Novel : Hope & Heartbeats

CHAPTER 04

The weeks passed quickly at St. James Memorial Hospital, each day blending into the next in a blur of surgeries, consultations, and late-night shifts. Kenna threw herself into her work with relentless determination, determined to prove herself not only to her colleagues but also to Barron. Though she tried to convince herself that his opinion didn’t matter—that she was here for her career, not for him—his quiet presence lingered like a shadow she couldn’t shake.

Barron continued to watch over her from afar, offering guidance when needed but never overstepping. He assigned her challenging cases, knowing she could handle them, and praised her progress during staff meetings. To anyone else, their interactions might have seemed purely professional. But Kenna knew better. There was an undercurrent of something deeper—a tension that crackled between them whenever they were in the same room.

Despite her efforts to ignore it, Barron’s kindness gnawed at her resolve. Every time he stepped in to help her or offered words of encouragement, she felt a pang of gratitude—and guilt. She didn’t want to depend on him, yet she couldn’t deny how much his support meant to her. It was infuriating, confusing, and… comforting.

One Friday afternoon, after a particularly grueling week, Kenna found herself summoned to Barron’s office. Her stomach tightened as she approached the door, unsure what to expect. Had she made a mistake? Was he dissatisfied with her performance?

She knocked softly, and his voice called out from within. “Come in.”

Steeling herself, Kenna pushed open the door and stepped inside. Barron sat behind his desk, his white coat draped neatly over the back of his chair. Papers were scattered across the surface, but his attention was focused entirely on her.

“Dr. Will,” he said, gesturing for her to sit. “Please, close the door.”

Kenna obeyed, her heart racing as she lowered herself into the chair opposite him. “Is everything alright, Dr. James?”

Barron leaned forward slightly, his expression serious but not unkind. “Everything is fine. I wanted to discuss your progress. You’ve been doing exceptional work here, Kenna. Your dedication is commendable.”

Relief washed over her, though she kept her expression neutral. “Thank you. I’m just trying to do my best.”

“You’re succeeding,” Barron replied, his tone warm. “But there’s something else we need to address.”

Kenna stiffened, her mind racing with possibilities. What had she done wrong? Had someone complained about her? She opened her mouth to ask, but Barron cut her off before she could speak.

“My mother wants to meet you,” he said abruptly.

Kenna blinked, stunned. “Your… mother?”

“Yes,” Barron confirmed, leaning back in his chair. “She’s hosting a dinner this weekend for some of the hospital’s key donors and board members. As my protégé, it would reflect well on both of us if you attended.”

Kenna hesitated, caught off guard by the request. A formal dinner with Barron’s family and influential figures? That wasn’t part of her plan. She had worked hard to keep her personal and professional lives separate, and this invitation blurred those lines in ways she wasn’t prepared for.

“I’m not sure that’s a good idea,” she said cautiously. “I don’t think I’d fit in with your… crowd.”

Barron frowned, clearly displeased by her response. “Don’t sell yourself short, Kenna. You belong here as much as anyone else.”

“It’s not about belonging,” Kenna argued, her voice tinged with frustration. “It’s about priorities. My focus is on my patients, not social events.”

Barron sighed, running a hand through his hair. For the first time, Kenna saw a flicker of vulnerability in his usually composed demeanor. “This isn’t just about networking, Kenna. My mother has heard about you—from me—and she’s curious. If you decline, it will raise questions. Questions neither of us needs right now.”

Kenna’s stomach sank. She hadn’t considered the political implications of refusing such an invitation. Still, the thought of facing Barron’s mother filled her with unease. From what little she knew of the James family, they were wealthy, influential, and deeply traditional. Someone like her—a girl from a modest background who had fought tooth and nail for every opportunity—wouldn’t exactly fit their image of perfection.

“Fine,” she relented finally, though her voice lacked enthusiasm. “I’ll go. But don’t expect me to charm anyone.”

A small smile tugged at the corners of Barron’s lips. “Just be yourself, Kenna. That’s all I ask.”

