Chapter 5

Finishing his brandy, the doctor bowed his head, as if debating how to answer."I don't wish to grill my people," he revealed after a moment's pause.He glanced up and focused on Liberty. "Nor do I wish to believe that someone close to me would be so duplicitous.But I don't know what else to do."

"Take a moment to think about this seriously, Daniel:do you honestly feel that one or more of your employees and/or your volunteers could possibly be the one or ones doing this?"

He sighed deeply."Of course it's possible, but as I said, I just can't believe someone I know would do such a thing.But who else could it be?"

"What about that pro-life group demonstrating at the shelter dedication this afternoon?Has anyone from that organization contacted you personally or become aggressive of late?"

"So far, they perform their usual protests, and distribute flyers, of course, although not at our doorstep.Once in awhile they place ads in the papers, but no one so far as crossed the line and actually threatened myself or my staff, or tried to vandalize our property."

"What about that woman heckler this afternoon?Have you seen her before?"

The doctor shook his head again."No, she doesn't look familiar, but then again, I haven't had direct contact with anyone from the pro-life movement."

"Okay then, let me tell you what I think."With her own sigh, Liberty sat back in her seat and absently rubbed the chair arms with her palms."First of all, they stole your files, a felony charge, and second, they can't do anything with them publicity-wise because any decent newspaper or TV station would never publicize private and very personal information like women's medical histories no matter how prominent the women patients.

"Plus, you're protected under doctor-patient confidentiality.The only way someone could use the information is if you and your patient grant permission.Without it, anyone who publishes such private information, even on Facebook or anywhere on the Internet, can be prosecuted for libel and violating privacy laws."

Daniel nodded."I feel a bit better about that.Yet, if this information begins to circulate informally, I'm afraid my reputation will suffer, if it hasn't already.I feel as if I'm loosing credibility amongst those who contribute substantial amounts to the foundation."

Liberty frowned."Why is that?"

"It involves some information I've heard through the social grapevine.No matter how careful we are, there's always bound to be a leak.I know of a few people who initially questioned how we handled Amber Thewes, and they've managed to keep such speculations in circulation."

"Okay, then."Tenting her fingers, Liberty thought for a moment."Now what about Ms. Kime, the lady I met today?You say she's your publicity manager."

"Yes, Maddy does all of our publicity pro bono.She operates her own public relations firm, Kime Communications, and so we are very grateful for her services.Plus, she's been instrumental in raising funds for the foundation.She works with the fund-raising committee to plan events and activities such as last year's dinner gala and silent auction, a tremendous success."As he spoke, the doctor brightened with the positive aspects of his work."Do you think I should involve Maddy in this?"

"It wouldn't hurt to keep her informed.And if necessary, she can counteract any negative publicity with a positive campaign.In the meantime..."

Liberty sat forward."If you receive any more texts or phone calls and you can identify your contact person, tell him or her to contact me, your attorney.Sometimes just the threat of legal action stops this kind of behavior cold.And keep me informed, too, Daniel.I want to help any way I can."

When she stood to leave, the doctor stood as well, his smile now wide and hopeful."You are a god-send, Libby."Reaching out, he clasped her hands in his."Thank you so much for your time and energies.I know how busy you are."

"I'm never too busy to help a friend.I also want to mention that you might want to beef up security around the clinic and shelter, just until we get a handle on the situation."

He patted the top of her right hand, his skin cool and dry."I'll call the security company tonight and ask for more round-the-clock protection."

"Good.Now if you'll excuse me, Daniel, I've had a long day and a nice, hot soak in the tub beckons."

The doctor laughed as he disengaged her hands."You go relax now, Libby.You deserve it, and I'll talk to you soon."

"Tomorrow," she advised."Let's talk some more, after I do a bit of research on my end.My case load is actually rather light at the moment, so I can devote some quality time to your problem.Still, I wish you would call the police."

"Let me have at least one more day, and then I'll call the police.Libby, I do thank you from the bottom of my heart."As the doctor escorted her out of the study, he added, "Now please be careful driving, and we'll talk again tomorrow."

At the foyer Liberty turned and gave her friend a pat on the shoulder."Get some rest, Daniel, and don't worry.We'll take care of this one way or another."

With a smile of relief, he opened the front door for her."I have the utmost confidence in you, my dear.Good night and God bless."