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.)

65. Unmatched

The Tiger Inside

By Nasu Hasami

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"The sharp knife of a short life."

~The Band Perry~

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65. Unmatched

Mulan doesn't hear the next shot. Shang isn't quick enough to pull the gun away from Shan Yu's head. Harvey isn't close enough to do anything.

Gracie Ting, the new chair of Emergency, runs over to them as soon as the shooter is slumped on the floor. She checks his pulse before moving to assess Mulan. Then she check's Shang. How he's still conscious is a mystery.

'It's hit the brachial artery,' says Gracie. 'We need to get all three of you into surgery. I'm not waiting for the police.'

Harvey was on his feet, running for a gurney for Mulan.

'Will she be all right?' asks Shang, eyes locked on his girlfriend. There's so much blood, and Mulan isn't moving at all. Her chest is slow to rise and fall.