“My medical records from that night show a deep laceration on my neck and a bruised clavicle.”

“Dr. Singh treated me in the trauma bay.”

Vance stared at the screen, his mouth slightly open.

He turned his gaze slowly to Michael.

“Michael,” Vance said.

“What is this?”

Michael did not answer.

He reached for his leather briefcase and stood up, buttoning his jacket.

“This meeting is over,” Michael said.

“No,” Vance said, his voice hardening.

“It isn’t.”

“Daniel, sit down,” Vance commanded as my brother started to rise.

Daniel sank back into his chair, looking small.

Vance looked at the other board members.

They exchanged brief, quiet nods.

“Dr. Morgan,” Vance said, turning back to me.

“It is clear that you were the victim of a severe physical assault.”

“The board apologizes for the immediate suspension.”

“Your status as Chief of Medicine is reinstated, effective immediately.”

“Thank you,” I said.

“I will need a written copy of the reinstatement for my records.”

“You will have it within the hour,” Vance said.

Michael walked out of the room, slamming the heavy oak door behind him.