Morgan ran his hand over his face, looking for the words that matched the roiling emotions in his gut. Its like when a tricky case comes across my desk. I didnt set in motion the wheels that caused the person to develop whatever illness or syndrome they have, but I can stop it from getting any worse. Ive got the same feeling now that I get when I miss a diagnosis, when I go the wrong direction and dont get a patient the treatment they need in time.

Monte pushed the plate of cookies away from himself and leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. Were human, Morgan. As much as we wish we werent. As much as some doctors think theyre not. He gave a little snort. We make mistakes.

And other people pay for them. Morgan turned his coffee cup around in a circle on the table. There were plenty of professions where making a mistake might be unfortunate. In Morgans world, a mistake might mean someone lost their life or suffered terrible consequences.

His hand froze on his cup. A mistake. A mistake that cost someone dearly. Hed been looking at cases where people had been diagnosed accurately. What about cases where someone hadnt been? And that had somehow led to negative outcomes. He hadnt looked at that yet.

He shoved his chair back and stood. Monte, as always, youve helped me see this so much more clearly. Thank you.

Montes eyebrows went up. I did?

Absolutely. I think I know why this person is doing what theyre doing and once I know why, Ill be able to figure out who. He picked up his coat and headed toward the front door.

That wasnt exactly my intention. Monte followed after him.

Morgan turned to face him. I know. I understand what youre trying to tell me, too. I swear I will take the time to figure out whats driving me after we catch this guy.

Where are you going now? Monte asked.

Back to the hospital.

CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN

Traffic had cleared by the time Morgan left Montes house and he made good time getting back to the hospital. He parked in the visitors section of the parking lot, preferring that as few people as possible know about this little visit.

After all, hed come here intending to do exactly what hed told Ashley he wouldnt do. He was going to use his privileges at the hospital to find a misdiagnosis. He gritted his teeth. One more promise to Ashley that he was going to break. None of the other ones had ever been about their professional lives, though. This one would stand alone.