Intertwined

Chapter Six

Voilette

I was in the middle of checking a patient's chart when the head nurse, Nurse Jenkins, approached me. "Violette, you're being requested in Dr. Thompson's office," she said with a hint of a smile.

I felt a flutter in my chest. What could Dr. Thompson want to see me about? "Do you know what it's about?" I asked Nurse Jenkins.

She shook her head. "No idea, but I'm sure you'll find out soon enough. Just head on down to his office. You know where it is, right?"

I nodded and headed to the director's office, my mind racing with possibilities. When I arrived, I knocked on the door and waited for his response.

"Enter," Dr. Thompson's warm voice called out.

I took a deep breath and stepped inside. Dr. Thompson, a sixty-nine-year-old man with a kind face and a wealth of experience, smiled warmly as I approached his desk. He had been the director of the hospital for over a decade, and his leadership had earned him the respect and admiration of the entire staff.

"Nurse Lopez, thank you for coming in," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "Please take a seat."

I sat down in one of the plush chairs, trying to calm my nerves. Dr. Thompson leaned back in his chair, a friendly expression on his face. "So, Nurse Lopez, I have some good news for you. The hospital has approved your request for a month's leave."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me. "Thank you, Dr. Thompson. I really appreciate it."

Dr. Thompson nodded. "We're not just approving your leave, Nurse Lopez—we're practically insisting on it. You've been working tirelessly for three years without a break, and we're concerned about burnout. The hospital prioritizes the well-being of its staff, and we don't want anyone to reach the point of exhaustion."

I smiled, feeling grateful for the hospital's commitment to its employees. "Thank you for understanding, Dr. Thompson. I really need this break."

Dr. Thompson leaned forward, his expression sincere. "We're not just doing this out of the goodness of our hearts, Nurse Lopez. We're doing it because we know that happy, healthy staff members are better equipped to provide top-notch care to our patients. We want you to come back refreshed, revitalized, and ready to tackle new challenges."

I nodded, feeling a sense of appreciation for the hospital's support. "Thank you”

*****************************

I walked into the living room, excited to share the news with Aria. But the sight of Alexis's signature style scattered all over the room momentarily interrupted my enthusiasm. Designer bags and shoes were strewn about, and the air was filled with the scent of her favorite perfume.

Just then, Alexis herself emerged from the kitchen, a bright smile on her face, with a glass of juice in hand and Aria right behind her.

“Surprise!" she squeaked, settling the glass on the coffee table before rushing over to hug me."I'm so glad you're home, Violette!"

I laughed, hugging her back. "I'm glad to see you too, Alexis. What's all the... flair?" I gestured to the designer goodies surrounding us.

Alexis giggled. "Just a little something I picked up in Paris. You know me, always dressed to impress." She struck a pose, showcasing her outfit. She was wearing a stunning Dolce & Gabbana dress, paired with Louboutin heels and carrying a Chanel handbag.

Aria rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "You certainly do, sis."

Aria and her siblings are super close, but Alexis is a twin; she and her twin brother Alexei are inseparable.

To be honest, I know little about Alexei, Alexis's twin brother. I've seen him in magazines, where he models for top designer brands like Gucci, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. From what I've gathered, he's quite the charmer, and he and Alexis seem to be incredibly close, almost inseparable. I've heard they're thicker than thieves, and it's clear that their twin bond is strong.

Alexis looks at Aria and me sympathetically. "I was planning on bringing the designer from Milan to Chicago for our measurements, but she canceled last minute," she said, pouting slightly. "So, we'll have to travel to Milan instead!” She says excitedly.

Aria raised an eyebrow. "That's a bit of a hassle, isn't it?"

Alexis nodded. "Yes, but it'll be worth it. We're going to get our measurements taken by none other than Donatella Versace herself. She's designing my dresses and bridesmaids' dresses, and I know she's going to create something truly stunning."

I felt a surge of excitement at the prospect of meeting the legendary designer. "Donatella Versace? That's amazing!" I exclaimed.

Just then, I spilled the beans about my news. "Speaking of exciting things, I have some news to share," I said, a grin spreading across my face. "I just got approved for a month's leave from the hospital."

Alexis's eyes widened in surprise. "A month off? That's fantastic! Thank God, I thought I was going to put you in a difficult situation asking you to be my bridesmaid when you're always busy. I was worried I'd have to find someone else."

Aria chuckled. "You're not getting out of being a bridesmaid that easily, Violette."

I laughed, feeling relieved that my schedule was no longer a concern. "Don't worry, Alexis, I'm happy to be your bridesmaid. And now that I have some time off, I'd actually love to help with the wedding planning."

Alexis raised an eyebrow, with a hint of amusement on her face. "Oh, Violette, you don't have to do that. My wedding planner has everything under control. She's been doing a fantastic job, and I'm confident that everything will be perfect on the big day."

My offer surprised me, but I felt a sudden urge to be more involved. "Are you sure? I'd be happy to help with anything."

Alexis smiled, shaking her head. "No, really, Violette. You've already done enough by agreeing to be my bridesmaid. Just enjoy your time off and let my planner handle the rest. The wedding is in two weeks' time, and I have everything set”

I nodded, feeling a bit disappointed but also relieved that I didn't have to take on any additional responsibilities. "Alright, I'll just focus on being a great bridesmaid then."