Page 25 of Wild Card

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to offend. It’s just that you are kinda our supervisor. “

“We report to the same group of administrators. I’m your mentor and lead therapist. Totally different. I’d like to think we’re friends.”

“You do sign off on our reports,” Lucas points out.

Abe slices his eyes to him. “I also drink beer and hang out with you several times a month.”

It’s my turn to jerk at this snippet of information. “You guys hang out? When?”

“Every time we invite you out to happy hour.”

“You haven’t asked me in months,” I counter.

“Because your rejection was offensive.”

It’s on the tip of my tongue to argue, remind Lucas that I’ve been studying for the exams and picking up extra patients when asked, to soak in every hour of experience possible. But even in my head, it sounds lame.

“Next time, invite me. I may surprise you.”

“Alright, Lo, I’ll hold you to that.”

“Thank you for helping me out on Monday with my patients. Your notes and observations are exemplary. Even better than what I’d chart.” Abe’s compliment sends a rush of pride through me.

“They were all enjoyable to work with.”

His eyes light with what can only be described as delight as his lips curl on one side. “I heard. Talon called me this morning. He and I discussed your session and we agreed.”

The rush of pride vanishes up in smoke. “Agreed?”

“You bring a fresh perspective to his rehab. He’s yours.”

“Mine?”

“Yours.”

My brain scrambles for a way to explain how this is a bad idea without sounding ungrateful. “I couldn’t take him from you.”

“I’m transferring his file.”

“Not necessary. I’m already at full capacity with my clinical load.” The blatant lie couldn’t be more obvious. I’ve never turned down an opportunity to work with any patient.

Abe’s lips form into a thin line. “Did Talon do something to make you uncomfortable?”

“No!” I squeak, basically bolting out of my chair.

The heat of his assessing stare has sweat beading on my neck. “What I mean is, not at all. He was quite the character. I think he was initially miffed at my methods, but by the end, he was definitely improving.”

“That’s exactly why we think you would be good for him.”

“I couldn’t agree more. Lo seemed to make significant progress,” Bex throws in way too enthusiastically.

Sweet Jesus, help me get out of this. And when I do, I’m killing Rebecca.

“Professionally, I disagree. With his history and previous injury, you know his situation much better than I ever could. Time with me can hardly replace your thorough depth of knowledge.”

There, that should do it. Professional, specific, clinical—all reasons Talon Simms should stay with Abe.

Good job, if I do say so.

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