our crossed paths | jww.

twenty two.

After Jiwoo hurried away from Wonwoo's car and entered the hospital, her thoughts were still swirling with a mix of emotions—excitement, embarrassment, and, unexpectedly, the news from Eunji about the vice president wanting to see her.

She barely had time to collect herself before being called to the office.

Walking in, she was greeted by the serious expressions of both Dr. Lee and the vice president. Jiwoo felt her stomach tighten, though she tried to remain composed.

"Dr. Jiwoo, take a seat," the vice president said, his voice firm but not unkind.

Jiwoo nodded, sitting down cautiously. Her mind raced with possible scenarios—was it something about her performance? Was there another issue she wasn't aware of?

"We have good news," Dr. Lee started, his expression softening. "The investigation surrounding Haejoon's death has concluded. You are officially cleared of any wrongdoing, and this case is now closed."

Jiwoo's heart stopped for a moment. The words hit her harder than she expected. The weight she had been carrying for so long finally felt like it was lifting, but there was still a trace of fear lingering in her heart.

"As a result," the vice president continued, "we are transferring you back to the emergency department, effective immediately. The decision is based on your skills and experience, which are greatly needed there."

Jiwoo blinked, the suddenness of the transfer leaving her stunned. "Back to the ER?" she murmured, her voice shaky with disbelief.

"Yes," Dr. Lee confirmed. "I know it's a surprise, but we believe this is the right move for your career. And there's more. If you successfully complete this final emergency rotation over the next three months, without any issues, you will be promoted to medical officer, just like Dr. Lee Seokmin."

The news should have filled her with joy, but Jiwoo's heart was still racing. The thought of returning to the ER, the very place where she lost Haejoon, made her chest tighten. She was excited, but the fear of facing those memories, of possibly losing someone again, gnawed at her.

"You've always been a great doctor, Jiwoo," the vice president said, sensing her hesitation. "This is a chance to prove that again. We believe in you."

Jiwoo looked at them both, a whirlwind of emotions surging inside her. This was an opportunity she had longed for, but it also felt like stepping back into the painful past.

"Thank you," she finally managed to say, her voice steady. "I appreciate the opportunity."

As Jiwoo stepped out of the vice president's office, still processing the news of her sudden transfer back to the emergency department, she heard hurried footsteps behind her.

"Jiwoo! Wait up!" Seokmin called out, jogging to catch up with her. He fell into step beside her, a knowing smile on his face. "So, back to the ER, huh?"

Jiwoo glanced at him with a small smile. "Yeah, it's... unexpected. I didn't think I'd be going back so soon."

"You ready for it?"

She let out a soft sigh. "I don't know. Part of me is excited, but another part is sad to leave the paediatric department. I've gotten attached to the kids and the staff. They've been like family these past few months. Plus, Ahrin's in the same building... I won't see her as often now."

"Ahrin, huh?" Seokmin grinned, clearly enjoying the chance to tease her. "Is it really Ahrin you'll miss? Or maybe her father?"

Jiwoo immediately felt her face grow warm. "Of course, it's Ahrin," she replied, trying to sound nonchalant. "She's sweet, and we've bonded."