“Scar,” I hiss, glancing around.“Calm down.”
“I can’t.”She’s practically bouncing.“This is the most exciting thing since the announcement of the new wing.”
“I’m not sticking around after this year,” I remind her, quieter now, because it makes me feel uneasy.“And he’s about to be made chief.He deserves it.The last thing I want is to put that at risk.”
“You really think it would?”she asks as she studies me.
I shrug, even though the answer is yes.“We’ve both been honest about it.Neither of us is looking for anything serious.”
Scarlet’s gaze sharpens.“Are you sure?”
“Yeah.”I nod, maybe too quickly.“We’re on the same page.We talked about it.It actually feels...good.”Liar.Because that’s what I am to both Scarlet and myself.
She gives me a long, searching look.“No feelings at all?Not even a little more than just...fun?”
“I mean, maybe a little.But that’s natural, right?”I rush to say.Panic flutters in my chest because I’ve said too much.“He’s been really good to work with.He trusts me.He gives me independence.When my dad was breathing down my neck, Brant supported me.I needed that.Watching him like that is probably messing with my head.”
“You sure that’s all it is?”
“I’ll be fine.”I lift my chin, trying to believe it myself.“It’ll pass.I’ll move on.That’s what this was always meant to be.”
Scarlet doesn’t look convinced.“Well, for what it’s worth, I think you two would work.Long distance isn’t impossible.You’re not married to the city.”
I roll my eyes.“Oh, please.This is not a love story.It’s just fun.”
“Mmhmm,” she hums, clearly not buying it.“Still, keep me updated.I love you.And I just want you happy.”
I soften, my smile turning real as something tight tugs in my chest.“I am happy.”
“I know, but…” She sighs, brushing a curl behind her ear as her eyes flick toward the crowd.“He’s a good guy.So are you.And look, I’ll admit, there were things about him I didn’t see at first, but now?I totally get the appeal.”
I let out a laugh, tipping my head back slightly.“If I ever do need to talk, you’ll be my first call.”
“Good.”She bumps her shoulder lightly against mine.“You shouldn’t have to carry this alone.And if it ever stops being fun, I’ll be here.No judgment.”
I smile, tugging the hem of my dress nervously.“Thanks.But it’s really just a fling.Have some fun...and then head back home.”My heart drops at the admission.
Scarlet groans dramatically, dragging a hand down her face.“Ugh, I’m gonna miss you.This sucks.”
“I know.”I glance around the room, feeling a pang of sadness about leaving Scarlet.“It’s already been over three months.How?”
She smirks and leans in, lowering her voice.“Time flies when you’re making out with hot doctors.”
I snort a laugh as we link arms.“C’mon, let’s go mingle.”
“Oh, hang on.Greer is bringing back drinks.”She stops us with a tug.“What about your dad?He doesn’t know, does he?”
I freeze mid-step, a chill running down my spine.“God, no.”I scan the room, looking for Brant, spotting him still across the room talking.Our eyes meet for a second.“If he found out...Brant wouldn’t stand a chance at getting chief.”
Scarlet winces, her face contorting in sympathy.“That’s not fair.”
“I know.”I swallow hard as my pulse tics faster.“That’s why we’re being careful.I want him to get it.”
“I totally agree,” she says firmly, squeezing my arm.“I don’t know anyone more deserving.”
I weave my way through the crowd alone, chatting with directors, donors, nurses, and a few of the hospital's higher-ups.
Eventually, I slip away to the bathroom for a break, needing a quick breather.
