Estella and Alaric have been best friends since they were kids, and they've always been there for each other. But after a misunderstanding, Alaric started to hate Estella. So what happens when they meet up again after a few years? Will their differe...
As I complete my duties for the day, a heavy weight of stress hangs over me. Today has been particularly challenging, with the unexpected reunion with Alaric and the sight of his grandmother in such a critical condition. Mixed emotions swirl within me as I reflect on the events of the day.
At first, the prospect of seeing Alaric again after so many years fills me with excitement. Memories of our friendship flood back, and for a brief moment, I allow myself to entertain the possibility of reconnecting with him. But then, like a dark cloud looming overhead, the memories of past accusations and betrayal come rushing back.
I can't shake the hurt and disappointment I feel towards Alaric. Despite once being my closest friend, he turned his back on me when I needed him the most. Instead of standing by my side and believing in me, he chose to believe the accusations leveled against me, casting me as a scapegoat for a crime I didn't commit.
With a heavy heart, I gather my belongings and make my way to the parking lot. Sitting in my car, I'm on the verge of starting the engine when the shrill ring of my phone shatters the silence. Reluctantly, I answer the call, my heart sinking as I hear the urgency in the caller's voice.
It's the hospital, informing me that Mrs. Easterwood's condition has taken a turn for the worse. Without a moment's hesitation, I spring into action, my mind racing with thoughts of what needs to be done. I can't afford to dwell on my personal feelings or the past; there's a life at stake, and I have a duty to fulfill.
Rushing back into the hospital, I find myself in the ICU, surrounded by the frantic beeping of machines and the tense atmosphere of urgency. Alaric stands by his grandmother's bedside, his expression a mix of fear and desperation.
Without hesitation, I instruct him to leave the room, knowing that I need to focus all my attention on Mrs. Easterwood's care.
Taking charge of the situation, I begin assessing Mrs. Easterwood's condition, my training and experience kicking into high gear.
With Dr. Vincent absent from the hospital, the responsibility falls squarely on my shoulders, and I'm determined to rise to the occasion.
Working alongside the nurses, I do everything in my power to stabilize Mrs. Easterwood's condition, my hands moving swiftly and decisively as I administer treatments and monitor her vital signs. The minutes stretch into hours, but I refuse to give up hope, pouring every ounce of strength and determination into my efforts to keep her stable.
Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the beeping of the machines begins to subside, replaced by the steady rhythm of Mrs. Easterwood's heartbeat. With a sigh of relief, I allow myself a moment to catch my breath, grateful that my efforts have paid off.
I instruct the staff to make sure Mrs. Easterwood's condition stays stable. After ensuring everything is in order, I leave the room and meet Alaric outside. He asks about his grandmother's condition, concern etched across his face. I assure him that she's alright and in stable condition. He thanks me, and I nod before heading back to my cabin.
Inside, I take a moment to rest when there's a knock on my door. "Come in," I say, and to my surprise, it's Alaric.
I ask him if everything is okay, but his demeanor seems tense. He smirked for a moment before blurting out, "Everything was until I knew your truth."
Confused, I ask him what he's talking about. He confronts me, saying that I still haven't learned to lie to someone.
"Is it true, Dr. Estella Campbell, or if I may say, Ella?" he questions, dropping a bombshell that freezes me in my place.
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AUTHOR'S POV
Alaric stands at the door, leaning on the frame. He steps forward, looking serious. "Do you truly believe it's your fault if you think you can fool Alaric Easterwood?" he questions firmly.
"I've built a big reputation in this business. I can spot anyone trying to deceive me easily. Now, I'm offering you a chance to correct your error."
He continues, emphasizing the importance. "You won't be involved in my grandmother's surgery. And as long as she's here, you're to stay away from her completely. I can't risk any harm to her during my surgery because of someone untrustworthy." Alaric's tone is unwavering, showing he means every word.
After Alaric's shocking accusation, Estella feels a surge of anger and determination. She thinks, "How dare he challenge my integrity and professionalism?" But instead of succumbing to the rising frustration, she draws upon her inner strength and remains composed.
"Mr. Alaric Easterwood," Estella begins, her voice steady despite the turmoil within her, "I understand your concerns, but I can't simply abandon my responsibilities, especially when a patient's life is at stake".
I will take part in Mrs. Easterwood's surgery because I firmly believe that I am not the culprit in that incident."
Alaric's face twisted with frustration. He clenched his fists tightly, his eyes burning with anger. "You're deluding yourself, Estella," he retorts bitterly. "Somehow, I'll make sure you don't take part in the surgery. My grandmother is in this condition because of you."
His words sting, but Estella refuses to let them deter her. With unwavering resolve, she meets his challenge head-on. "You can try, Mr. Alaric Easterwood," Estella says firmly, locking eyes with him. "But I won't back down. I'll do whatever it takes to ensure Mrs. Easterwood receives the care she needs, regardless of your accusations."
As Alaric storms out of the cabin, leaving behind an air of tension, Estella can't help but marvel at her own strength of mind. Despite the weight of his accusations and the uncertainty of what lies ahead, Estella remains resolute in her convictions.
She thinks, "Whatever it takes, she will not back down from the grandmother's surgery," guided by the strength of her convictions and the unwavering determination to do what is right.
"As for Alaric," she reflects, "I know that he will try hard to stop me from taking part in the surgery, but I will not back down. I am not that weak Estella anymore. I am now Dr. Estella. I will always remain strong-minded and determined to succeed.