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.)

38. Scandalize

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"It must have been some kind of kiss."

~Cutting Crew~

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38. Scandalize

She's so close, Shang thinks. And Mulan's looking at him with those big eyes and her dimples are shivering in her smile. Her fingers are tucking invisible strands of hair behind his ear, dancing along his neck, toying with the real strands of hair that have escaped his topknot.

'I'd love you better,' he swears.

'I know.' Her thumb glides along his cheek to the corner of his mouth.

Then she's leaning forward, and Shang's closing his eyes. His heart's thumping in his chest. Her lips touch his, gently, like she's unsure if they should be doing this.

Shang makes the decision for her, and pulls her closer.