Friends With Benefits

3

During a surgery with Arizona, Miranda was focused on the procedure while Ben assisted with suction nearby. Despite Miranda's evident disdain for small talk, Ben decided to try his luck.

"So, how did you end up in pediatrics?" he asked

She glanced at him, her expression guarded. "Are you fishing for pointers on picking a specialty?"

He shook his head. "Not exactly. I'm just interested in people's journeys."

Miranda sighed and offered a simple response. "Arizona influenced me."

"It's true. Her husband didn't want her to pursue a fellowship before he passed. I couldn't bear to lose such a promising surgeon, so I worked hard to convince her to join the pediatric team."

Miranda shot Arizona a sharp look but didn't dispute the claim. She then turned to Ben, "Your specialty will speak to you. You will feel like it's who you are made to be."

"Thank you."

During lunch, Ben found himself increasingly curious about Miranda and decided to ask the other interns what they knew about her.

"So, what have you all heard about Bailey?" he inquired, trying to gauge the gossip.

The interns exchanged glances, and one leaned in. "Well, there are a few rumors floating around. I've heard people say that her marriage was pretty shaky before her husband died."

"Yeah, and there's also this wild rumor about her having an affair with Richard Webber. I don't put much stock in it, though."

Ben rolled his eyes at the mention of the affair rumor. "That sounds pretty far-fetched to me. Richard's just a mentor to her. I doubt there's much to that."

They continued discussing Miranda's professional reputation. "But there's no denying her legendary status. Her nickname 'The Nazi' speaks volumes about her tough standards and demanding nature. She's known for pushing everyone to be their best or to a mental breakdown."

After a long day at the hospital, Ben found himself at a bar, unwinding with a meal. As he was enjoying his food, Miranda walked in, her presence immediately noticeable. She approached the bar and ordered a drink, her demeanor relaxed compared to her usual sternness.

Summoning some courage, Ben decided to strike up a conversation. "Hello, Dr. Bailey. Didn't expect to see you here."

To his surprise, she was noticeably pleasant. She looked over at him "As I understand, you've seen me here before."

"How's your day been?" he asked, trying to keep the conversation light.

"It's been one of those days. Long and demanding, but I'm managing. How about you?"

Ben relaxed a bit, appreciating her more approachable tone. "Same here. Busy, but getting through it. A bit amazed you're actually being friendly with me. Didn't expect that."

Miranda chuckled softly and shrugged. "I'm too tired to be stern or ignore you."

"Fair enough."

Miranda took another sip of her drink, clearly trying to unwind. Ben, seizing the moment to clear the air, decided to address the previous awkwardness.

"Look. Dr. Bailey," he started, "I know I've already apologized, but I just wanted to say it again. I'm really sorry about bringing up your husband."

Miranda rolled her eyes but didn't immediately dismiss him. "This again"

"I know I probably shouldn't bring it up again."

"I'm going to share something with you, but it's to make sure you drop the topic of my husband entirely."