The following evening, Kenna stood outside the grand estate where the dinner was being held, her nerves stretched taut. She wore a simple black dress she had borrowed from a friend, feeling painfully out of place among the sea of designer gowns and tailored suits. As she climbed the marble steps and entered the opulent mansion, she reminded herself why she was here: to represent the hospital, not to impress anyone.

Inside, the room buzzed with conversation. Waiters circulated with trays of champagne, and elegant chandeliers cast soft light over the polished floors. Kenna scanned the crowd, searching for Barron, but instead, her eyes landed on an older woman standing near the fireplace. Her resemblance to Barron was unmistakable—the same sharp features, the same commanding presence—but her gaze was cold, calculating.

“Ah, Dr. Will,” Barron’s voice came from behind her. “There you are.”

Kenna turned to see him approaching, looking effortlessly handsome in a dark suit. Relief flooded through her at the sight of him, though she masked it with a polite smile.

“Dr. James,” she greeted him, her tone formal. “You look… nice.”

“As do you,” he replied, his eyes lingering on her face for a moment too long. Then, clearing his throat, he gestured toward the older woman. “Allow me to introduce my mother, Evelyn James.”

Kenna’s breath hitched as Mrs. James stepped forward, her piercing gaze sweeping over Kenna from head to toe. Up close, she looked even more intimidating—her perfectly coiffed hair, her expensive jewelry, her air of superiority.

“So this is the famous Dr. Will,” Mrs. James said, her tone clipped. “Barron has spoken highly of you.”

“All good things, I hope,” Kenna replied, forcing a smile despite the chill in the air.

Mrs. James raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a faint smirk. “We’ll see. Tell me, Dr. Will, where did you grow up?”

Kenna hesitated, sensing the question was less about curiosity and more about judgment. “In the city,” she answered vaguely. “Not far from here.”

“And your family?” Mrs. James pressed, taking a sip of her wine. “What do they do?”

Kenna clenched her fists subtly, fighting the urge to snap. “My mother is a homemaker, and my brother is still in school. I support them.”

Mrs. James’s expression hardened, confirming Kenna’s worst fears. “How admirable,” she said dryly. “Though I imagine it must be difficult balancing such responsibilities with your career.”

“It’s manageable,” Kenna replied evenly, refusing to let the older woman rattle her. “I’ve always believed that hard work pays off.”

“Indeed,” Mrs. James murmured, though her tone suggested otherwise. Then, turning to Barron, she added, “Well, Barron, I’ll leave you two to mingle. Do try to introduce Dr. Will to some of our guests, won’t you?”

As Mrs. James walked away, Kenna exhaled sharply, her shoulders relaxing slightly. “Charming woman,” she muttered under her breath.

Barron chuckled softly, placing a reassuring hand on her arm. “Ignore her, Kenna. She doesn’t know you yet.”

“She knows enough,” Kenna countered, glancing down at his hand. His touch sent a shiver down her spine, but she quickly pulled away, reminding herself of the line she was trying so desperately to maintain.

“She doesn’t understand what makes you special,” Barron said firmly, his gaze unwavering. “But I do. And that’s what matters.”

Kenna swallowed hard, her heart pounding. His words stirred something deep within her—something she wasn’t ready to confront. She forced a smile, changing the subject. “So, who should I meet next?”

Barron hesitated, clearly sensing her discomfort, but eventually nodded. “Follow me. Let’s get this over with.”

As they moved through the crowd, Kenna couldn’t shake the feeling that Barron’s mother had already judged her—and found her lacking. Yet, despite the weight of Mrs. James’s disapproval, Kenna clung to one truth: Barron believed in her. And for now, that was enough.

The rest of the evening passed in a haze of polite smiles and forced small talk. Kenna followed Barron around the room, meeting donors, board members, and other hospital staff who mingled with the elite crowd. Each introduction felt like walking a tightrope—balancing professionalism with humility while trying not to let her nerves show. She could feel Mrs. James’s disapproving gaze lingering on her from across the room, but she refused to let it rattle her. Instead, she focused on Barron, drawing strength from his quiet presence beside her.

