One Afternoon

Chapter 2

Third person PoV

Liliana Cromwell was only twenty-seven years old when she was allowed to be the head of a free clinic by a well-known organization. Liliana has always been a kind and compassionate person in everything she does. And when she was told that the clinic would be closed, she made it her mission to try and gather those willing to find the clinic.

"Lily, it's futile. The organization said they wouldn't be able to fund the clinic. What makes you think that anyone else would?" Liliana ignores her boyfriend's remarks.

"We don't know if we never try. George, I've been wondering- why are you so determined that I would fail? You don't know if there's anyone out there that's willing to help me. The clinic is the only way those who can't afford to go to a hospital get their medicine. I can't just let them be." George Cunning sighed as he placed a plate of food in front of her girlfriend.

"Liliana, you were such a talented specialist back in the day. Why are you willing to work for free in a small clinic? You should have explored the medical world in depth instead of worrying about insignificant people. We live in a world where money is more important than people's feelings. Without money, you wouldn't be able to sustain life. Come on, honey. Think about it. The offer from St. Lucas Memorial is still available. They're one of the top hospitals in the country. I'm sure you'll use your skill better than the clinic." Liliana continues to ignore George's words as she looks through the newspaper.

"You're finished? I'm sorry, Georgie, but you weren't in my shoe. How could I leave the people who need help? I can't. I'm a doctor, and it's my duty to help people. Georgie, are you embarrassed to have me by your side? Is that why you never introduce me to your surgeon friends? Because you don't want them to look down on me? Don't you realize what I'm doing is for our society? Don't you think that's an honor for any doctor to do?" George shakes his head no.

"I don't, Lily. What you're doing is far from honorable. You could do so much as a specialist, but no, you have to work at that stupid free clinic." Liliana looked up to George, who then realized what he had said.

"Wait, I'm sorry- no, I didn't mean it that way." Liliana scoffed.

"No, you did mean it. I know you too well, Georgie. You mean everything you said. I'm sorry that I couldn't afford to live in this luxurious apartment like you are. And I'm sorry I couldn't drive a Mercedes'. But I am not sorry that I was happier than ever when I started working at the clinic. Why is it so hard for you to understand that I love my work? Who are you to control what I do for work?" Liliana placed the newspaper down and gathered her things.

"I'm leaving." Georgie sighed.

"You should eat something. Lily, I'm sorry!" Liliana got up from the kitchen island and walked towards the door. George tried to stop his girlfriend from leaving, but his words hurt Liliana.

"Liliana!" Liliana closed the door behind her leaving Geoge alone. George sighed.

"I was only thinking about your future," George said to no one in particular.

AT THE SAME TIME,

Liliana made her way to where her car was and decided to drive to work. Even though she was supposed to go home and rest but after what happened between her and George, she couldn't even rest properly.

When she arrived, she parked her car at the side of the road and was surprised to see one of her colleagues smoking just outside the clinic entrance. Her colleagues were not expected her to be here. 

"Hey, boss, aren't you supposed to have the night shift today? Why are you here?" Liliana smiled.

"I forgot something in the office. Also, didn't you say you want to quit smoking?" Lilliana's colleague only smiled.