“Ahh, Dr. Williams,” Allison says, extending her hand. “I’ve heard a lot about you.”
I have to bite my bottom lip to keep from smiling.
“All positive, I’m sure,” he replies with a warm smile as he shakes her hand.
Allison chuckles. That’s her only reply.
“Well, I’ll let you two get your day started. I came in early to learn the layout of the facility and meet the staff. I’m happy to be able to help in Dr. Houston’s absence,” he says, returning to his usual, charming self.
I don’t reply, but Allison does.
“Listen, Dr. Williams, I know it might be a bit uncomfortable working here, given your previous relationship status with Oaklee, but I’m sure everyone can keep it professional, right?”
“Of course.” There’s a tightness around his mouth I notice immediately. He definitely doesn’t appreciate being called out by Allison.
“I thought so, but I wanted to say something regardless,” she adds with a warm smile that’s too big and clearly fake.
“I can understand your concern, but I have no intention of causing Oaklee or anyone here any extra stress. I want this to be a comfortable working environment.” He flashes his own fake smile, making me want to roll my eyes.
“Excellent,” she replies, pushing past him and entering our space. “If you need anything, let me know. I’ll be right here,” she adds, leaving a heaviness hanging in her statement. She’s telling him she’s watching him without saying the words.
Man, I love this woman.
“Nice to meet you, Allison,” he replies before turning and exiting our small work area.
When we know he’s across the hall, she turns her attention to me. “I hate him,” she murmurs softly as to not be overheard.
I can’t help but smile. “Something else we have in common.”
She snorts. “What did the parasite say?”
“Nothing, really, but I’m sure if you hadn’t walked in, he would have. We had only just started talking.”
“Well, the offer still stands, if he gives you problems, let Fiona know and I’ll trade you. Specialty services aren’t much different than our regular clinic procedures. I’m certain you can pick it up quickly.”
I exhale and take a sip of my iced coffee. “Thank you for the offer, but I’m sure we’ll be fine. Lance is a lot of things, but when it comes to his career, he’s always been one-hundred-percent dedicated. That was part of our problem,” I say, recalling all the times he put himself, his career, and schooling above everything else, including me.
“If you say so.” Shoving her purse in the cabinet, she turns to me and adds, “I’ll still junk-punch him if you want.”
I grin. “Not necessary, but thank you for the offer.”
Nodding, she moves over to her computer and turns it on. “Anything happen with you-know-who since we last spoke?” She glances at me, sipping her own iced drink.
I feel my face heat. “Maybe…”
Her eyes widen. “Tell me everything,” she whisper-yells.
“Nothing much to tell, but he came over again after work and brought sandwiches from the deli.”
“He’s such a sweetheart. Did he bring you anything else?” she asks.
When I don’t reply, she spins in her chair and gasps. “Did he bring…the D?” she asks quietly.
“No! I mean, well, no, but kinda.”
She looks concerned as she tries to understand. “Honey, usually there isn’t any question about whether he brought it or not, especially if he’s using it right.”
I shake my head and chuckle. “We didn’t…you know, but we did fool around a little.”
