The Tiger Inside

by Nasu Hasami

Orthopaedic surgeon Mulan Hua is dedicated to her career and determined to rise above the statistics of her profession. But that shouldn't mean she has to compromise on the things she wants. Surely, in the 21st Century, a girl can have everything. (Flash fiction series. Companion story to The Nightingale's Song.)

8. Liar

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"What's the point of playing a game you're gonna lose?"

~Marina and the Diamonds~

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8. Liar

Shang's leaving West River when he sees Mulan in her truck, collapsed against the steering wheel.

He knocks on the window. There's no response.

He opens the door, and the surgeon falls into his arms before startling awake.

Mulan's not going to admit she's been crying. Shang's not going to mention the mascara smudged all over her face.

'Should you be driving?' he asks.

She shrugs. 'I've made worse decisions.'

Shang reaches for the keys. Mulan makes no move to stop him, but she sighs as though the world is ending. Shang keeps his affirmations to himself. For all he knows, the world is ending. Then she looks at him with big eyes that rob his lungs of breath and send a wave of endorphins straight through his brain.

'Am I shitty girlfriend?' she asks.