“Miss McKinney is—”

The assistant hardly got one more word in before the shrill sound of high heels stabbing the floor reverberated throughout the hall. Its fitful beat was indicative of the wearer’s frazzled concern.

“Brendaaaan!” Charlene called out frantically, her fingers gripping her handbag. “Why aren’t you lying on your bed right now?! Did you listen to what the doctor said? You’re in no shape to walk around, darling! You must get on with the operation and take a long break!”

Not a hin