The Doctor and his Engineer

Prologue

DISCLAIMER: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

                         

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It was a pleasant day at the hospital where I work. The sun streamed through the large windows, casting a warm glow across the sterile hallways and patient rooms. I moved from one patient to the next, feeling a deep sense of fulfillment. My days were filled with the hum of medical equipment, the rustle of nurses' uniforms, and the quiet murmur of conversations between doctors and patients.

Every moment of my day was dedicated to treating my patients. From early morning rounds to late-night emergencies, I found purpose in my work. Without a partner or pets to care for, I was free to devote all my time and energy to my patients. My life outside the hospital was simple, allowing me to return each day with a clear mind and focused heart.

Three hours later, I was paged to the emergency room due to an accident. Once I put on my disposable lab gown, I was shocked to see a lot of workers in pain. After the operation, I saw a familiar man talking on the phone.

"I can't go; can you please check the townhouse in Ortigas? I'm here at the hospital checking my workers."

After the call, I called my friend at the nurse's station to ask something, but it was just a pretense. It was Kai, my ex, which confused me since I thought he was in America. I then went to our office, reflecting on what happened earlier, until I noticed he had followed me on Instagram again. I decided to follow him back since it was in the past and I am okay now.

Before heading home, I checked on my patients and had a super late dinner at a nearby restaurant. I live alone in Quezon City. After a short rest, I took a warm shower and checked my email. My father's secretary had emailed me, asking me to proxy for my father at a meeting the next day. I agreed, as I sometimes attend his meetings due to his tight schedule. The secretary provided me with a background on the meeting.

I took a deep breath before entering the conference room, sweating from running to get there on time, though I was only a little late. I didn't initially focus on the presenters because my father's friends began asking where he was. The presentation then started, featuring Engineer Kaleb Yuchengco and his team. I remained calm, and my seatmate mentioned that the president had chosen the Pangilinan-Yuchengco Development Corporation for the project.

The presentation went smoothly and impressed me. I received a text from Dr. Cortez inviting me to her party the next night. I informed her in person that I would attend. There was a mall within walking distance, where I bought her a gift.

The next day, I decided to bring my party outfit and change at the hospital. After lunch, I visited a patient who was celebrating her birthday and a farewell party for recovering from her severe injury.

After the party, on the hospital's main floor, the patient thanked me and wished me happiness in finding a boyfriend. I laughed, recalling our previous conversation about love life. The party started at 9 p.m., but I was still finishing my rounds. I had already changed clothes, so I booked a car since I prefer not to drive to parties.

When I arrived at the club Dr. Cortez rented, it was filled with guests I mostly knew. She noticed me and walked over to greet me. I gave her the gift, and we began to have a drink. My co-workers were there, but not all of them could make it due to their night shifts.

By 1:00 a.m., feeling quite drunk, I decided to head home as I was feeling dizzy. Dr. Cortez asked if I knew Engineer Yuchengco, and I said yes. She mentioned he was also invited but hadn't attended, which was a relief. I booked a car and told her I needed to go home. She thanked me and escorted me outside.

A car pulled up, and I got inside, greeting the driver with, "Good evening po kuya," before closing the door.

That was the last thing I remembered. I woke up around 11:00 a.m., shocked to find I wasn't in my apartment. I quietly gathered my things and made my way out, wondering if I had met someone last night.

"Before you leave, you should eat your lunch, boo."