Outside, the rain was starting to fall, streaking the glass.

“If you need someone to speak to the administration about the construction audit, I can do that,” Daniel offered.

“I don’t want to drag you into my personal problems,” I said.

“It’s not just personal anymore,” Daniel said. “Mark is using hospital funds.”

“That affects everyone here.”

He pulled a small business card from his pocket and handed it to me.

“This is my direct number,” he said.

I took the card. The edges were slightly worn.

“Thank you, Daniel,” I said.

“Keep your head up, Victoria,” he said.

He walked out into the rain, holding Chloe close to his chest under his jacket.

I watched them disappear into the parking lot.

I stood there for a moment, holding his card.

Then I turned and walked back to the pediatric ward.

I needed to lose myself in my work.

I spent the next three hours checking vitals and administering medications.

I helped a little boy with a broken leg color a picture of a dinosaur.

I adjusted an IV drip for a sleeping toddler.