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.)

29. Daylight

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"Tripping in the world could be dangerous."

~Imagine Dragons~

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29. Daylight

'I've got it,' says Mulan. When she starts compressions, it's the exact same tempo that Shang set. She's plunging her weight from her shoulders to match the pressure he can apply naturally. Harvey's running over with the crash cart. Su's got the epinephrine. It all becomes very mechanical.

'Stable.' It's Mulan. Her eyes are glued to the vitals. 'Take her to theater now. I'll tell the family.'

Seven hours and fifteen minutes in surgery. They lose her twice more. When Shang's heading out to speak to her parents, he thinks this woman may have nine lives.

It's just after midnight when he slips into his consultation room to crash on his couch. A tired smile pulls on his lips when he sees a bottle of vitamin water, a falafel sub, and a Snickers bar sitting on his desk.