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.)

64. Flurry

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"Fairy tales don't always have a happy ending."

~Fergie~

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64. Flurry

Three things happen so quickly Mulan isn't sure which comes first. Shang sees her. Shan sees her. Harvey Yao drops into a bull run and charges Shan. Shan cocks the gun, leveling the pistol at Harvey. Shang throws his weight into Shan before the shot fires, but it isn't quick enough. Shang's on the floor with blood spewing from his shoulder. Harvey's tackled Shan, but he hasn't dropped the gun. Shan struggles with Harvey briefly, then tosses him aside. He's bigger and faster and heavier.

Mulan leaps, without thinking, and slams her body into Shan. It's awkward and the gun is pinned against her stomach.

She feels the bullets tear through her before she hears the shots.