Chapter 119

Evelyn Hartley took a slow sip of her morning coffee, her face an unreadable mask. A faint, knowing smirk played at the corners of her lips.

She blinked once, processing the situation. So, this was how it was going to be. Initially, only the Cardiac Surgery Department had known about her connection to Sebastian Holloway securing her position at Grand Oaks General Hospital. But now, thanks to some well-placed whispers, the rumor had spread like wildfire through every corridor and break room.

Yet, Evelyn remained unshaken.

After finishing her breakfast, she made her way back to her department. As she changed into her scrubs in the locker room, the door creaked open.

"Evelyn."

The voice belonged to Elise Thornton, a thirty-three-year-old resident on Vivian Cross's team. The two women had always shared a friendly dynamic.

"Elise."

Evelyn acknowledged her with a nod.

Elise stepped closer, lowering her voice. "There's been a lot of talk today—mostly about you. They're saying you only got this job because of Mr. Holloway, and people aren't happy about it."

Evelyn continued fastening her white coat, her expression cool. "I caught wind of it over breakfast."

"And?" Elise pressed, concern flickering in her eyes. "What do you think?"

Evelyn shrugged lightly, her composure unwavering. "Not much to think about. I just need to do my job."

Elise exhaled, impressed. "You handle pressure better than anyone I know. If it were me, I’d be a mess."

She glanced around before leaning in further. "I think Dr. Pierce might be behind this."

Evelyn turned to face her fully, interest sharpening at the mention of Dominic Pierce.

Elise kept her voice hushed. "You're new here, Evelyn, so you might not know this yet, but Dr. Pierce is brilliant in the OR—flawless, really—but he’s also stubborn as hell. Ever since you suggested Dr. Star for the Kingsley surgery, he’s had it out for you. And your ties to Mr. Holloway don’t help—he and Dr. Pierce have never gotten along."

She paused, then added, "Put those two things together, and it’s no surprise he’d hold a grudge. And with the rumors spreading like this? Someone’s definitely stirring the pot on purpose."

Evelyn gave a small, measured nod. "Thanks for the heads-up, Elise."

"Don’t mention it. We’re on the same team, after all." Elise offered a reassuring smile before slipping out.

Evelyn’s gaze darkened as she considered the implications. She had no doubt Lila Sinclair was involved in this orchestrated gossip. And if Lila and Dominic were working together, this was only the beginning.

She adjusted her coat one last time, then stepped out of the locker room, ready for whatever came next.