Twelfth-floor examination room, Whitmore Medical Center. Afternoon. Light rain pattered outside the window.

There was a gentle knock on the examination room door.

“Come in,” a low, calm voice sounded.

A nurse opened the door. “Dr. Whitmore, sorry to interrupt. Dr. Levin has a family emergency. The patient is in Room C—a pelvic exam scheduled for today. He agrees to have you fill in.”

Alexander paused, closing the file in his hand. “Has the patient been briefed?”

“Yes. We also asked about the doctor’s preference. The patient said she has no objections.”

Alexander nodded. “Okay. I’ll take over.”

He entered the examination room, but Alexander didn’t immediately approach the patient. He kept his distance—giving her space.

“Good afternoon,” he said softly. “I’m Dr. Alexander Whitmore. I’m filling in for Dr. Levin today. I understand this wasn’t the original plan.”

“Before we begin, I want to check: are you comfortable with me performing the exam? If not, we can reschedule.”