Chapter 1. A Doctor's Duty

God, I can't take this day anymore. I haven't had this many patients in ages. Five surgeries in a row. When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a doctor, inspired by my father — a military surgeon. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I hoped it wouldn't be this hard. Still, I love my job because it brings me closer to him.

My father died when I was eighteen. He was killed in the line of duty. My mother was gone even earlier — cancer took her. After Dad's death, I was left with almost no one. I have an aunt who helped me out in the beginning, but now we only see each other on holidays. Eventually, I was left completely alone, but with a clear goal — to become a doctor, just like my dad.

"Eva, quick! It's bad!" A nurse who's been working with us for barely a month bursts into the on-call room. Honestly, who even hires people like this? What does "bad" mean, exactly? Where's the professionalism?

I stood up from the chair, walked into the hallway, and saw a stretcher being rushed past me with an unconscious patient on it.

"What's wrong with him?" I asked the paramedic.

"Nothing out of the ordinary. Acute appendicitis."

Third one today. I rolled my eyes mentally. Why me? I glanced at the clock. Good news: this is my last surgery today. I'm going home!

The day went well. I packed my things and headed out. I live near the hospital, so I always walk. The air — even if it's thick with car exhaust — helps clear my mind of thoughts about scalpels, blood loss, and hours-long operations.

As I passed a local pub, I heard a noise coming from the alley behind the building. Something fell with a loud clatter.

"…the goods will be delivered in a white truck to the port. That's all we need," came a voice from around the corner.
"You sure? The cops have been too active lately. That new commissioner… he's got a bloodhound's nose," the second voice replied nervously.
"Don't worry, everything's been planned down to the last detail. The cargo will pass through customs as medical equipment. We've got someone on the inside."
"Medical equipment… Let's hope this time there won't be any bodies. Last time…"

My phone rang suddenly, making me flinch.

"Yeah?" I answered without checking the screen.
"Babe, are you almost home?" My boyfriend Tyoma's voice sounded soft but distant. We've been together for seven years, since our second year of university. Lately, I've been thinking more and more that it's time for us to take the next step. Maybe I should drop a clearer hint?
"Yeah, I'll be home in ten minutes," I said.
"Okay, I'll be waiting," he mumbled before hanging up.

The noise behind the pub distracted me again. Something fell, followed by the sound of quick footsteps — like someone was running away. I noticed a man lying on the ground.

"Hey, are you okay?" I called out, even though I knew how dumb the question sounded. He clearly wasn't okay — people don't just decide to lie down next to a dumpster.

I walked closer and stopped, unsure of what to do. Should I check on him? Or mind my own business? But I'm a doctor… what if it's a setup? I hesitantly nudged his shoe with mine — and immediately noticed blood slowly spreading across the ground.

"Oh God…" The words slipped out as a whisper, but my heart was pounding like crazy.

I pulled out my phone and, with shaking fingers, dialed emergency services and explained the situation. While waiting for the ambulance, I provided basic first aid.

I returned to the hospital with the injured man.

"Who's that?" Alena at reception asked suspiciously.
"No idea," I replied honestly, watching as the man was wheeled into surgery.
"Brought in another hobo again?"

I was about to reply when the stern voice of the chief physician cut in from the side.

"Sokolova, enough chatting! Get to the OR!"

"But my shift is over!" I tried to protest.
"A surgeon doesn't have a 'shift,' Sokolova. You said yourself this job means more to you than just a profession. Then prove it." He pointed toward the operating room.

I let out a heavy sigh and walked toward the elevator, catching the sound of Stepan Anatolyevich sharply saying something to Alena. I didn't listen, but I felt a flicker of satisfaction. Serves her right. And me? I'm back to the OR again… When will this day finally end?