Patterson walked into the Eden Park Hotel, his face reflected the bad mood he was in. The same woman with red hair was at the reception desk. “Can I help you?” she said in a friendly manner. “I think you have a room reserved for me.” “Your name, please?” “Dr. Patterson.” The receptionist opened a large book. “Yes, we do. Room 205.” She took a key on a wooden key ring and offered it to him. “Mrs. Vucci will be twenty minutes late. She called a little earlier.” Simon felt faint from embarrassment. Never before had he met a woman in a hotel. “Sorry, Simon. Carlo was home when I was leaving. I couldn’t just go.” She sat on the bed next to him. “It’s OK. I’ve got plenty of time. I’ve been fired.” “What? From the hospital? I don’t believe it.” “You’d better start believing. But I don’t care about the hospital. When I prove my innocence, they’re sure to call me back and I—” “Of course, Simon. Everything will work out.” She took his hand and squeezed it gently.
