SAVING GRACE II - HEAD AND HEART

RUMOURS

Gregory strolled through the hospital corridor towards the nurses' station, where Olivia was enjoying her morning coffee. He greeted her with a smile, "Morning, Olivia."

"Dr. Slater."

"How's the patient doing today?"

Olivia checked the file and replied, "Everything looks good, doctor." She passed the file to Gregory, who reviewed it briefly before returning it to her. "She's ready to be discharged this morning." Olivia handed him the necessary forms, which he signed. "Thank you."

Olivia gave him a puzzled frown, but before he could leave, Charlotte Golding hurriedly approached him from behind. "Dr. Slater!"

He turned to face her. "Dr. Golding."

"Can we have a quick chat?"

"Of course." He led the way down the hallway towards the gallery that overlooked the hospital lobby, while Charlotte headed towards the railing.

"Dr. Slater, there's a rumor circulating that we're in a relationship."

"I didn't start it."

"Then who did?" Charlotte asked, clearly irritated.

"You should ask Dr. Perry, Sloan, and the new surgeon from Italy."

"So, you're aware of it?"

"I am, but I didn't initiate it," Gregory replied defensively.

"Goodness. You doctors should keep your personal issues at home."

Gregory watched as Charlotte walked away, visibly upset.

"Yeah, easier said than done."

As he watched her go, Gregory couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. He knew that rumors and gossip were an unfortunate part of working in a close-knit environment like a hospital, but he never intended for things to spiral out of control like this.

As he turned to leave the gallery, Gregory couldn't shake the feeling that things were about to get even more complicated. He knew that he needed to address the situation head-on before it got out of hand, but he also knew that navigating the delicate balance between work and personal life was easier said than done. 

*****

Julia stood at the surgery schedule board, reviewing her surgeries for the day and enjoying a cup of coffee from the cafeteria. Alessandra approached her, crossing her arms over her chest.

"Good morning," Julia greeted her with a smile.

"Good morning. I noticed we have a surgery together this afternoon."

"Yes."

Alessandra looked at Julia with confusion. "Can I ask you something?"

"What do you want to ask?" Julia replied, somewhat suspicious.

I'm confused. Someone told me yesterday that Dr. Slater is dating Dr. Golding, but I saw you and Dr. Slater arrive at the hospital together this morning."

"No, I'm the one dating Dr. Slater. Is that a problem?"

"No, I thought he was single until Dr. Sloan told me."

"Dr. Sloan told you?" Julia couldn't understand why Rory Sloan would misinform Alessandra about Gregory and Charlotte Golding's relationship outside of work.

"Yes."

Julia's mind raced as she tried to make sense of the situation. Why would Rory Sloan, a respected colleague and friend, spread false information about her relationship with Gregory? It didn't make any sense. "I'm sorry, Alessandra, but I think there might be some misunderstanding here," Julia said, her voice tinged with concern. "Gregory and I have been dating for a while now, and I can assure you that he is not involved with Dr. Golding."