The Doctors Assistant | Carlisle Cullen x OC

Chapter 2 | A New Journey Begins

Carlisle nodded, seemingly satisfied with her response. "Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Ashley," he said, gesturing for her to follow him.

With a nod of agreement, Ashley fell into step behind Carlisle as he led her towards his office. As they walked, she couldn't shake the feeling of curiosity that lingered within her. Why would a vampire choose to work in a hospital? It was a question that would no doubt plague her thoughts in the days to come, but for now, she pushed it aside, focusing instead on the opportunity that lay before her.

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The atmosphere in Carlisle's office was one of professionalism mixed with a hint of warmth as Ashley sat opposite him at his desk. With a friendly smile, Carlisle leaned forward, his curiosity evident as he posed the question that would shape the course of Ashley's future.

"Why do you want this job, Ashley?" Carlisle inquired, his tone gentle yet probing.

Ashley couldn't help but grin at the opportunity to lighten the mood with a touch of humor. "Well, I suppose I need to make money to pay for my food and rent," she quipped, a playful glint in her eye.

Carlisle chuckled at her response, his laughter echoing in the quiet room. Yet, as the amusement faded, Ashley's expression turned serious, her gaze meeting his as she prepared to share her true motivations.

"In all seriousness, Doctor Cullen, I've always been deeply passionate about helping others," Ashley began, her voice earnest. "Back in Phoenix, I had a similar job, and I found so much fulfillment in it. I want to continue doing what I love—making a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most."

Carlisle listened intently as Ashley spoke, his eyes fixed on her with a sense of respect and admiration. But Ashley wasn't finished yet. With a sense of urgency, she voiced her concerns about the shortage of doctors and the potential consequences it could have on the community.

For a few moments, silence hung in the air as Carlisle absorbed Ashley's words, his expression thoughtful. Then, without preamble, he spoke, his voice filled with conviction.

"You're hired, Ashley," Carlisle declared, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Ashley's heart leaped at his words, disbelief washing over her. "Are you serious?" she asked, her voice tinged with astonishment.

Carlisle nodded, his expression unwavering. "Absolutely. You have a genuine passion for helping others, and that's exactly what we need here," he assured her.

A surge of gratitude washed over Ashley as she processed the news, her excitement bubbling to the surface. But amidst the joy, a hint of disgust lingered in her mind—the memory of the women in the waiting room, their shameless attempts to get close to Carlisle.

"It's truly disgusting," Ashley remarked, her voice laced with disdain as she recalled their behavior.

Carlisle's expression softened, his agreement evident. "I saw them too," he admitted, a hint of disappointment in his tone. "You're right, Ashley. Their actions were appalling."

Eager to move past the unpleasant encounter, Ashley focused on the future that lay ahead. "When can I start?" she asked, her excitement palpable.

Carlisle considered her question for a moment before responding. "How about tomorrow? Would that work for you?"

Ashley nodded eagerly, a smile spreading across her face. "Yes, that's perfect. Although I'll need to leave a little early to take my younger sister, Bella, to and from school."

Carlisle nodded in understanding, his approval evident. "That's not a problem at all. We'll see you tomorrow, Ashley."

With a sense of anticipation coursing through her veins, Ashley rose from her seat, extending her hand for Carlisle to shake. As their hands met in a firm grasp, she felt a surge of excitement—a new chapter in her life was about to begin. With a final nod of farewell, Ashley left Carlisle's office that day with a sense of purpose and determination, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that awaited her in her new role.

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As Ashley stepped out of Carlisle Cullen's office, a wave of unease washed over her as she felt the weight of the stares from the women in the waiting room. Their eyes bore into her with a mixture of disgust and jealousy, their envious glances a stark reminder of the unwelcome attention she had garnered.

Ignoring the judgmental gazes, Ashley made her way to the front desk, where the receptionist, Barbara, awaited her with a warm smile.

"Did you get the job?" Barbara asked eagerly, her eyes bright with curiosity.

Ashley nodded, a sense of pride swelling within her as she confirmed the news. "Yes, I did. I start tomorrow," she replied, unable to hide the excitement in her voice.

Barbara's smile widened into a grin of congratulations. "That's fantastic, Ashley! I'm so happy for you," she exclaimed, her enthusiasm contagious.

Introducing herself as Barbara, she extended a friendly hand towards Ashley. "But please, call me Barb," she added with a chuckle.

Returning the handshake, Ashley couldn't help but feel grateful for Barbara's warm welcome. "Thank you, Barb. I'm really looking forward to starting," she replied earnestly.

Barbara's eyes twinkled with curiosity as she leaned in closer, her voice lowered to a conspiratorial whisper. "You must be very special, Ashley. You're the first person to be hired on the spot for that position," she remarked, her admiration evident.

Ashley couldn't help but laugh at Barbara's remark, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I wouldn't say I'm special, Barb. I just really wanted the job—not the doctor," she joked, her tone light-hearted.

Barbara chuckled at Ashley's quip, her laughter echoing in the quiet room. "Well, whatever the reason, we're lucky to have you," she replied warmly.

Their conversation was interrupted by a sudden realization, and Barbara's expression shifted to one of concern. "I'll have to send all those other women home," she muttered, a hint of annoyance in her tone.

Ashley nodded in understanding, her heart sinking at the thought of the disappointment those women would face. "I'm sorry, Barb. I didn't mean to cause any trouble," she apologized, feeling a pang of guilt.

Barbara waved off her concerns with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about it, Ashley. It's not your fault," she reassured her. "Congratulations again, and I'll see you tomorrow."

With a final goodbye, Ashley left the hospital, her mind buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the new chapter that lay ahead. As she stepped out into the sunlight, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected connections she had made that day—and the promising future that awaited her.