Noah interrupted him, standing up to grab his coat from the rack. "The records in the ER will be changed to reflect a dilation and curettage procedure. The discharge summary will also note post-surgical recovery."
Simon had prepared a whole speech—he was ready to beg, roll on the floor, whatever it took—but he hadn't expected the man to agree so readily.
"Just like that?" Simon stared at him suspiciously.
"I am a doctor. Saving people is my duty. Protecting patients is also my duty."
Simon stared at him for a few seconds, then grinned.
"Alright. For that line alone, the next time you buy something from my livestream, I'll give you a massive discount."
Noah hummed a non-committal response, draping his coat over his arm as he headed for the door.
Simon followed close behind like a puppy.
Honestly, with looks and temperament like that, Noah was a top-tier genius even in their elite circles. That aloof, ascetic vibe was practically begging to be corrupted.
But Simon was a man of principle.
"Uh, Dr. Carter."
Simon quickened his pace to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with him. "I need to say this upfront. Even though you're extremely... you know... I'm a loyal guy. I have a little 'toy boy' at home, still in college, very possessive. I admire you purely from an aesthetic standpoint. No ulterior motives."
Noah's steps faltered slightly. He glanced sideways at Simon, a hint of amusement in his eyes.
"You're overthinking it."
"Good, good," Simon patted his chest. "I was just afraid you'd misunderstand and think I was hitting on you, which would make things awkward for Clara."
Noah continued walking, his voice calm. "I don't have that intention either. I'm not interested in men."
Simon pursed his lips.
Straight men. Boring.
...
The hospital had a dedicated service tunnel for medical waste disposal that led directly to the back street. While the environment was less than pristine, it was a blind spot for the security cameras.
When he heard Noah's suggestion, Simon's eyes went round. "Damn, even the 'Ice Prince' knows how to sneak out the back door?"
Emily had gone back to the hotel to get her car and was waiting for them there.
Simon insisted on carrying Clara on his back.
Once she was up, Simon felt a pang of sadness.
"Clara, you've gotten so light," Simon said as he walked. "I used to carry you and it was like hauling a sack of rice. Why are you barely a feather now?"
Clara buried her face in his shoulder, her eyes stinging. "Shut up."
The cold wind outside hit them, and Clara felt a dull ache return to her abdomen.



VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Officer's Runaway Wife & Secret Son