As they moved between groups, Barron subtly steered her away from conversations that might make her uncomfortable. He introduced her strategically, highlighting her achievements and deflecting any probing questions about her background. It was clear he was shielding her—not just from his mother’s judgment, but from the scrutiny of others as well.

“You’re doing great,” he murmured during a brief lull, leaning close enough for only her to hear. “Just breathe.”

Kenna glanced at him, startled by how attuned he seemed to her unease. His voice was soft, reassuring, and it sent a jolt of warmth through her despite the chill in the air. “I’m fine,” she replied quickly, though her fingers trembled slightly as she adjusted the strap of her clutch. “It’s just… overwhelming.”

“I know,” Barron said gently, his eyes searching hers. “But you don’t have to face it alone. I’m here.”

His words lingered in her mind, stirring emotions she had buried deep. She wanted to believe him—to trust that he would always stand by her—but fear held her back. Trust meant vulnerability, and vulnerability meant risking pain. And Kenna couldn’t afford pain—not now, not ever.

Later that night, after most of the guests had left, Kenna found herself standing on the mansion’s sprawling balcony, seeking refuge from the suffocating atmosphere inside. The cool night air brushed against her skin, soothing her frazzled nerves. Below, the city lights twinkled like stars scattered across the horizon. For a moment, she allowed herself to breathe, to let go of the tension that had gripped her all evening.

“You looked like you needed some air,” a familiar voice said behind her.

Kenna turned to see Barron stepping onto the balcony, closing the glass doors softly behind him. He carried two glasses of wine, offering one to her with a faint smile.

“Thanks,” she said, accepting the glass but hesitating before taking a sip. “I didn’t think anyone noticed.”

“I notice everything when it comes to you,” Barron replied, his tone light but layered with meaning.

Kenna froze, her heart skipping a beat. She stared at him, unsure how to respond. Was he flirting? Or was this just another example of his kindness—a way of making her feel seen?

“Why do you do that?” she asked finally, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Do what?” Barron prompted, raising an eyebrow.

“Notice me,” Kenna clarified, turning back to the view to avoid his gaze. “You’ve done so much for me—helped me, supported me, protected me—and I still don’t understand why. Why me?”

Barron stepped closer, his presence filling the space between them. “Because you deserve it, Kenna. Because you remind me of what it means to fight for something greater than yourself. Because…” He paused, his voice softening. “Because I care about you.”

Kenna’s breath hitched, and she quickly looked away, focusing on the rim of her wine glass. His admission hung in the air, heavy with unspoken implications. She wanted to ask him to clarify—to tell her exactly what he meant—but fear kept her silent. What if his feelings were more than she could handle? What if she wasn’t ready?

“You shouldn’t,” she whispered finally, her voice trembling. “You shouldn’t care about me like that. I’m not… I’m not someone you should waste your time on.”

Barron frowned, clearly taken aback by her response. “Is that what you think? That caring about you is a waste of time?”

“No!” Kenna exclaimed, shaking her head. “That’s not what I meant. It’s just… you’re Barron James. You’re smart, successful, wealthy. And I’m… me. I’ll never fit into your world.”

“Who says I want you to fit into my world?” Barron countered, his tone firm but gentle. “I love who you are, Kenna—the woman who fights for her dreams, who cares deeply about others, who refuses to give up no matter how hard things get. That’s who I admire. That’s who I care about.”

Tears pricked at the corners of Kenna’s eyes, and she blinked rapidly to keep them at bay. His words stirred something within her—something she had long denied: the desire to be loved for who she truly was, not for what she could achieve or become.

“But your mother—” she began, her voice breaking.

“Forget my mother,” Barron interrupted, stepping even closer. “Her opinion doesn’t matter to me. Not when it comes to you.”

Kenna swallowed hard, her chest tightening with emotion. She wanted to believe him—to let herself imagine a future where Barron’s love was real, where she didn’t have to choose between her career and her heart. But the risks were too high. If she let him in—if she allowed herself to fall for him—what happened if it all fell apart?

“I can’t,” she whispered, shaking her head. “Not now. My career… it has to come first.”

Barron studied her for a long moment, his expression softening. Then, with a small sigh, he nodded. “Alright. I won’t push you. But remember this, Kenna: whenever you’re ready, I’ll be here. Waiting.”

