CHAPTER 18: Trials and Triumphs

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The news came without warning. Caddion was in the middle of a routine consultation when his phone buzzed with an urgent message from the hospital administration.

A medical board review had been scheduled to scrutinize his methods, following a complaint lodged by an anonymous source.

Caddion felt a chill run down his spine. He had always been meticulous in his work, prioritizing his patients' well-being above all else. What could this be about?

Later that evening, he shared the unsettling news with Percival over dinner. The cozy atmosphere of their apartment, usually a sanctuary from the pressures of their jobs, felt heavy with tension.

"Percival, there's something we need to talk about,"

Caddion began, his voice tinged with worry.

Percival looked up from his plate, concern immediately flashing in his eyes.

"What is it, Caddion?"

Caddion took a deep breath.

"I've been notified that a medical board review is being conducted on my methods. Someone lodged a complaint, and now they're going to scrutinize my work."

Percival reached across the table, taking Caddion's hand in his.

"I'm so sorry, Caddion. Do you have any idea what this is about?"

Caddion shook his head, frustration evident in his expression.

"No. I've always followed protocols and done what's best for my patients. I don't understand what could have prompted this."

Percival squeezed his hand reassuringly.

"We'll get through this together. Whatever it is, we'll face it head-on."

In the days that followed, the hospital was abuzz with rumors and speculation.
Caddion tried to keep his focus on his patients, but the looming review weighed heavily on his mind.
Percival stood by him, offering unwavering support both at home and at the hospital.

One evening, as they sat in their living room going over the details of the case files that would be reviewed, Percival spoke up.

"Caddion, I know this is incredibly stressful, but remember why you became a doctor in the first place. Your dedication to your patients is evident in everything you do."

Caddion sighed, rubbing his temples.

"I know, Percival. It's just hard not to feel...attacked. I've put my heart and soul into my work."

Percival moved closer, wrapping an arm around Caddion's shoulders.

"And that's why you'll get through this. The truth will come out. Just stay strong and be yourself."

The day of the review arrived, and Caddion stood before the board, ready to defend his methods and decisions. Percival sat in the audience, his presence a source of strength for Caddion.
The board members, a mix of seasoned professionals, began their questioning, each inquiry probing deeper into Caddion's practices and decisions.

"Dr. Caddion,"

one of the board members began,

"we have concerns about your handling of certain cases. Can you explain your reasoning behind these decisions?"

Caddion took a deep breath, meeting the board member's gaze steadily.

"My primary concern has always been the well-being of my patients. Each decision I made was based on the best available evidence and tailored to the specific needs of each individual."

The questioning continued, each board member taking their turn. Caddion answered each question with confidence, drawing on his extensive experience and deep knowledge of his field. Throughout the review, he felt Percival's eyes on him, a constant reminder that he was not alone.

After what felt like an eternity, the board called for a recess to deliberate. Caddion left the room, finding Percival waiting for him in the corridor.

"You did great in there,"

Percival said, his voice filled with admiration.

"You were calm, collected, and you showed them exactly why you're such an excellent doctor."

Caddion managed a tired smile.

"I couldn't have done it without you here, Percival. Your support means everything to me."

They waited anxiously for the board's decision. Finally, they were called back into the room.
The head of the board stood up, addressing Caddion directly.

"Dr. Caddion, after thorough consideration, we have found no evidence of misconduct in your methods. Your dedication to your patients is evident, and your decisions were sound and well-founded. We are closing this review with no further action required."

Caddion felt a wave of relief wash over him. He turned to Percival, who was beaming with pride.

"Thank you,"

Caddion said to the board, his voice steady but filled with emotion.

"I appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns."

As they left the room, Percival pulled Caddion into a tight embrace.

"I knew you'd get through this. I'm so proud of you."

Caddion held Percival close, feeling a mixture of relief and gratitude.

"I couldn't have done it without you. Your belief in me kept me going."

That evening, they celebrated quietly at home, the stress of the past weeks melting away.
Over a simple but delicious dinner, they reflected on the experience.

"You know,"

Percival said thoughtfully,

"this whole ordeal has only made us stronger. We've faced a major challenge and come out on the other side even more united."

Caddion nodded, a soft smile on his lips.

"You're right. It's proven that we can withstand anything as long as we have each other."

Percival reached across the table, taking Caddion's hand in his.

"Here's to us, and to whatever the future holds."

Caddion squeezed Percival's hand, his heart full of love and gratitude.

"To us, and to many more trials and triumphs, together."

Their united front had not only helped Caddion navigate the challenging time but had also deepened their bond.

They knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them side by side, their love stronger than ever.

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