Taking out a pen, she circled a few items on the paper. "To be safe, I suggest you focus your investigation on these specific medications. That's all I can say."
As Ethan took the paper back, his fingertips accidentally brushed against the back of her hand. Her skin was warm to the touch.
He froze for a second.
In that brief moment, Leilani had already packed up her acupuncture kit and was ready to leave.
Suddenly, Ethan stepped forward, blocking her path. "Leilani, wait a moment."
Leilani looked up, a bit puzzled. "Is there something else?"
Ethan rubbed his nose somewhat sheepishly. "Later on, there might be some detailed aspects of this case that we'll need your help analyzing."
He paused, his tone softening. "Once I finish handing over my duties, could I treat you to a casual dinner? We can talk while we eat."
Leilani hesitated. She checked the time. Considering that Ethan was an old friend she hadn't seen in years, and that this assignment was requested by Mr. Dillon, it felt unreasonable to refuse.
"Alright. But let's not make it too late. I have other plans tonight."
A hint of a smile flashed in Ethan's eyes. "Don't worry, I won't hold you up for too long."
He stepped aside to make way for her. "Go take a seat in the waiting area outside for now. I'll be done very soon."
Leilani hummed in agreement and turned toward the waiting area.
Sitting in the waiting area by the hospital entrance, Leilani pulled out her phone and sent a message to Callahan, letting him know that something came up unexpectedly and she might be home late.
If it hadn't been for Mr. Dillon's sudden request today, Leilani would have been on a dinner date with Callahan.
He replied instantly: [Do you need me to come pick you up?]
Leilani shook her head. She had only been waiting for about half an hour, which wasn't too long.
Stopping in front of her, Ethan smiled. "Let's go. There's a pretty good diner near the hospital."
Leilani stood up and followed him out.
Walking side by side, the two passed through the hospital corridors and arrived at a small diner nearby.
The diner wasn't very large, but it was spotless and welcoming.
Ethan was clearly a regular. As soon as they walked in, the owner recognized him and led them to a quiet booth by the window.
Once they were seated, Ethan poured Leilani a glass of warm water, striking up a conversation. "Thank you again for just now. If it weren't for you, that suspect would have been in real danger."
Taking the glass, Leilani shook her head. "I was just doing a favor for a colleague. Once I accepted the assignment, treating the patient became my responsibility. You don't need to be so polite."

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