His words settled over her like a warm blanket, comforting yet bittersweet. She wanted to thank him, to tell him how much his patience and understanding meant to her, but instead, she simply nodded, unable to find the right words.

They stood together in silence for a while, the city stretching out before them like a canvas of possibilities. Though their conversation had ended, the tension between them remained—a quiet pull that neither of them could ignore.

When Kenna finally returned home that night, she sat on the edge of her bed, staring at the empty wine glass in her hand. Barron’s confession replayed in her mind, over and over again. He cared about her. He admired her. He was willing to wait for her.

And for the first time in years, Kenna allowed herself to wonder: What if she didn’t have to choose? What if she could have both—the career she had fought so hard for and the love she had convinced herself she didn’t need?

But as she lay down to sleep, one thought lingered in her mind, haunting her dreams: Love was dangerous. And Barron James was becoming impossible to resist.

Shadows in the Neighborhood...

Kenna’s life at St. James Memorial Hospital continued to unfold in a whirlwind of challenges and triumphs. Each day brought new opportunities to learn, grow, and prove herself as a doctor. Yet, despite her growing confidence in the hospital, her personal life remained a tangled web of unresolved emotions and looming threats.

Barron’s confession on the balcony had left an indelible mark on Kenna’s heart. His words echoed in her mind during quiet moments—when she was alone in the locker room after a long shift, or when she walked home under the dim glow of streetlights. He cared about her. He admired her. He was willing to wait for her.

But waiting wasn’t something Kenna could afford to think about—not with so much still hanging in the balance. Her career demanded every ounce of her focus, and Barron’s presence in her life complicated things in ways she hadn’t anticipated. Still, she couldn’t deny the warmth his support brought her—a steady anchor in the stormy seas of her ambitions.

One afternoon, as Kenna stepped out of the hospital after a particularly grueling surgery, she noticed a group of men gathered near the entrance. They wore suits that seemed too expensive for the neighborhood, their polished shoes gleaming under the sun. At first, Kenna paid them no mind, assuming they were donors or executives visiting the hospital. But as she approached, one of the men turned toward her, his sharp gaze locking onto hers.

“Dr. Will?” he asked, stepping forward with a polite smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Yes,” Kenna replied cautiously, stopping a few feet away. “Can I help you?”

The man extended a hand, which Kenna hesitated before shaking. “My name is Victor James. I’m Barron’s uncle.”

Kenna froze, her stomach tightening. She had heard Barron mention his uncle once or twice—Victor James, a wealthy real estate developer known for his ruthless business tactics. Something about him set off warning bells in her mind.

“It’s nice to meet you, Mr. James,” she said politely, though her tone was guarded. “Is there something I can do for you?”

Victor chuckled softly, glancing around as if surveying the area. “Actually, it’s more about what you can do for me. You see, I’ve been working on a project—a redevelopment plan for your old neighborhood. And I understand you have ties to the community.”

Kenna’s heart sank. Her old neighborhood—the place where she had grown up, where her family still lived—was already struggling under the weight of poverty and neglect. The thought of someone like Victor swooping in to “redevelop” it filled her with dread.

“I’m not sure how I can assist with that,” she said carefully, keeping her voice neutral. “I’m just a doctor.”

“Oh, come now, Dr. Will,” Victor replied, his smile widening but losing none of its cold edge. “Surely you understand the importance of progress. Your neighborhood has potential—it just needs the right vision. And I believe my vision aligns perfectly with the future of this city.”

Kenna clenched her fists subtly, fighting the urge to snap. “Progress shouldn’t come at the expense of people’s homes—or their lives.”

Victor raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by her defiance. “Sentimental, aren’t we? But let me assure you, everyone involved will be compensated fairly. Including your family.”

“My family isn’t for sale,” Kenna shot back, her voice sharper than she intended. “And neither is our community.”

Victor’s expression hardened slightly, though his smile remained intact. “You’re young, Dr. Will. Idealistic. But trust me when I say resistance is futile. This project will happen—with or without your approval.”

