CHAPTER 13: The Hospital Gala

36 4 0
                                    


The annual hospital gala was the most anticipated event of the year. It was an evening of elegance, celebration, and recognition for the hard work and dedication of the staff.
This year, the excitement was tinged with a new kind of anticipation for Caddion and Percival, as they had decided to attend as a couple.

A few weeks before the gala, Caddion approached Percival after a particularly grueling shift. The hospital was finally quiet, the hum of the fluorescent lights the only sound in the corridor.

“Percival, do you have a minute?”

Caddion asked, his voice a mix of nerves and excitement.

Percival turned to him, wiping the sweat from his brow.

“Of course, Caddion. What’s up?”

Caddion took a deep breath, gathering his courage.

“I was wondering… the hospital gala is coming up, and I’d like you to be my date. Officially.”

Percival’s eyes widened in surprise, then softened with affection.

“I’d love that, Caddion. It’s a big step for us.”

Caddion nodded, his anxiety easing with Percival’s acceptance.

“It is, but I think we’re ready. I want us to be seen as a couple, to celebrate who we are together.”

Percival reached out, taking Caddion’s hand.

“I’m with you, Caddion. Let’s do it.”

As the date of the gala approached, the hospital buzzed with anticipation. Decorations were put up, and the staff chatted excitedly about their outfits and dates. Caddion and Percival’s decision to attend together had sparked curiosity and whispers, but they were determined to face it head-on.

On the night of the gala, Percival stood in front of his mirror, adjusting his bow tie for the third time. He felt a mix of excitement and nerves, the significance of the evening weighing on him. Just then, his phone buzzed with a message from Caddion.

“Ready to pick you up. See you in five minutes.”

Percival smiled, his nerves easing slightly. He took one last look in the mirror, straightening his jacket, before heading downstairs to wait for Caddion.

When Caddion arrived, Percival’s breath caught in his throat. Caddion looked dashing in his tuxedo, his eyes bright with excitement.

“You look incredible,”
Percival said, his voice filled with admiration.

Caddion grinned, stepping closer. “You look amazing too, Percival. Ready for tonight?”

Percival nodded, his hand slipping into Caddion’s.
“Ready as I’ll ever be.”

They arrived at the venue, a grand ballroom decorated with twinkling lights and elegant floral arrangements. The atmosphere was festive, with laughter and music filling the air. As they walked in together, all eyes turned towards them.

Caddion squeezed Percival’s hand, a silent gesture of reassurance.

“We’ve got this,”
he whispered.

HEALING HEARTS Where stories live. Discover now