“I’m going to clear you to go back to work next Monday, provided you get some rest between now and then.”
That was five days away. Wasn’t great, but she guessed it was better than nothing.
“Okay.”
“I’m also writing you a prescription for some iron tablets. Wait for the test results, but if they show that you’re iron deficient as I suspect; you’ll be able to start taking the pills straight away.”
Tara nodded.
“Take what I said about a vacation seriously, Ms. Phelps. You are on your way to burning out.”
“Sure, thanks, Doctor,” Tara said with a smile. She could imagine Tim’s reaction if she asked for time off for a vacation. He’d nearly had a fit when she’d asked for a few hours of personal time, demanding to know what she was doing and if this was going to become a habit. She hated when he spoke to her in that cold voice. Usually she caved and gave him what he wanted, but this time she’d stood her ground.
Surprisingly, he’d given in and had grudgingly given her the time off.
Still, she was pretty sure she’d find herself unemployed if she went back and told him she needed a break. In fairness, he had warned her when she took this job that he would be hard to work for and he had ensured she didn’t have a family or anything else to consume her time. She’d been so desperate for the job that she’d agreed to everything.
But she hadn’t realized the toll this job would take on her.
With a tired sigh, prescription and medical certificate in hand, she left the doctor’s office. At least she could go back to the club next week. Her heart sped up at the thought of seeing Alex. Damn, she was a sucker for punishment.
***
Tara looked around for Reagan, finally spying her at the back of the cafe. She waved at the other woman before weaving her way through the tables.
“What are you doing back here?” she asked. Most people liked to sit at the tables in the front of the café where there was a view.
“Hiding,” Reagan said.
Tara waited for her to say more. When she didn’t, she shrugged and sat down.
“I got us both some coffee.” Reagan pointed to the cup in front of her.
“Thanks,” Tara replied.
“When are you coming back to the club?” Reagan asked.
“My first shift is this Thursday night.” She’d spoken to Dylan who had questioned her extensively. “Although Dylan was really reluctant to give the shift to me.”
“Why?” Reagan asked.
“He thinks I’m not up to it.”
“Are you? You still don’t look that great.”
If she was going to hang out with Reagan more then she obviously needed to grow a thicker skin.
“I need it,” she replied simply.
Reagan nodded. “I understand.”
“But I’m worried that I’ll get there and he’ll turn me away.”
“So make sure he has no reason to turn you away.”
“How? A ton of make-up?” Tara joked.
“Leave it to me,” Reagan said mysteriously. “What time is your shift?”