Before Kenna could respond, Barron appeared beside her, his presence commanding yet calm. “Uncle Victor,” he greeted coolly, his tone devoid of warmth. “What brings you here?”

Victor turned to face his nephew, his smile turning smug. “Ah, Barron. Just having a little chat with Dr. Will about my latest venture. I assume you’ve told her all about it?”

Barron’s jaw tightened, his gaze flickering briefly to Kenna before returning to Victor. “If you’re referring to your plans for her neighborhood, then no, I haven’t discussed it with her. Nor do I intend to.”

Victor chuckled darkly, clearly enjoying the tension between them. “Still playing the hero, I see. Well, don’t worry—I’ll handle things my way. As always.”

With that, he gave Kenna a curt nod and walked away, leaving her standing beside Barron, her heart pounding.

“What was that about?” Kenna asked, her voice trembling with anger and fear.

Barron sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair. “Victor has always been… ambitious. He sees opportunities where others see obstacles. Unfortunately, his methods often leave destruction in their wake.”

“He wants to take over my neighborhood,” Kenna said bitterly, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. “He wants to destroy everything I grew up with—all for profit.”

Barron placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder, his touch grounding her. “Not if I have anything to say about it. I won’t let him hurt you—or your family.”

Kenna looked at him, startled by the fierceness in his voice. “Why would you do that? Why would you risk going against your own uncle for me?”

“Because you matter to me, Kenna,” Barron replied simply, his gaze unwavering. “And because no one should have to lose their home for someone else’s greed.”

His words sent a jolt of emotion through her, stirring feelings she had tried so hard to suppress. She wanted to thank him, to tell him how much his loyalty meant to her—but instead, she nodded silently, unable to find the right words.

Later that evening, as Kenna sat in her apartment staring at the city lights, she replayed the encounter in her mind. Victor James was a threat—one she couldn’t face alone. But Barron had stepped in without hesitation, vowing to protect her and her family. It was yet another reminder of how deeply he cared for her—and how dangerous that care might become.

As she drifted off to sleep, one thought lingered in her mind: Barron James wasn’t just her mentor or benefactor. He was becoming something far more important—a protector, a confidant, and perhaps, someday, something even greater.

But for now, she pushed those thoughts aside. Love was still a luxury she couldn’t afford—not while enemies lurked in the shadows, ready to tear apart everything she held dear.

The days following Kenna’s encounter with Victor James were tense and unsettling. His words lingered in her mind like a storm cloud, casting a shadow over everything she did. She couldn’t shake the image of her neighborhood—her childhood home, the streets where she had played as a child, the small shops that barely scraped by—all swallowed up by Victor’s greed. It wasn’t just about buildings or land; it was about people. Families who had lived there for generations, struggling but surviving together. How could he justify tearing that apart?

Kenna threw herself into her work at the hospital, trying to distract herself from the looming threat. But no matter how busy she kept herself, Victor’s cold smile haunted her thoughts. And worse still, Barron’s involvement in the situation only complicated things further.

One evening, after a long shift, Kenna found Barron waiting for her outside the hospital. He leaned against his car, his expression unreadable as she approached.

“We need to talk,” he said simply, opening the passenger door for her.

Kenna hesitated, glancing around nervously. “About what?”

“Victor,” Barron replied, his tone firm but gentle. “And your neighborhood.”

Kenna sighed deeply, climbing into the car reluctantly. As Barron slid behind the wheel and started driving, she stared out the window, watching the city blur past. She didn’t want to involve him in this—not when it meant going head-to-head with his own family. But deep down, she knew she couldn’t fight Victor alone.

“I don’t want you to get caught in the middle of this,” Kenna said finally, breaking the silence. “This is my problem, not yours.”

“It’s not just your problem anymore,” Barron countered, his voice steady. “Victor isn’t just my uncle—he’s a predator. He preys on vulnerable communities, exploiting them for profit without a second thought. I won’t let him do that to you—or your family.”

Kenna turned to look at him, startled by the intensity in his voice. “Why does it matter so much to you? Why are you willing to risk so much for someone like me?”

