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“Yeah, I saw the blood on her ears,” she muttered. “Nicely done.”

I thanked her and focused back on the ones waiting for me.

The portal closed and that worried me, but twenty minutes later it opened back up for a bit and our warlocks came through saying that was it. NYC’s EMS handled the rest and a lot of the injuries were more superficial than originally believed.

Awesome.

I cleared the rest of the shifters and went looking for the cheetah to help her get back to her human form and thentreated. I thanked the nurse who had stayed with her and helped, glad she even thought ahead to grab something for the patient to wear since her clothes were toast.

The cheetah was feeling better and affectionate since she knew I would be the one who would help her. She rubbed her face against my hand and her tail along my body.

And that was what Ellie walked up on.

Fuck.

She took in the scene and probably the way I froze. “We need you back inside when you’re done here doing whatever you’re doing, Dr. Clark.”

I did my best to keep my voice even. “I’ll be there as soon as I get this patient to shift back, Ms. Reed.”

She looked like she had some choice words for me before turning away and heading back inside.

Fuck.

I did what I needed to, glad that it was as painless as possible for the woman. Then the nurse helped me get her inside and took over so the patient was all checked in.

“Dr. Clark, wait,” the woman said as I turned to leave, reaching and grabbing my wrist.

I focused on her but gently detangled myself from her. “I have to jump back in.”

“I know. I just wanted to say thank you and I’m sorry that I didn’t trust you,” she said sheepishly.

I gave her a kind smile. “I more than understand. Most can’t do what I can. Forcing a shift is dangerous and painful if not done correctly.” I patted her arm. “I’m glad you’ll be just fine.” I thanked the nurse again and hurried off.

Things were already being cleaned up and shifting to move past the crisis. I jumped in to help on surgeries since I didn’t have patients like other doctors.

“I saw what you did with that patient,” Dr. James said as we were scrubbing out. “It was impressive. Hopefully, now that this HR nightmare will be handled, we can make a time for you to lecture and get everyone on the same page.”

“Thank you, sir,” I said, not having seen him a few sinks down. “Yes, sharing the change and what I’ve found is important but also the parameters.”

“What do you mean?” Dr. Carpenter asked from the sink next to him… And Fitz was next to him.

I ignored that and answered the department head. “Part of the problem with forcing a shift is it was one trick the Alphas had, and when holding a hammer, all they saw were nails. So it’s not only teaching people it can be done safely but when to do it. It’s definitely not every injury or a cure for any problem like even some at my last hospital assumed.”

“No, nothing is that perfect or—we might have magic but never miracles,” he agreed. “We didn’t have one injury from a shifter changing forms in two different crises. That’s the first time, and it’s all because of you, pup. Keep up the good work. You’re definitely the right fit for ASH.”

“Thank you, sir.”

Just in case my parents heard about the problem in NYC or that ASH was involved, I texted them both that I didn’t go to the scene and our part was wrapping up. Then I jumped into another surgery and was dead on my feet after that.

“I appreciate the help,” Dr. Carpenter said as he saw me coming out with the others. “I know you’re not taking patients yet, but I’m pretty sure you had a full day planned. What did this mess up?”

My eyes went huge. “Oh shit. Mum.” I ripped off the surgical mask and fumbled with my phone.

“I wish my kids were so respectful of my time and cared to communicate with me,” Dr. Carpenter joked. “You were having dinner with her or something?”

“No, she talked Ms. Reed into letting her set up the offices I’m taking over,” I muttered. “She was coming here from London.” I felt everyone there wince and practically pray for me.

“I’m here and finishing up, my youngest,” Mum said as the call connected. “You were saving lives. Come and see what has been done and do not yell at me for moving forward.”