"Do you want something, Dr. Rose? Do you even know what time it is?" Ross asked, glancing at the unknown number on his phone.
"It's Christmas Eve. I know. But I need you—I need you now," Dr. Rose said, her voice tinged with panic.
"For what? I don't think we're close enough for you to be asking favors, Dr. Rose. I'm hanging up, so say your piece quickly," Ross replied coldly.
"Wait! I'll owe you a big favor. Just help me this once!" Dr. Rose's panic was palpable now.
"A big favor? Unless it involves you sleeping with me, I'm out," Ross said, his tone dripping with indifference. He waited for three breaths, then hung up.
Ring. Ring. Ring.
Five breaths later, just as Ross had expected, the phone rang again.
Ross picked up the call again but didn't utter a single word. He leaned back in his chair, letting the silence stretch as he waited for Dr. Rose to speak first. It didn't take long.
