Arriving at the restaurant, the private dining room was buzzing with energy.
With Jenna and James around, laughter and lively chatter were a given.
They were a bit late, and the two kids had already finished eating, now off playing with Sophia and James’s nanny nearby.
Hey there, Galen! Sherilyn waved them over, Come on in.
Sorry for being late, Joyce apologized with a smile as Galen pulled out a chair for her. Have a seat, he said warmly.
Thanks, Joyce replied, smiling back at him as she took her seat. Galen settled in right beside her.
You two… Sherilyn raised an eyebrow, glancing between them, Did you plan this together?
Not at all, Joyce waved her hand dismissively. I was lucky Galen was around today. I would’ve been lost otherwise, she chattered on about the earlier incident.
Meanwhile, Rebecca White called a waiter over to set a couple of extra place settings and add a few more dishes to the order.
Your brother is quite handy, Joyce said, turning to pat Galen on the shoulder with a grin.
Absolutely, Sherilyn agreed, her eyes twinkling as she glanced between them. And I’m not just saying that because he’s my brother. Galen here is the epitome of a stand-up guy.
Haha, I couldn’t agree more! Joyce nodded enthusiastically, her eyes crinkling with genuine amusement.
Let me introduce you, Sherilyn said, gesturing to the woman next to her. This is Rebecca White… And Rebecca, this is Joyce.
Nice to meet you.
Oh, hi, hi! No need to be so formal! Call me Joyce, and I’ll just call you Rebecca, okay?
Sure, sounds good.
Compared to Sherilyn and Rebecca White, Joyce was more straightforward and lively, her personality shining through with an easy-going charm.
As they chatted, the food started arriving.
Let’s dig in, shall we? Must be starving! Sherilyn encouraged, Rebecca and I were too busy with the kids to eat much, so let’s eat and catch up.
How have you been lately?
Settling in okay at the hospital?
Just then, Joyce’s phone buzzed.
She was busy gnawing on a piece of chicken wing, so she gave Galen a look. Mind helping me out?
Sure, Galen said, reaching into her pocket to retrieve the phone and holding it up to her ear.
Hello? Yes, Dr. Nelson, I got it… I’ll be there as soon as possible!
Joyce’s expression turned serious. There’s been a multi-car accident on the Riverside Bridge, and the ER’s getting a bunch of trauma patients. I’ve got to get back to the hospital right away!
But you haven’t even eaten… Sherilyn frowned, noticing Joyce had barely started.
I’m used to it! Joyce grabbed her bag and stood up. You know how my job is. I’ll see you all later!
She waved at Rebecca White. Let’s meet up again soon!
With that, she spun around, ready to make a quick exit.
I’ll go with you! Galen stood up, glancing at Sherilyn. Her car’s in the shop, so I’ll give her a ride.
No need… Joyce hesitated, I can just grab a cab.
Let Galen drive you! Sherilyn You’re in a hurry, right
at stake. Don’t
it
Alright then!
Su about
swnos
Let’s move.
They dashed out of the room, as swiftly as they had arrived.
Galen drove Joyce to the hospital, where the emergency room was already in full chaos.
Thanks for the lift! Joyce said, hopping out of the car and sprinting inside.
Joyce… Galen called after her, but she was already gone.
Without missing a beat, he followed her into the ER.
Quick!
Inside, Joyce reached for a nurse, Hand me a lab coat!
Here you go, Dr. Cooper!
Joyce shrugged on the lab coat,
dropped to her knees, and began et
CPR on an unconscious patient, her armsmoving with practicedo precision.