“If this goes to a formal investigation, the papers will get hold of it,” Michael said.

“Let them,” I said, though my chest tightened at the thought.

“The hospital board is incredibly sensitive about public scandals, Elizabeth,” Michael said, his voice dropping to a low purr.

“I am the Chief of Medicine,” I said. “My record here is spotless.”

“For now,” Michael said. “But a pending criminal charge of assault does not look good on a hospital’s letterhead.”

“Are you threatening my job, Michael?” I asked.

“I am stating a fact,” he said. “The board is already hearing rumors.”

“How?” I demanded. “The incident happened six hours ago.”

“The medical community in this city is very small,” Michael said. “And people talk.”

Daniel looked at me, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and desperation.

“Just sign the statement saying it was a misunderstanding,” Daniel said. “We can make this all go away.”

“I will not lie to protect a woman who tried to hospitalize me,” I said.

“Then you are on your own,” Daniel said, turning his back to me.