Chapter 4 - Playing the Game
The next morning, the sun broke over Lake Michigan, casting a pale gold light across the manicured lawns of the Hale estate.
At 8:00 AM, Dr. Harrison arrived for his morning rounds, wearing a sharp Italian suit under his white lab coat, carrying a leather briefcase.
Roman was standing by the window of Ethan’s room, holding a cup of black coffee. Victor Vance stood near the doorway, holding an iPad, going over the weekly shipping manifests for Hale Holdings’ freight division.
“Ah, Roman,” Dr. Harrison said smoothly, adjusting his wire-rimmed glasses. “Good morning. How is our patient today?”
“Same as always, Doctor,” Roman said, not turning around. “Quiet.”
Victor sighed sympathetically. “It’s tough, boss. But Harrison says the new brain scans show stability. That’s something, right?”
“Yes,” Roman said, turning slowly. His eyes swept over Victor, then landed on Dr. Harrison. “Stability is very important to me, Victor. Isn't that right, Doctor?”
“Of course, Mr. Hale,” Harrison said, pulling a syringe from his case. “I’m just going to administer Ethan’s morning neuro-enhancer. Helps with muscle spasticity.”
Claire entered the room carrying a stack of fresh linens. She kept her head down, acting the part of the quiet, invisible maid. But as she passed Roman, her hand brushed against his coat, dropping a small, concealed vial into his pocket.
It was the sample of the night drug she had secretly drawn from Ethan’s IV tube three hours earlier while the night nurse was making tea.
“Doctor,” Roman said, taking a step toward Harrison. “I’ve been thinking. I’d like to bring in an independent toxicology team from Johns Hopkins to run a full panel on Ethan’s blood next week.”
Dr. Harrison’s hand twitched slightly over the syringe. He masked it instantly with a warm, professional smile. “Roman, we’ve run dozens of panels. Bringing in outside teams will only stress Ethan’s system. As his primary physician, I strongly advise against unnecessary interventions.”
“I agree with the doctor, Roman,” Victor added quickly, stepping forward. “We don't want to mess with a routine that’s keeping him stable. Mercer’s crews have been quiet on the south side lately; you need to focus on the harbor deal.”
Roman looked at Victor. He saw the subtle exchange of glances between his lieutenant and the doctor. It was so faint that three days ago, he would have missed it entirely.
“You’re right, Victor,” Roman said, his voice chillingly pleasant. “Focus is everything.”
He looked toward Claire. “Claire, clean the counter and leave us.”
May you like
“Yes, Mr. Hale,” Claire said softly. She caught Ethan’s eye for a fraction of a second, giving him a microscopic nod, before walking out.
Roman watched her leave. She has the nerve of a high-stakes gambler, he thought. Underneath that soft exterior is iron.
