Ask her out

The following day, Roman called for her, and she was now making her way downstairs to the dining hall. Upon arrival, she found Roman and Michelle already seated, with Roman feeding Michelle.

"You are here. Take your seat over there," Roman said as soon as he saw her.

"I will eat at the hospital. I can't afford to be late. Why did you call me?" She replied, declining to join them.

"Hi, Pat," Michelle greeted with a smile, turning toward her. The sound of the nickname felt awkward, forced, even and Patricia offered a polite smile in return, keeping her thoughts to herself.

Without a word, Roman picked up an iPad and held it out to her. She stepped forward to take it from him.

"These are your schedules for the next month," he said. "Look through them. Let me know which ones work for you and which don't. If your hospital shifts are a conflict, I will have that sorted out. Otherwise, you are free to reject any event you are uncomfortable with."