My cheeks burn, but I nod as if this is a perfectly normal conversation to be having.
"I completely agree," I say. "Professional boundaries are essential in medical practice."
"Excellent." Sutton smiles, though it doesn't reach his eyes. "We've had some... unfortunate media attention recently. Nothing directly concerning your department, of course, but it's important that all staff understand our policies regarding public representation of the team."
Coach Thompson slides a folder across the table. "Our media guidelines and fraternization policies. Standard for all staff. But you probably know we spent the first half of last season tied up in media nonsense with our goalie. We want to get ahead of anything if you take my meaning.”
I take the folder, fingers numb. "Thank you."
"We have high hopes for you, Dr. Sinclair," Sutton says, his tone warmer now that the message has been delivered. "Dr. Bowman spoke very highly of your skills, and the players already seem comfortable with you."
"That's very kind," I manage. “How is he feeling?”
Sutton shakes his head. “Hates forced retirement. His wife and mine are friends. He’ll probably stop by sometime to check in on you.”
Thompson nods. “We just want to ensure nothing... complicates your ability to do your job effectively."
The meeting wraps up shortly after, with reassurances that this was just a routine check-in, the same one all new staff receive. But as I walk back to my office, folder clutched to my chest, I know better.
They're warning me about Alder.
Back in my office, I close the door and sink into my chair, finally allowing the mask of professionalism to slip. My hands shake as I open the folder, scanning the fraternization policy.
"Personal relationships between team medical staff and players are strongly discouraged due to potential conflicts of interest and impacts on team dynamics. Staff found to be in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination."
Termination. The word seems to pulse on the page.
I think about my student loans. About my mother's voice, dripping with doubt. About the apartment, I need to find. About the career I've worked so hard to build.
My phone buzzes with a text from Alder:
Any preferences for dinner tonight? Also, had a revenge idea that wanted to run by you.
Our plan. Our "summer fling" plan. The plan that might cost me everything.
I type a quick response:
Can't tonight. Swamped with patient files. Will catch up later.
It's not entirely a lie. I do have files to review. And I need space to think and figure out how to navigate this impossible situation.
Because the truth is becoming painfully clear: What began as a petty revenge scheme has evolved into something I can't afford—professionally or emotionally.
I need to find my own place and establish clear boundaries with Alder. I need to protect my job.
What I don't need is to fall for a patient, even one with kind eyes, a gentle touch, and a weird dog I've grown far too attached to.
I pull up apartment listings on my computer, determined to take control of at least one aspect of my increasingly complicated life. Ditching the idea of revenge against Brad, I come up with a new plan—one that’s just for me.
Step one: Find a place of my own.
Step two: Establish professional boundaries with Alder.
Step three: Somehow ignore the fact that I'm already halfway to falling for him.
CHAPTER 18
ALDER
