- Thirty (30) days administrative leave, effective immediately- Formal written reprimand to be placed in personnel file- Mandatory completion of 8-hour ethics and boundaries training- Monthly supervision meetings with Chief of Medicine for six (6) months following return- Dr. Brooks to remain on separate service for minimum six (6) months
This is not a termination. However, any future violations will result in immediate dismissal and potential license review.
We recognize your honesty during this process and your proactive steps to address the situation. These have been considered as mitigating factors.
Your administrative leave begins tomorrow, October 17th. You will be eligible to return November 17th pending completion of required training.
Dr. Patricia Chen, Chief of Medicine
Maggie read it three times.
Not fired.
Not destroyed.
Just... suspended. Formally reprimanded. Put on notice.
She could survive this.
The question was whether Evie would ever forgive her for choosing survival over standing together.
Maggie picked up her phone. Texted Evie:Committee gave me 30 days leave. Not fired. I’m sorry for everything.
The dots appeared. Stayed for a long time.
Then:I’m glad you’re not fired. But sorry isn’t enough. Not yet.
Maggie stared at the message.
Not yet.
Which meant maybe someday.
