Chapter 4 IV

As Tasha dashed up the concrete steps leading to the working venue floor, she could sense her stomach convulsing with nerves. She knew that being tardy was a definite no-no in any professional setting, let alone in a busy public hospital, where every minute counted. Winning the approval of the senior staff was not an easy feat to achieve.

To make matters worse, this was Tasha's most important roster since she had started her new term in neurosurgery. She had heard that Peter O'Connor, the consultant neurosurgeon, was a pleasant and supportive person. But Tasha did not want to take any chances by starting off on the wrong foot with him.

After completing the mandatory pre-operation cleaning procedure, Tasha gowned up and walked into the theater just as the senior consultant neurosurgeon turned his attention from the now anesthetized patient to meet her gaze with his deep blue eyes.

'Oh my... goodness,' Tasha gulped, feeling her stomach lurching at the thought of his stern gaze.

As her eyes widened in shock, a knot formed in the pit of her stomach, causing her to swallow hard. "Oh my God," she murmured under her breath, barely able to comprehend the situation.

Ella's words snapped her out of her daze. "Natasha Williams, I presume," she said, offering a polite smile. "Welcome to our unit."

Tasha nodded, her lips pursed in a tight line. "Yes, emergency room. Thank you," she replied, her tone subdued. But then, scowling, she added pitifully, "Sorry I-I'm late...I had somewhat of a mishap."