Chapter II: The Gatekeeper’s Fury
Marching over from the administrative suite was Victoria Cross, the hospital’s Chief Operations Administrator. Dressed in a tailored charcoal blazer, slate trousers, and a sharp silk blouse, Victoria carried a digital tablet with the aura of someone who viewed ordinary people as statistical nuisances.
"You can’t just walk in and see the director," Victoria cut in sharply, her tone dripping with condescension as she looked Clara up and down.
Emily turned to her supervisor with a gentle, pleading expression: "She only needs five minutes, Mrs. Cross. I can check if Dr. Sterling has a brief opening before his ten o'clock rounds."
"No," Victoria snapped, crossing her arms. She turned toward Clara with undisguised contempt: "Ma'am, you’ll have to leave. The executive offices are restricted to credentialed donors, board members, and scheduled dignitaries. This is a private healthcare network, not a walk-in community shelter."
Emily stood her ground, stepping out from behind the reception desk to stand beside the elderly woman.
"Let me call upstairs first," Emily insisted, reaching for the desk phone. "It won't hurt to ask."
Victoria stepped into Emily’s personal space, her voice dropping into a harsh, venomous whisper:
"Don't. You’re suspended."
Emily froze, her hand hovering over the receiver in shock.