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.)

24. Hero

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"Where's the streetwise Hercules to fight the rising odds?"

~Bonnie Tyler~

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24. Hero

'Do you need a lift?' asks Mulan.

She's hanging out of her Cadillac in her leather jacket. If Shang says 'yes', it'll be the first time they've willingly put themselves in each other's proximity in a confined space.

'Yeah.' Shang grabs his satchel from the passenger seat and locks his very dead Tesla.

'So, where to?' There's a smile on Mulan's face as she's looking at him.

'Brentwood,' says Shang. 'I'm staying with my parents.'

The silence that follows his declaration is revealing. Shang wonders if he could have said anything more awkward than announcing he was a grown man who was living with his parents, temporary as it may have been.

'That's a long way for a few hours' sleep.' Mulan glances to him for a moment before pulling out. 'Why don't you just stay with me, yeah? I have a guest room. The bed's new.'