Page 72 of The Ampersand Effect

TOBIN—8:07 a.m.

How’s your day going? Do you have a

busy day?

Tobin brushed her teeth and splashed some water on her face, hoping to rinse away the bone-deep grogginess that clung to her. Erik had just popped his head into the bunk room to let her know they’d accepted a transfer later that morning—an eight-year-old girl with compromised lung function secondary to pneumonia, headed for Aetheridge Children’s Hospital. If she timed it right, Tobin hoped she might surprise Grier.

She didn’t want to intrude on Grier at work—especially nothaving discussed if there should be such boundaries—but she wanted to see her. Badly.

Work had kept her distracted enough these past few days, but she was definitely ready to be done with these blackout periods. The game of questions had been fun, and she enjoyed getting to know Grier through it, but she craved more access to her.

Still, a flicker of disappointment tugged at her. For all of Grier’s earlier boldness, there’d been no invitation to see each other again, no follow-up spark. Tobin had grown used to Grier’s fearless pursuit— and thrilled at her own ability to volley it back, teasing and suggestive. She was a little hurt by the sudden lack of intention. Maybe a little visual reminder today would be just what they need to stoke the embers Tobin was itching to feel ignite again.

Her phone buzzed on the bathroom sink.

GRIER—8:13 a.m.

Just finished grand rounds. I’m fairly positive

I just accidentally uncovered my brother’s

secret girlfriend—so that’s cool. And no one

saved me a doughnut in the break room, so I

have nothing to absorb my coffee and secret-

induced jitters until lunchtime. So… my day is

starting off fabulous.

Grier’s detailed answers floored Tobin, making her feel as though she genuinely cared about her responses and wanted Tobin to honestly learn what made her tick.

Still, the first part of the text held more weight. Tobin suspected it was where Grier needed the conversation to go.

TOBIN—8:19 a.m.

I’m stuck on the secret girlfriend

comment… there has to be more to that

story, right?

GRIER—8:21 a.m.

Definitely. But it’s too much to text. I’ll fill

you in in person.

Grier’s hint at another date sent a wave of relief crashing over Tobin, her heart kicking up in a rush of adrenaline. She took the bait.

TOBIN—8:23 a.m.

In person, huh? Like, as in a date?

GRIER—8:23 a.m.

Yes, obviously.