As the meeting progressed, Allison and Dorothy exchanged glances filled with disdain towards Chuck, although it was evident that Dr. Dorothy held a deep admiration for him.
Meanwhile, the other female doctors, unfamiliar with Chuck's background, observed him with admiration, with some expressing a desire to sit beside him. One of them even mentioned to her colleagues that she intended to request Chuck's contact information once the meeting concluded.
Conversely, the male doctors could not help but compliment Sandra's beauty. "How fortunate is that gentleman seated next to Miss Hennessy?" one remarked. "Money certainly talks; he appears to hail from a wealthy family, giving him a 100% chance of being with Miss Hennessy."
Subsequently, the moderator invited the vice president to the podium, prompting all attendees except Chuck and Mr. Miller to rise in applause. After encouraging everyone to settle down, the vice president commenced his address. He explained the purpose of their gathering and congratulated the attendees on their hard work. He then called upon Dr. James, the current director of clinical services, to come forward. Once Dr. James took his place alongside Mr. Smith at the podium, he began his remarks.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, thank you for joining me today. As you all know, today marks my last day at Westminster Hospital. I want to express my sincere gratitude for your dedication and professionalism under my leadership. I trust you will continue to uphold this spirit for my successor. I wish you all the best, and congratulations to the doctor who will take over my responsibilities."
Dr. James then directed his appreciation towards the executives present. "I must extend my heartfelt thanks to my superiors, who have been exemplary leaders and have provided unwavering support during my tenure as director of clinical services. Without their backing, I fear I would not have been able to fulfill my duties to both my fellow doctors and our patients."
He continued, addressing the vice president, "Thank you very much, sir. Please convey my appreciation to the president, who remains largely unknown to most of us. Without his vision, many of us might find ourselves unemployed. He is the founder and backbone of Westminster Hospital. Please extend my gratitude to him, and I hope for the opportunity to personally thank him one day."
With that, Dr. James concluded his address and passed the microphone back to the vice president, who presented him with an award, noting, "With your exemplary service, you may soon have the opportunity to meet the president." Dr. James graciously accepted the award, thanked the vice president, and returned to his seat. "Dr. James has been one of our finest doctors, and as you retire, Westminster Hospital will greatly miss you," Mr. Smith stated.
With that, I would like to take a moment to welcome the individual who will announce our next Director of Clinical Services. Today, we will see two doctors receive promotions, and I extend my best wishes to all of you, along with heartfelt congratulations to those being promoted," stated Mr. Smith. He then invited the audience to rise and applaud for the individual who would introduce the new director.
All attendees, including Sandra and Mr. Miller, stood and began to clap their hands. The doctors focused their attention on the executive section, eager to see who would announce their new leader.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming the person who will invite our new director, Miss Sandra Hennessy." Sandra was taken aback, as she had not anticipated being the one to introduce Chuck at the podium. She rose, approached the podium, bowed respectfully to the Vice President, and accepted the microphone he handed to her before returning to his seat.
"Let us all remain standing as we welcome one of the hardest working individuals and one of the most distinguished gentlemen I know. Please give a warm welcome to Mr. Wallen." As applause filled the room, Allison, visibly surprised, turned to Dr. Dorothy, who shared her astonishment. "What is happening? Why is Chuck introducing the new Director of Clinical Services? Sandra even referred to him as one of the most handsome and hardworking individuals—could this be a joke? Something feels amiss here," she said, feeling overwhelmed. Just as she was about to leave, Sandra intervened. "Please, let's focus on this moment and stay in the room." Reluctantly, Allison returned to her seat.
Chuck took the microphone and expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Sandra Hennessy. My dedication cannot be compared to yours; you are truly an asset to this hospital. In the short time I have known you, you have proven to be among the most hardworking and remarkable individuals I have ever encountered. You have taught me so much, and my own diligence is a reflection of your influence."
He then instructed everyone to take their seats, and once everyone was settled, he began to address the group. "Thank you all for attending this meeting today. I am a man of few words, so I will not take up much of your time. Although I have never had the pleasure of meeting Dr. James, based on your sentiments, it is clear that he is an exceptional individual. As he approaches retirement, I would like to express our gratitude for his dedication to both the hospital and its patients.
Thank you, Dr. James, for your unwavering commitment to caring for the patients and their families at this hospital. Your positive impact on the world is significant, and we are grateful for the legacy you leave behind. While we are saddened to see you go, we wish you all the best in the next chapter of your life, hoping you enjoy a well-deserved luxury.
Thank you for all you have done; you will certainly be missed here at the hospital. Your tireless hard work and integrity have inspired us all. Here's to celebrating a remarkable doctor and your future endeavors.
After Chuck concluded his acknowledgment of Dr. James, there was a moment of silence before he called out Dr. Allison's name and requested her to stand up.
Allison was stunned upon hearing Chuck call her name. She felt a wave of anxiety, fearing that he would publicly humiliate her.
Then she heard Chuck say, "Thank you, Dr. Allison, for your devotion and hard work in this hospital." Upon hearing those words, she momentarily panicked, thinking she might be dismissed. Who was Chuck to fire her? Had he gained such power? She was lost in thought.
Chuck continued with his speech. "The executive members have decided to relieve you of your position as the head of the medical team in the outpatient department." Allison froze, processing what she had just heard. Was she really being fired? Why had she treated him poorly? This couldn't be happening in front of everyone. She had so many questions swirling in her mind.
"And as of today," Chuck continued, "I am honored to announce your new position as the Director of Clinical Services at Westminster Hospital." Had she heard him correctly? Was Chuck actually promoting her? Allison could hardly believe the news.
"Please come to the podium," Chuck requested. Allison, feeling a mix of confusion and anticipation, rose from her seat and approached the podium. Just as she arrived, Chuck called out another name. "I would also like to invite Dr. Dorothy to step forward. Your contributions have truly made a difference. As Dr. Allison is being promoted to the Director of Clinical Services, you will be appointed as the head of the medical team in the outpatient department. Please join us at the podium."
Chuck extended his hand to congratulate both individuals before passing the microphone to Mr. Smith and returning to his seat. Mr. Smith then offered his congratulations to the newly promoted directors and presented Dr. Allison with the keys to her new office as Director of Clinical Services, followed by a similar gesture for Dr. Dorothy. Both were afforded the opportunity to speak before the meeting concluded.