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.)

45. Oxygen

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"He was sunshine."

~Colbie Caillat~

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45. Oxygen

'Breathe,' says Tasunka, applying a firm smack between Shang's shoulders.

The cardiothoracic surgeon has lost the use of his lungs as he watches his date charm donations out of dotcom moguls and organic farmers. One dance with a tech company founder and Mulan had earned West River three new parent rooms for NICU. (So far, she was winning the in-house pool on donations.) Tasunka was a little concerned about the way the donor was looking at Mulan, so he'd tried to keep Shang's spirits up. For the last few months, the orthopaedic surgeon had eyes for one man only, and it didn't look like that was going to change anytime soon. Not when Shang started blowing off game night to woo his lover.

'And to think,' says Tasunka, 'six months ago you thought Mulan Hua was a sentient goober.'

'I never used those words,' defends Shang. 'And I certainly don't think that now.'

'Clearly.'

Tasunka smirks into his drink as Shang's eyes remain locked on Mulan. The cardiothoracic surgeon had fallen so quickly and so completely for Mulan Hua that it was a little amusing given Shang's propensity for research and planning. The blind admiration, however, grew a little tiring as the night dragged on. There was no argument that Mulan looked stunning in her red dress, and the woman certainly knew how to work a room (she was still leading the pool two hours in), but she wasn't that incredible.

'For god's sake,' snaps Tasunka, 'ask her to dance before some avocado farmer decides she's good breeding stock and seduces her.'

Shang doesn't need to be told twice. He downs his wine then mingles his way to Mulan, wrapping his arms around her as she's talking to one of the potential donors. He waits for the conversation to end before spinning her in his arms.

'Wanna dance?'