Page 8 of Shadows of Recovery

Tristan leaned back, absorbing Chris's words. "I don’t want to cause any issues, but I can’t ignore what I feel either."

"I understand. It's a tough situation. Just remember, as a leader, your actions set the tone for your team. If you choose to pursue something with Sophie, you need to handle it with the utmost professionalism and transparency. Consider talking to HR for guidance as well."

"Thanks, Chris. I appreciate your advice."

"Anytime, Tristan. Take care and think it through carefully. Your decisions affect more than just you.” He paused. “Does the institute have fraternization rules?”

"We will after the next board meeting. Thanks again."

As Tristan hung up, he felt a little clearer but no less conflicted. The attraction he felt for Sophie was undeniable, but the responsibility he held as Chief of Emergency Services pressed heavily on him. He had to tread carefully, balancing his personal feelings with his professional duties, and he resolved to think carefully about his next steps.

Tristan stared at his phone. The conversation with Chris clarified some points, but it didn’t make the situation any easier. He knew the next step was a call to HR, but the thought filled him with dread. He couldn't reveal Sophie's name, not yet. He had to understand the implications first.

He dialed the number for HR, his heart pounding in his ears. After a few rings, a calm, professional voice answered, "Human Resources, this is Karen. How can I help you?"

"Hi, Karen. This is Dr. Tristan Blackwell, the new Chief of Emergency Services. I have a hypothetical situation I need some guidance on.”

"Of course, Dr. Blackwell. What’s the situation?"

Tristan took a deep breath. "Suppose I hired a new physician, and we had a brief personal relationship in the past. We both want to maintain a professional work environment, but I’m concerned about the ethical implications. How should this be handled?"

Karen was silent for a moment, likely absorbing the gravity of his question. "Dr. Blackwell, this is a delicate situation.” She explained the hospital’s process.

Tristan felt a flicker of hope.

"Maintaining strict professionalism at work is key. Avoiding any interactions that could be perceived as favoritism. Transparency is important. The sooner we know, the better we can manage any potential issues."

"Thank you, Karen. This helps a lot. I’ll think about what you’ve said."

"You're welcome, Dr. Blackwell. If you need any further assistance or decide to disclose more details, please don’t hesitate to contact us."

Tristan hung up. He had a clearer idea of the steps he needed to take, but the situation was still fraught with complications. And then it hit him: he didn’t even know how Sophie felt about all of this. Did she have the same lingering feelings? Or was their one night together a forgotten memory for her?

Four

Afew hours after speaking with Chris Skylar and Karen in HR, Tristan found himself staring at Sophie's file, her phone number printed neatly at the top. He took a deep breath, picked up his phone, and dialed. His heart raced as the phone rang, and he hoped he could navigate this conversation with the delicacy it required.

"Sophie Everhart speaking," came her clear, professional voice on the other end.

"Hi, Sophie. It's Tristan Blackwell," he said, trying to keep his voice steady.

There was a brief pause. "Oh, hi, Tristan. Is everything okay?"

"Yes, everything's fine. I just... I wanted to talk to you about something. Can we meet for dinner tonight? There are a few things I’d like to discuss, including... our night together and my conversation with HR."

He could hear the slight catch in her breath. "Are you... are you reconsidering the job offer?"

"No, not at all," he reassured her quickly. "It's nothing like that. I just think we need to have an honest conversation about everything."

There was a pause, and then her voice softened. "Okay. Dinner sounds good. Where and when?"

"There's a nice little place called The Maple Leaf, just a few blocks from the hospital. How about seven PM?"

"That sounds good. I'll see you there," she agreed.

"Great. See you then." Tristan felt a mix of anxiety and anticipation as he ended the call.

* * *

---