Chapter 1941: Timid

The next day, Madilyn awoke early and prepared for work. Lorraine, having finished breakfast, urged her daughter to eat. Normally, Madilyn would have devoured her meal and rushed to the hospital, but today, she ate slowly, a fact that worried Lorraine. Lorraine understood, however, that lecturing would be futile; her daughter needed to confront her relationship issues directly.

Reluctantly, Madilyn went to the hospital, dreading a potential confrontation. Nevertheless, her responsibilities as director demanded her presence; many crucial decisions awaited. Passing the conference room, she overheard a conversation among doctors:

“What's the relationship between Mr. Queen and patient number 37? They seem very close. I thought Mr. Queen and our director were…”

“Our emergency room colleague said number 37 was in an accident with Mr. Queen; he's been caring for her. Don't speculate. Maybe they're just friends.”

“Does the director know about this? I wouldn't want to see that.”

“Stop gossiping! The director will arrive soon. Let's focus on our tasks. Dr. Anderson, it's your turn for room inspection!”

Stunned, Madilyn quickly retreated to her office, wanting to conceal her distress. Her schedule called for ward inspections with the doctors on duty, but she felt utterly disinclined.

Unexpectedly, Jonathan knocked. “Madilyn, is it convenient to talk?”

Madilyn, reviewing a patient's chart, panicked at his familiar voice. After a moment's hesitation, she called, “Come in!”

Jonathan entered, smiling. “Thank you, Madilyn! If not for your help, Coralie's life might have been in danger! I was driving when the accident happened; if anything had befallen her, I wouldn't know how to face her family.”

“No need to thank me. It's my duty,” Madilyn replied, her mood darkening at his cheerful demeanor. Coralie must be very important to him.

“I wanted to ask you to examine Ms. Crawford,” Jonathan continued calmly. “She seems lucid and has a normal appetite, but complains of occasional headaches. I wonder if it's a post-concussion effect.”

Madilyn felt a surge of reluctance. She would have readily agreed if it were another patient, but Jonathan's closeness to Coralie made her hesitant.

Instead, she tactfully declined. “The doctor on duty will see her. Concussions take time to heal; her prescription should include analgesics. She'll be fine in a few days.”

“So, that's normal?” Jonathan asked.

Madilyn nodded calmly.

“I'm relieved! Thank you again!” Jonathan, oblivious to Madilyn's strained expression, left for the inpatient department.

Madilyn closed the door and sighed. “Why am I so timid? Jonathan didn't tell me who Coralie is to him, so why am I avoiding her?”