Page 57 of Doctor's Bossy Match
Dr.Thomas leans back in his chair, arms crossed.“It’s clear.Practical.Most importantly, it’s implementable.I appreciate that you didn’t just list the problems.You offered real solutions.”
My heart thumps hard.I nod as relief washes through me, but keep my face neutral.
“We’ll review the full proposal and vote next week,” he says.“If approved, rollout starts next month.Any questions?”
For ten more minutes, we go back and forth, answering and clarifying.I catch Regan’s eye, and she gives me the smallest nod.
Finally, the board chair closes their notes.“That’s all for now.Excellent work, both of you.We’ll be in touch on Monday.”
As the room empties, Regan turns to me.“How did you think we went?”
I let out a slow breath.“I think we survived.”
Dr.Thomas is still packing up at the table.He glances at me and says, “Nice work.”
It’s quick and simple, but it lands hard.A tiny boost of hope.
“Thanks,” I say quietly.
Out in the hallway, Regan nudges me.“You want to go breathe into a paper bag, or is it just me?”
I laugh, finally relaxing.“Let’s just get coffee.”
“Deal.First round’s on you.I earned it.”
I stop walking and turn to face her.She looks up at me, and in her eyes, I see relief and a touch of pride.And fuck, it makes her glow.
My hand finds the small of her back before I can stop myself.“You did good in there.”
Her eyes flick to mine, surprised, then she smiles.And it cracks something in me.It makes me want to kiss her, which is stupid, so I turn, and we head toward the break room.
Dr.Thomas calls after us.“I sent you both an email about a charity event next week.”
I pull it up on my phone and groan.“No way.”
How am I going to survive this mortifying experience?
Regan reads over my shoulder.“Role-Reversal Day.Oh, this should be good.”
I don’t even try to hide the dread on my face.
Chapter 20
Regan
It’sasunnySaturdayafternoon when I meet Scarlet and Dusty at the park.Since I’ve been back, I want to make a point to be present with them and soak in these small moments.
Dusty tugs at my hand, his cheeks flushed with excitement.“Regan, will you play with me again?”
I smile, warmth bubbling in my chest.The thought of leaving him, missing these moments, makes me sad in a way I wasn’t prepared for.“Sure.But maybe we hit the park first?Pirates or hide-and-seek, then we do the picnic.Deal?”
“Yes!”he shouts before bolting toward the equipment.
Scarlet and I stroll behind at a slower pace.“So, how’s work been?”
“Oh!”I grin, remembering.“I haven’t told you.Next week, we’re doing a role-reversal training exercise.I get to mentor Brant.”
Scarlet grabs my arm, practically doubling over in laughter.“No way.Brant?Losing control?Oh my God, he's going to hate that.”
