Ch 20

The morning of the interview felt like walking into a storm. Even though I'd been working at Mount Sinai for a few weeks, nerves still clawed at my stomach as I entered the conference room. I told myself it was just an interview — standard procedure — but the moment I saw kuya Raymond sitting quietly at the end of the table, a small smirk on his face, my heart skipped.

"Kuya..." I whispered under my breath to myself. Why is he here?

I took a deep breath and sat down, trying to focus on Dr. Henderson, who smiled warmly and began the standard questions. I answered as best I could, but every time my eyes flicked toward kuya Raymond, I could feel the weight of his gaze, like he was silently grading me. My words faltered slightly, my confidence wobbling just a bit more than I liked.

Lea's text vibrated in my pocket, and I sneaked a glance: You've got this, hon. Just breathe. I smiled faintly at the message, grateful for her calm, grounding presence even from afar.

Questions flew at me — scenarios, leadership dilemmas, team management hypotheticals. I answered each one, trying to keep my voice steady, trying to ignore the small surge of panic whenever kuya Raymond's eyebrow arched or he scribbled something on his notepad.

Finally, Dr. Henderson leaned back and smiled. "Dr. De Torre, thank you for your time today. I hope you understand this was mostly procedural — we've already made our decision."

I froze. "Wait... what do you mean?"

"The position," Dr. Henderson said, eyes glinting, "was always intended for you. We wanted to observe, make sure you were ready to step into this role. Consider it a formality — and a test you passed brilliantly."

I blinked, trying to process. My gaze shifted to Raymond, whose smirk had widened into a full, triumphant grin. He gave me a subtle wink, just enough to let me know he'd been behind the whole setup, watching me, making sure I could handle the pressure.

I exhaled, a mix of relief and disbelief flooding me. "So... I'm it? I've got the job?"

"Yes, Dr. De Torre," Dr. Henderson said kindly. "Welcome to your new role as Residency Program Head."

Kuya Raymond leaned back in his chair, eyes sparkling with mischief. "See, bunso? No competition. I just needed to fry your nerves a bit."

I laughed, part incredulous, part exasperated. "Kuya... I can't believe you! Seriously. Seriously."

He shrugged, still grinning. "All part of the process. You did perfectly, bunso. You're ready. And I wouldn't have it any other way. I've always got your back."

I leaned back, letting the tension drain out of me. Relief, pride, and a little amusement mingled together. I'd earned this — even if it hadn't felt like it until the very end. And knowing kuya Raymond had orchestrated it all behind the scenes... well, it stung a little, but in the best possible way. I gave a hug and he ruffled my hair then we said our good-byes because he had other meetings to attend.

Leaning against the conference table, I let out a long, happy sigh.

I practically ran out of Mount Sinai that afternoon, adrenaline still thrumming through my veins. The crisp New York air never felt so good, or so freeing, as I hailed a cab back to our apartment. By the time I stepped inside, my bag slung over my shoulder, I was practically vibrating with excitement.

"Honey!" I called, dropping my keys onto the counter. "You will not believe what just happened!"

Lea appeared from the kitchen, a mischievous grin already on her face. "Let me guess, hon... you finally discovered a secret tunnel between floors?"

I laughed, shaking my head. "Even better! The Residency Program Head position? I'm... I'm officially it, honey!"

Her eyes widened, and then she let out a delighted laugh, spinning around to hug me. "Hon! That is amazing! I knew you could do it! Oh my God, I'm so proud of you!"

I leaned into her embrace, savoring the warmth. "Honey... I can't believe it. I mean... I knew I worked hard, but still... it feels surreal. And kuya Raymond! That sly devil... he was behind it all!"

Lea smirked, brushing a strand of hair from my face. "Hon, that explains a lot. I bet he had a little fun seeing you squirm."

I groaned, pretending indignation but laughing anyway. "Honey, he fried my nerves! Fried them! I thought I might hyperventilate. But... now it's official. I'm... me, heading the residency program. Can you believe it?"

She wrapped her arms around my waist, pulling me close. "I believe it, hon. And I also believe that deserves a proper celebration tonight. Pizza? Wine? Or maybe a little dancing in the living room?"

I grinned, feeling the tension of the day melt completely. "Honey, all of the above. And maybe some bragging rights about being amazing."

Lea laughed, planting a quick kiss on my temple. "You're amazing, hon. But don't forget... you've got me here to remind you every day."

I leaned back against her, closing my eyes for a moment, letting her warmth sink in. "Honey... having you here... it makes everything easier. All the stress, all the nerves, all the long hours. I couldn't have done it without you."

She kissed the tip of my nose, smiling. "And I'll be here, hon. Every single step. Residency Program Head, Chief of Banter, Queen of My Heart — whatever you need, honey. I've got you."

I chuckled, resting my forehead against hers. "Honey... I think I could get used to this. Being celebrated, supported... maybe even spoiled a little."

Lea smirked, eyes sparkling. "Oh, hon... you have no idea. Now, let's eat, dance, and make sure the city knows who the real Residency Program Head is — you."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Honey, I think the world already knows. But it feels so good to hear it from you."

And there, in the cozy glow of our apartment, I realized that no matter how high the stakes, how big the titles, or how crazy the city got, I had everything I needed. Because I had her. Always