Dear Ex Wife Please take me back (Athena and Alex) novel Chapter 143

ATHENA

The room is so silent that you can hear a pin drop.

“In particular, a confidential file from six years ago. One we sealed for legal and ethical reasons.” His eyes lock onto mine for a split second. “We have reason to believe the file was targeted. And whoever accessed it… is someone on staff.”

The air is sucked from the room. Others gasp quietly.

“This meeting is to inform you all that an internal investigation is already underway. All logins and system access will be monitored, and any irregularities will be dealt with swiftly. This hospital was built on trust between staff, patients, and the system we represent. That trust has been compromised.”

He pauses and looks around the room again.

“If anyone has information, now is the time to speak up. Before we find you ourselves and when we do, it won't just end with your license being revoked!”

No one moves.

No one speaks.

He nods once. “That’s all.”

And just like that, he walks out.

The silence he leaves behind is deafening.

Everyone is glued to their seats. Ian stands with a small smile on his face.

“Forgive the harshness from Dr. Quinn. We do have that situation, but it's not meant to threaten or make you feel uneasy. What we are pleading for is your help. If you saw anything out of the ordinary, please don't hesitate to reach out to me or Dr. Dawson.”

My eyes shoot up.

What is he talking about.

“That will be all. Thank you all.” He says, and this time, everyone stands.

“What the fuck was that about?” Zayan asks, his tone irritated. “Did you know?” He checks me.

When I shake my head his face reddens in anger but I place a hand on his arm to stop him.

“Dr. Dawson, a word please.” Ian says and I turn to Zayan,

“You go on ahead. I'll catch up with you.”

“Like hell I will. I won't let them take advantage of you being new and barely having any backing. I've got your back. So you don't need to fear.”

“Someone is feisty and ready to start a war.” Ian mocks Zayan as he steps closer.

“Why would you put her on the spotlight like that?” Zayan takes a step forward but I move faster and block him.

“I’m sure he has a reason.” I tell Zayan quietly, though my voice wavers. I’m not sure if I’m lying to him or to myself.

Ian watches us, with his arms crossed, that ever-present half-smile on his face like he knows something the rest of us don’t.

“What? You want to land punches on me?,” Ian says, “You've fallen so deep huh?”

Zayan’s jaw clenches. I place my hand gently against his chest to keep him grounded.

“I’ll be fine,” I whisper. “Give me a moment.”

He hesitates, his eyes locked on Ian like he’s memorizing his face in case he needs to ruin him later. Then with a reluctant nod, he steps back and leaves the room, casting one final look over his shoulder.

Once we’re alone, Ian turns to face me.

“I used to babysit that punk!” Ian scoffs, rubbing a hand down his jaw. “Now look at him. All grown up and ready to throw fists in a hospital boardroom over you.”

“I don’t have time for your games, Ian. Why did you call me out like that in front of everyone?” I snap, my patience thinning.

“I know you're tired, I'm sorry about bombing you like that but it was the only way for me not to get resistance.”

“Resistance from who?” I ask.

“Some board members.”

“Over what?”

“Helping me with this case. You won't say no. Will you?” He pushes his glasses forward and I roll my eyes.

“That's not how this works, Ian. Besides, why me? Zayan would be of great help.”

He drops the smirk, his eyes narrowing.

“You’re the only person I trust enough to find out who did it before this place turns into a courtroom circus.”

“Me? I joined you recently. I have no idea what file or how your system works.” I respond.

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