The Devil Doesn't Bargain | Daerin

14 | Love and Loss

𝐇𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢 𝐏𝐎𝐕

The sterile surgical training room buzzes with the low hum of fluorescent lights. Students murmur to one another, all dressed in blue scrubs and white coats.

"Alright, everyone, let's get started," Dr. Park says in her authoritative tone. "Pair up and choose a practice model. Remember, precision and care are key."

I pair up with Jiwon, one of my closest friends in the residency program. I miss Danielle sometimes ever since she dropped out, but Jiwon has always been there for me. She never leaves my side.

We select a practice model—an artificial piece of skin designed to mimic human tissue with a more complex wound pattern. I pick up the needle and thread.

"Just like we practiced. You've got this, Hanni," Jiwon whispers to calm me, "I'll help guide the skin while you suture. Just focus on making each stitch precise."

I nod, focusing intently. As I carefully insert the needle into the synthetic skin, Jiwon keeps a steady grip on the edges, ensuring everything stays aligned.

"Perfect," she encourages. "Just keep that rhythm."

"I think I'm getting the hang of it." I start to feel more confident.

"Of course you are. We're a great team," she says proudly, her words making me calmer.

I focus on the task at hand, determined to make each stitch as precise as possible. Dr. Park and the other instructors move around the room, observing our progress.

My hand slips. The needle veers off course, creating a small tear in the model. My heart skips a beat. Panic surges through me like a tidal wave.

I glance at Jiwon, her eyes wide with concern, and then at Dr. Park, who's heading our way.

"It's okay, we'll fix this," Jiwon whispers urgently.

My hands are shaking, but I force myself to steady them. We work together quickly to cover up the mistake. 

I guide the needle back on track, making smaller, more precise stitches around the tear. Jiwon assists, helping to realign the edges of the synthetic skin with her steady hands.

Dr. Park reaches our station just as we finish the last stitch. She examines our work closely, taking in every detail with her sharp eyes.

My heart pounds in my chest, but I breathe deeply to calm myself.

"Well done," Dr. Park says finally, nodding in approval. "Remember, in real surgery, mistakes can happen. What's important is how you handle them. You both did a good job of correcting the error."

My shoulders relax as I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. I look at Jiwon and we exchange a quick smile.

"Thanks, Dr. Park. We'll keep that in mind," I mutter sincerely.

"Good. Now, continue with the rest of the sutures," she instructs before moving on to the next pair.