Barron glanced at her briefly before returning his focus to the road. “Because you’re worth fighting for, Kenna. Because I care about you more than I’ve cared about anyone else in my life. And because I promised myself I’d protect you—from anything, even if it means standing against my own blood.”

His words sent a shiver down her spine, stirring emotions she had tried so hard to bury. She wanted to believe him—to trust that his feelings were real—but fear held her back. Love was dangerous. Love meant vulnerability. And right now, vulnerability felt like a luxury she couldn’t afford.

“You shouldn’t have to choose sides because of me,” Kenna whispered, her voice trembling. “Your family… they’ll hate you for this.”

“They already hate me for plenty of other reasons,” Barron replied with a faint smirk, though there was sadness in his eyes. “But none of that matters. What matters is doing what’s right—for you, for your community, and for me.”

Kenna swallowed hard, tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. She wanted to argue, to insist that he stay out of it—but the truth was, she needed him. Without Barron, she wouldn’t stand a chance against Victor.

They arrived at a quiet café on the outskirts of the city, tucked away from prying eyes. Barron ordered coffee for both of them, then spread out a stack of documents on the table between them.

“These are Victor’s plans,” he explained, pointing to blueprints and legal papers. “He’s been buying up properties in your neighborhood for months, pressuring homeowners to sell. If we can prove coercion or illegal practices, we might be able to stop him.”

Kenna studied the documents, her heart sinking as she realized the extent of Victor’s reach. “How did you get these?” she asked, looking up at him.

“I have connections,” Barron replied vaguely, his jaw tightening slightly. “People who owe me favors. They helped dig up dirt on Victor.”

Kenna shook her head, overwhelmed by the complexity of it all. “This feels… impossible. How can we fight someone like him?”

“We fight smart,” Barron said firmly, leaning forward. “We gather evidence, rally the community, and make noise. Victor thrives on secrecy and intimidation. If we shine a light on his actions, he’ll back off.”

Kenna nodded slowly, though doubt still gnawed at her. “What about my family? My neighbors? They’ll be scared—they won’t want to speak out.”

“That’s why we start small,” Barron replied, his tone reassuring. “We find allies within the community, people who are willing to stand up. Together, we build a case strong enough to shut Victor down.”

For a moment, Kenna allowed herself to imagine it—a united front, standing against Victor’s greed. It was daunting, yes, but also empowering. For the first time since meeting Victor, she felt a flicker of hope.

“But what happens if we fail?” she asked quietly, voicing the fear that had been eating away at her.

“We won’t fail,” Barron said, his voice unwavering. “Not while I’m here.”

His confidence bolstered her resolve, and she nodded again, determination replacing her earlier hesitation. “Alright. Let’s do this.”

Over the next few weeks, Kenna and Barron worked tirelessly to expose Victor’s plans. They met with community leaders, collected testimonies from residents, and filed complaints with local authorities. Barron used his influence to draw media attention to the issue, ensuring Victor’s actions were scrutinized publicly.

It wasn’t easy. There were moments of doubt, setbacks, and threats from Victor’s associates. But through it all, Barron remained steadfast, his loyalty unwavering. And Kenna began to see him in a new light—not just as her mentor or protector, but as someone who truly believed in her, who stood by her no matter the cost.

One night, after a particularly grueling day of meetings, Kenna and Barron sat together in her apartment, exhausted but hopeful. The battle was far from over, but progress was being made. As Kenna sipped her tea, she glanced at Barron, her heart swelling with gratitude—and something deeper.

“Thank you,” she said softly, her voice thick with emotion. “For everything. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Barron smiled faintly, reaching across the table to take her hand. “You’ll never have to find out. I’m not going anywhere, Kenna.”

His touch sent a jolt of warmth through her, stirring feelings she had tried so hard to suppress. For the first time, she allowed herself to imagine a future where Barron wasn’t just her ally—but something more.

But as she looked into his eyes, one thought lingered in her mind: Love was dangerous. And yet, with Barron, it felt worth the risk.

Are you Team Kenna or Team Barron? Or maybe Team Victor?! Spill your thoughts below! if you could pick a character to be friends with, who would it be and why?

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