Chapter 3

The next morning, the official document transferring me to logistics was distributed to all departments.

At the morning meeting, the head nurse slammed the desk so hard it shook.

"Some people put their own selfish interests ahead of the entire department's reputation. And look at the result—you all saw it."

"Don't any of you follow that bad example. Don't think being a veteran employee gives you special privileges. Everyone is equal in this hospital!"

The young nurses didn't dare make a sound, only casting curious glances at my not-yet-swollen belly.

I ignored it all and focused on packing up my things.

The eight certificates of excellence I'd once been so proud of went to the very bottom of the box.

As I carried my things out, not a single person came to help.

Even though I'd covered their night shifts so many times. Even though I'd taught them hand-in-hand how to assist in surgery.

Only the head nurse looked up at me.

She said, "Chloe, you'll regret this. But it'll be too late."

But I wanted to say—I won't. The ones who'll regret this will be them.

As I placed my box on the cart, Melody came breezing into our department again.

It seemed her shifts really had been reduced. Otherwise she wouldn't be so free.

Melody held an armful of candy, distributing it to all the young nurses.

"It's a custom from back home—when you first get pregnant, you give everyone candy to bring good fortune to the baby."

Immediately, everyone in the department chimed in.

"Dr. Harris, don't worry. The baby will definitely be born safe and sound!"

"Yeah, you're so beautiful. The baby will take after you and be gorgeous too."

The head nurse's voice was the loudest.

"If you ask me, babies need to know how to choose the right womb."

"Being born to Dr. Harris means a lifetime of happiness. Being born to someone else? Well, that's another story!"

I gripped the cart handle, my lips pressed tight. I said nothing.

Instead, Melody walked over with a smile, stuffing the last few pieces of candy into my hand.

"Nurse Chloe, I heard about what happened to you. Have this candy for good luck."

"I wish, I wish you success with your next pregnancy."

"Not next time," I said calmly, lifting my head.

"I've already applied to transfer to logistics. I'm keeping this baby."

"Dr. Harris, your uncle helped reduce your shifts. Since you haven't been at work, you naturally wouldn't know this news."

Melody froze, her face flushing red then white, apparently not expecting me to mention their relationship so openly.

I didn't look at her again and pulled my cart toward the exit.

But I'd barely taken a step when I heard the head nurse's furious voice.

"Chloe! Wait!"

"Did you take something you shouldn't have? Put it down!"