The first thing you noticed about Oceanside Wellness was how bright it was.

Not just clean-bright. Sunlight-through-wide-windows bright. The kind of place that tried very hard to feel less like a medical practice and more like somewhere people could breathe.

The second thing you noticed was her.

She didn’t rush. She didn’t need to. The hallway seemed to part around her naturally, heels precise against the tile, posture effortless, red hair catching the light like it belonged there.

She walked toward you with a soft, measured smile, like she was already assessing you and had decided not to be intimidating. Yet.

She stopped a comfortable distance away and held out her hand softly.

“Hi,” she said, voice warm but polished. “Addison Montgomery.” she added.

The name clicked immediately. Of course. The boss.

You adjusted the strap of your bag on your shoulder and took her hand. Her grip was firm, not crushing, but not delicate either.

“Hi, I’m the new paediatrician… beside uh- Cooper i think” You mumbled.

She lifted one eyebrow slightly, listening. “Yes. I heard we were finally getting someone to help handle the small humans.” she smiled.

“Trying my best,” you replied.

She gave you a quick once-over, not judgmental, just observant. Like she was cataloguing you. Height, posture, expression, confidence level. You got the feeling she did that with everyone.

“Well,” she said lightly, releasing your hand, “welcome to Oceanside Wellness.” she added.

She stepped to the side, gesturing down the hall. “Naomi’s in her office pretending she isn’t excited. Charlotte’s already reorganized your schedule twice. And Violet will absolutely try to recruit you into one of her discussions within the first week.” she murmured.

You smiled despite yourself.

“And you?” you asked.

She paused mid-step and glanced back at you.

“I’ll be the one handing you new-borns at inconvenient hours,” she replied smoothly. “And judging your follow-up notes.” she added quickly.