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.)

18. Shelter

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"Please teach me gently how to breathe."

~Birdy~

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18. Shelter

'Ma?' The word sits on Mulan's lips like she's seen a ghost.

Lee Yuan is sitting on the portico of her daughter's house. She loses her composure when she sees the bruising on her daughter's nose.

'Your brother told me.' Lee fusses over Mulan. 'Staff Sergeant Yu's lucky your father isn't still alive. He'd be losing a lot more than his wings.'

Mulan is silent. It's too strange to see her mother after so long.

'Xiong said he's done your floors. Can I see them?'

'Sure,' Mulan nods, unlocking the door and kicking off her shoes. 'You can help me decide on some curtains.'