Page 85 of Shadows of Recovery

Emma, sitting with a hand on her swollen belly, spoke softly, "Damon and I are expecting our third child soon. It's a blessing, but also a lot of work."

Kay nodded, trying to focus on the conversation despite her growing sense of worry. The more she heard, the more she felt like a fish out of water. This community, with its insular ways and close connections, was so different from anything she had experienced before.

Noreen noticed her discomfort and placed a gentle hand on her arm. "It's a lot to take in, isn't it? But don't worry, dear. You'll find your place here."

Kay forced a smile. "Thank you, Noreen. It's just a bit overwhelming."

"That's understandable," Noreen said kindly. "But we're here to support you. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

As the women continued to chat and share stories, Kay felt a mix of gratitude and apprehension. This was her new life now, and she had to find a way to navigate it. But the presence of Damon Whitlock loomed over her thoughts, a constant reminder of the trauma that had brought her here.

When the women finally left, Kay stood in the quiet cottage, the warmth of their visit lingering in the air. She took a deep breath and steeled herself. She had made her choice, and now she had to live with it. But she couldn't shake the feeling that she was in over her head, and that the challenges ahead would test her in ways she hadn't yet imagined.

Determined to prove herself and find her footing, Kay decided to visit Nathan as soon as possible. She needed to discuss her role, her resources, and, most importantly, her access to medical information. She was going to make this work.

Thirty-Three

Kay showered and dressed. Determined to get a handle on her new environment, she quickly walked to the clinic and stepped inside. The interior was clean and organized, a stark contrast to the frenzy she felt inside.

A woman greeted her with a warm smile. "Hello, Dr. Kay. I'm Eleanor, your nurse."

Kay returned the smile, feeling a small sense of relief. "Nice to meet you, Eleanor."

Eleanor gestured for Kay to follow her. "The Whitlocks paid for me to go to school," she explained as they walked down the hall. "I’m a licensed practical nurse. I’ve been here for a few years now."

Eleanor showed Kay her office. On the desk sat a desktop computer. "We’re setting up electronic medical records and supplies. Caleb is in charge of the internet. You can use it for medical information."

Kay nodded, appreciating the foresight. "What about supplies or personal items that aren’t available in your supermarket or trading post?"

"You’ll need to put together a list," Eleanor explained. "It has to be approved by the family."

Kay made a mental note of the process and then turned to Eleanor. "I’d like to take a look around before I start seeing patients."

"Of course," Eleanor said. "Take your time. If you need anything, I’ll be here."

Kay began her tour, inspecting the various rooms and equipment. So far, they held only basic items. She entered one exam room and paused, her attention caught by a sonogram machine. As she looked closer, she noted the Waverly County Hospital ID tag on it. The same tag was on a monitor and an IV pump.

Her stomach churned as the realization hit her: these were stolen items from the hospital. Why she didn’t think about the hospital robbery, she didn’t know. Legally, she should report this, but she knew doing so could put her at risk and, more importantly, her generous salary. And that mattered to her more. As she stood there, wrestling with her thoughts, the door suddenly opened.

A tall man stood in the doorway, his presence imposing. Kay's pulse quickened, and she felt a surge of unease. She had no exit.

The man smiled, a sinister expression that sent a shiver down her spine. "My, my, another pretty lady doctor, but not as pretty as my Sophie. You must be Dr. Kay. I'm Damon."

His voice was smooth, but his eyes held a malevolent gleam. Kay's instincts screamed at her to be cautious. She forced herself to remain calm and professional.

"Yes, I’m Dr. Birdham," she replied, keeping her tone steady. "It’s… nice to meet you, Damon."

Damon’s smile widened, and he stepped closer, his presence filling the room. "I’ve heard so much about you. It’s not every day we get someone with your credentials."

Kay swallowed hard, her mind racing. "I’m here to help the community in any way I can."

Damon tilted his head, studying her. "You know, you remind me a bit of Sophie. Strong, determined… but she has a certain softness to her. A vulnerability."

Kay felt a surge of anger mixed with fear. "I’m here to do my job. I hope we can work together professionally." She was forty-five and had been a psychiatrist for a long time, but she’d never met a man who creeped her out as much as Damon did.

Damon chuckled, a sound that made her skin crawl. "Oh, I’m sure we will. But let me make something clear, Dr. Kay. This is our world. You play by our rules, and you’ll do just fine."

Kay forced a nod, her heart pounding. "Understood."

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