Chapter 10 - THE NURSE WHO REFUSED TO BE BOUGHT
Julian learned the full extent of my financial situation by accident.
Not because he investigated me.
Not because he asked someone to search my records.
But because I collapsed in the kitchen after working nearly twenty hours without eating properly.
When I woke, I was lying on a sofa in the staff lounge.
A doctor had examined me.
Julian stood nearby.
His expression was concerned.
"Clara."
I tried to sit up.
"I'm fine."
He shook his head.
"You're exhausted."
I looked away.
"I've been working extra shifts."
"Why?"
I hesitated.
Then told him.
About Benjamin.
The chemotherapy.
The bills.
The constant fear that I wouldn't be able to keep up.
Julian listened quietly.
Then said:
"Let me help."
I shook my head immediately.
"No."
"Clara—"
"I can't accept money from you."
He paused.
"Why?"
"Because I don't want to owe you anything."
Julian studied me.
Then nodded.
"All right."
I looked surprised.
He continued.
"Then let's find another way."
He arranged for an independent hospital social worker to review Benjamin's coverage and available assistance programs.
He also offered me a more sustainable schedule, with proper rest periods and a second caregiver to share Evelyn's care.
I accepted the schedule changes.
The financial assistance required more thought.
But for the first time, I felt as though someone was helping me solve a problem without trying to own me.
Evelyn noticed the change.
One afternoon, she smiled at me.
"You're sleeping better."
I laughed.
"A little."
She squeezed my hand.
"Good."
Then she added:
"My son looks at you differently."
My face warmed.
"Mrs. Sterling."
She laughed.
"I'm eighty-one, darling. Not blind."
May you like
I shook my head.
But I couldn't stop smiling.
