Chapter 5

Lily

“I understand you are confused but if you would kindly follow me to my office, I can explain things better to you,” Mr Reed offered. 

I glanced around warily, curious if anyone was seeing this. I didn't want to be accused of impersonation later on with no witnesses. 

But everyone was pretty much minding their business. It made me even more nervous. 

“Are you sure you don't want to go through my file one more time? I really don't think I…”

“This way, please,” he politely insisted. I couldn't argue any further. For all I knew, this might be my only chance to get to a job. No one would want to employ someone who declined a meeting with their boss. 

With that in mind, I nodded and followed him. My heart pounded throughout the elevator ride. 

Several thoughts ran through my mind as I tried to figure out what he wanted with me. I stole a quick glance at him. 

The man was grinning ear to ear like he just achieved something big. I'm not sure I've seen someone this excited over recruiting an inexperienced staff. 

Or maybe the hospital was short-staffed. 

The elevator doors finally opened to the executive floor. His office was the only room on this floor. 

He scanned his key card and the door opened to reveal a massive office. My lips parted in awe as I stepped into the incredibly large space. The design was simplistic but the furniture screamed wealth. 

The more my eyes scanned the place, the less likely it seemed for me to secure a job here. When I finally caught sight of the shelf where all his awards were lined, my breath caught. 

This man was no regular health practitioner. 

“Have a seat,” The voice pulled me back to reality. He was already seated behind the neatly arranged desk. 

“Thank you,” I mumbled, taking a seat. 

“Do you care for a drink? Coffee?” 

“No, thank—” the words trailed off when I spotted the photo frame on his desk. “Dr Davison?” I blurted in shock. 

“Oh yes, he's my mentor,” The man said proudly. 

I could barely hear him over the shock. It’s been years since I last saw this man. 

Dr Davison was my professor back in university and one of the prominent figures in the medical world. Years ago, he'd taken an interest in my research on traditional and modern medicine. I was the only med student who succeeded in getting an internship under him but he set the bars so high that everyone in my faculty was certain he hated me. 

After graduation, he personally sent me an appointment letter to join him as a junior in one of the most prestigious hospitals in the country. An opportunity I let slip from my fingers because of the scandal with Chaise. 

My chest tightened. Would things have turned out better if I just accepted that letter and moved far away from Chaise?

I haven't been able to contact Dr Davison since then but I was well aware he was heavily disappointed in me. 

“We had a meeting with him last month, all the mentees who trained under him and just like every other meeting in the last three years, he asked if any of us managed to secure the Wells University Star Medical student, Lily Clinton,” Mr Reed said. 

The words pulled me back to reality. 

“What?” I blinked, taken aback by his words. 

“Miss Clinton, you might not be aware but Dr Davison had very high hopes for you. He believes you can change the face of modern medicine which is why he used every connection he had to ensure there was a place for you in every leading medical research facility in the country. How could you not know this?” He said. 

To stay I was stunned would be an understatement. I was speechless. 

My eyes watered from disbelief and gratitude. 

“Dr Davison did that?” My voice was heavy with emotion. At this point, professionalism didn't matter to me. I just wanted to burst into tears. “I… I haven't spoken to him since graduation. I didn't think he would want anything to do with me after I disappointed him.” 

“I don't know the whole story but I assure you he is very proud and patiently waiting for you,” Mr Reed said with a soft smile. He drew his drawers and took out a letter. He stretched it to me. “Here's the recommendation he sent out.” 

My hands trembled as I took the letter. From the appearance you could tell it was opened and read several times. 

A lump formed in my throat as I opened the letter. 

«To Whom It May Concern,

I write to offer my strongest professional recommendation for Miss Lily Clinton, a graduate of Wells University and one of the most exceptional medical students I have had the privilege of teaching and mentoring.

Throughout my academic and clinical career, I have supervised numerous students and researchers. Miss Clinton has consistently distinguished herself through exceptional analytical ability, intellectual curiosity, and an uncommon capacity to integrate evidence-based medicine with innovative research perspectives. Her work has demonstrated both scientific rigor and critical thiwnking required to advance modern medical practice.

During her internship under my supervision, she displayed remarkable discipline, sound clinical judgment, and a level of research aptitude rarely encountered at her stage of training. I have every confidence that given the appropriate environment and opportunity, she will make significant contributions to medical research and clinical innovation.

Should Miss Clinton seek employment or research opportunities at your institution, I recommend that her application be given the highest professional consideration. I believe she possesses the expertise, character, and potential to become a valuable asset to any medical or research establishment.

Should further information be required, I would be pleased to provide it.

Dr. Ethan Davison

Professor of Medicine and Clinical Research

Consultant Physician»

A tear slipped past my cheek onto the paper. Here I thought he had completely given up on me the way I gave up on my future, but the entire time, he was clearing the path for me. 

I sniffled, smiling through the tears. 

“Do you still think I am mistaken, Miss Clinton?” He questioned and I shook my head, wiping my cheeks quickly. 

“You are not mistaken, sir.” 

“Good. On that note, should I assume you are ready to commence training tomorrow?”

Huh? So soon?

"I..." I lowered my gaze. "There's something you should know before you make that decision."

He leaned back against his chair, giving me his full attention.

"I haven't practiced medicine since graduation." The room fell silent and a feeling of shame hovered over me. 

"I never completed my residency. I haven't stepped into a hospital as a doctor in three years. Everything I've learned... I'm afraid it's become rusty.”

He stared at me thoughtfully then let out a small smile. 

“I appreciate the honesty, Miss Clinton but that would not be a problem. We don't expect you to perform miracles on your first day," he said lightly. "You'll begin under our research development program. It's designed for doctors returning to practice or transitioning into research. Your performance will determine how quickly you advance.”

Relief washed through me instantly. 

“Any further questions?” He asked.

“No sir.”

He stood, offering me his hand. I quickly stood, unable to hide my smile. 

“Congratulations, Miss Clinton. We look forward to working with you.”