Chapter 24

The operating room lights dimmed as city lights began glowing outside the windows. Vivian Laurent rubbed her stiff neck, exhausted after three consecutive complex surgeries.

"You were brilliant today." Nathan Clementson removed his mask with admiration in his eyes. "That vascular suturing technique even put me to shame."

Vivian shook her head with a smile. "You flatter me, Nathan. I merely offered a suggestion."

A tall young doctor approached from the corridor. His well-defined muscles were visible beneath the lab coat, and intelligent eyes sparkled behind gold-rimmed glasses.

"Professor, I've compiled the research materials you requested." Ryan Fairsprene handed Nathan a folder, his gaze lingering on Vivian.

Nathan smiled. "This is Dr. Laurent, my junior colleague. Ryan, didn't you want to consult someone about nerve anastomosis techniques?"

Ryan's ears turned pink. "Dr. Laurent, could I trouble you for a few minutes?"

Vivian was about to decline when she noticed the earnest curiosity in his eyes. She sighed. "Walk with me then."

The pair headed toward the elevators, oblivious to the icy stares from behind the nurses' station.

"See that? Dr. Fairsprene barely acknowledges anyone, yet he's following that new doctor around like a puppy," one nurse whispered, nudging her colleague.

Chloe Ashcroft gripped her clipboard until her nails left deep indentations. Watching Vivian's slender figure, she hissed through clenched teeth, "Just another pretty face who got in through connections."

The underground parking garage was dimly lit. As Vivian fastened her seatbelt, blinding headlights suddenly flashed in her rearview mirror.

A black Maybach lurked like a predator, maintaining an exact distance behind her. Vivian frowned and deliberately slowed down—the pursuing vehicle matched her speed.

"How interesting." Ethan Roscente rested one hand on the steering wheel, fingers tapping rhythmically. He pulled alongside and lowered his window.

Vivian kept her eyes forward but suddenly accelerated at the turn. Screeching tires echoed as her red sports car shot forward like an arrow.

"Got you." Ethan's lips curved as he slammed the accelerator. The two vehicles raced through empty streets, their roaring engines piercing the night.

Meanwhile, in the hospital's top-floor office, Chloe sobbed into the phone. "Uncle, that Vivian Laurent is insufferable! Today she openly flirted with Dr. Fairsprene—"

A chilling laugh came through the receiver. "Don't worry, niece. I'll make sure she learns who really runs this hospital."