Chapter 711

The operating room lights finally dimmed.

Theo was wheeled into the ICU. Though the surgery was successful, the next 24 hours would be critical.

Vivian removed her mask, revealing deep indentations on her cheeks. She leaned against the wall, her bangs damp with sweat.

Ethan rushed to her side and pulled her into a tight embrace.

"Vivian, thank you."

His voice trembled.

During the procedure, Theo had coded multiple times. When the kidney transport was delayed, the child nearly didn't make it.

It was Vivian's quick decision to modify the surgical plan that snatched him back from death's door.

"I'm a doctor," she said softly, pushing him away. "Saving lives is my duty."

She didn't want Ethan to misunderstand her intentions.

His Adam's apple bobbed. "I know. But this debt—I'll remember it for life."

"Don't celebrate yet." Vivian massaged her temples. "The risk of post-op infection is high."

"I believe in Theo." Ethan glanced toward the ICU. "Can I see him?"

"Wait for visiting hours." She checked her watch. "Go rest in the lounge."

Ethan noticed the bloodshot veins in her eyes. "You should get some sleep."

"Queen Eleanor still needs her follow-up." Vivian turned to leave.

Ethan grabbed her wrist. "Let another doctor handle it."

"You didn't sleep last night either," she countered.

They stood at an impasse.

"Did the test results come back?" Vivian changed the subject.

Ethan shook his head. "Even expedited, we won't know until tomorrow."

"What about Sophia?"

"Locked up at the estate." His gaze turned icy. "We'll deal with her after Theo stabilizes."

Vivian suddenly covered her mouth and bolted for the restroom.

She dry-heaved over the sink, her stomach churning violently but producing nothing.

Ethan followed, handing her a tissue. "Are you—"

"Just exhausted." She cut him off.

In the mirror, her face was ghostly pale.