As Kerry stepped off the elevator she saw that Kim was already waiting for her by the admit desk, talking with Abby. Kim was wearing a black suit and her hair was tucked back behind one of her ears. She looked so intent listening to Abby that Kerry found herself walking slowly to allow their conversation to continue. As she approached she caught Kim’s eye and the essence of their conversation.

“Well if you do ever want to talk, you can pop over to Rush or I could come by here,” Kim said with a noticeable hint of concern in her voice.

“Dr. Legaspi, are you harassing my resident?”

Abby looked relieved to see Kerry, like the chief of staff had just saved her from a truly uncomfortable conversation.

“Ready for lunch?” Kim asked, a smile having replaced the serious look she held for Abby.

“Sure.”

As they walked towards the cafeteria Kim grew more uncomfortable with every moment of silence between them. It used to be so easy for them to talk.

“Dr. Lockhart. I didn’t even know that she was thinking about it.”

“She was a med student when I first met her,” Kerry responded pushing open the cafeteria door and holding it for Kim. “She was an OB nurse at the time too. Then she had some financial issues and had to drop out. A few years ago she went back, finished her third year and matched here. She’s a good doctor. I’m glad that she went back.”

“She carries a lot of weight on her shoulders,” Kim said as she picked out a sandwich and small salad.

“Did she tell you about her brother?” Kerry asked noticing what Kim had chosen to eat. “What, no chips?”

“I’m trying to cut back. What about her brother?”

“Oh, if she didn’t I don’t know that it’s my place,” Kerry set her tray down on the stainless steel ledge and pulled money out for their lunches. Kim looked as if she was going to protest. “Honestly Kim, I’m the chief of staff. I can afford to buy us lunch.”

They made their way to an empty table and Kim watched as Kerry began opening her carton of milk.