Part 1

My name is Dr. Katherine Monroe, and I had dedicated sixteen years to Westbridge Memorial Hospital. That morning, I was reviewing patient files outside the nurses’ station when a young intern named Madison Hale demanded I move aside. Before I could respond, she grabbed the coffee from my hand and flung it across my white coat. The hot liquid soaked through the fabric as shocked nurses watched in silence. Madison folded her arms with a smug smile and declared, “My husband is the CEO of this hospital. One phone call, and your career is over.” Instead of arguing, I calmly wiped the coffee from my sleeve and studied the diamond ring on her finger. I knew that ring better than anyone because it had belonged to my grandmother. My heartbeat slowed as realization settled over me. Without raising my voice, I reached for my phone and dialed a number I still knew by heart.

When David answered, I spoke quietly enough that only those nearest could hear. “Honey, you should come downstairs. Your new wife just threw coffee all over me.” Every conversation stopped. Madison laughed until I added, “Considering our divorce was never finalized, I think we need to discuss why she’s wearing my grandmother’s engagement ring.” Her confident smile disappeared instantly. Just then, the elevator doors opened, and David stepped into the hallway, unaware that everyone was already staring at him.