Page 14 of Shadows of Recovery

Karen smiled. “That’s good. We also need to ensure your relationship doesn’t affect the workplace environment or patient care. Clearly, the attack by a patient’s father was an anomaly. Transparency is key.”

“Absolutely,” Tristan agreed. “We’re committed to keeping our personal and professional lives separate while at work.”

Karen nodded, satisfied. “Good. As long as you maintain open communication and follow the necessary protocols, I don’t foresee any issues. If anything comes up, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Sophie felt a wave of relief. “Thank you, Karen. We appreciate your support.”

After the meeting, Tristan walked Sophie back to the ER. “Are you sure you’re ready to be back?” he asked, concern in his eyes.

“I am,” Sophie replied confidently. “And thank you for caring.”

Tristan winked. “Always.”

* * *

The hospital cafeteriawas bustling with the usual midday crowd—nurses, doctors, and staff grabbing quick meals between shifts. Sophie and Tristan managed to find a quiet corner near the windows, away from the noise, and settled down with their trays. The familiar sounds of the hospital around them felt oddly comforting to Sophie, a sign things were returning to some semblance of normalcy after the craziness of the day a few weeks earlier.

“So, how does it feel to be back?” Tristan’s tone was light as he unwrapped a sandwich. His eyes were warm with concern and something else she couldn’t quite name—maybe pride, maybe relief.

Sophie took a sip of her tea, then smiled. “It feels good. Weird, but good. I mean, I’ve only been out for a little while, but it feels like forever.”

Tristan chuckled. “That’s what happens when you’re missed.” He took a bite of his sandwich, then added, “You should have seen the look on the staff’s faces when they heard you were back today. It’s like someone announced free coffee for a year.”

Sophie laughed softly, the sound easing the last of her lingering nerves. “I think you’re exaggerating, but it’s nice to feel welcome.”

“I’m not exaggerating,” Tristan insisted with a grin. “You’re kind of a big deal around here, Dr. Sophie.”

She rolled her eyes playfully, though she couldn’t help but feel a little flattered. “Well, it’s good to be back in the mix. And to have you here with me, making sure I don’t overdo it.”

“That’s part of my job description now.” Tristan winked at her. “Official Sophie-watcher. Don’t tell HR though.”

Sophie laughed again, and for a moment, the world outside their little corner of the cafeteria seemed to disappear. She appreciated how Tristan could make her feel at ease.

“So,” he continued, his tone more casual, “what’s on the agenda for the rest of your day? Besides being fabulous, of course.”

Sophie smiled, appreciating the way he was keeping things light. “I’ve got the rest of the shift till seven. And you?”

“Same here,” Tristan leaned back in his chair, “though I might be done a little earlier. I was thinking… if you’re up for it, we could grab dinner tonight? You know, something that doesn’t involve hospital trays and cafeteria food?”

“I’d love that.”

Tristan’s grin widened, and for a moment, Sophie forgot all about the concussion, the stress, and the uncertainty that had clouded her thoughts. In that instant, it was just the two of them, sharing a moment of connection that felt easy, natural—like slipping into a rhythm they both knew well.

“Great,” he said, finishing his sandwich. “It’s a date.”

Her smile didn’t falter as she took another sip of her tea, her heart light.

* * *

A few nights later,when their schedules synced again, Sophie invited Tristan to her apartment. She wanted to share a quiet evening together. As he arrived, she felt a flutter of anticipation.

She greeted him at the door, her smile lighting up the room. “Hi,” she stepped aside to let him in, “welcome.”

“Hi.” He pulled her into a gentle embrace.

Sophie led him to the kitchen, where the table was set for two. The aroma of homemade lasagna filled the air. “I hope you’re hungry,” she said with a grin.

“Starving, I missed lunch today.” His eyes twinkled with warmth. “I had a bunch of fundraising meetings at the Institute.”

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