Chapter 275

I meant it. Even without a medical background, his explanations were easy to follow, showcasing the impressive nature of modern medicine.

“What’s up with you? You look like you’ve been up to no good,” Lena teased, ignoring my praise and focusing on my demeanor. No surprise there—her gynecological expertise gave her a sixth sense for these things. She didn't just notice something was amiss; she practically knew why.

I pouted. “Just a little worn out.”

Lena’s eyes widened. “You… you actually did it? With who?”

The first part was understandable, but the last two words were a bit much. I glanced around, thankful for the lack of nearby onlookers. Biting my lip, I replied, “Who do you think?”

Lena squinted. “Hayden?”

My silence was answer enough. She nodded slowly, then shook her head. “I can’t believe it. Jace was with you for ten years and never got that far, but Hayden swoops in and seals the deal?”

I was stunned into silence.

“What happened? Did you make the first move?” Lena asked, clearly overestimating my boldness.

I cleared my throat. “It was mutual.”

Lena burst out laughing, obviously teasing me.

I glared. “What’s so funny? It’s true! I didn’t force anything.”

“That’s not the point. The point is, you managed to snag such a good-looking guy. You definitely came out on top,” Lena said, each word more shocking than the last.

I smirked. “Dr. Lane, I always wondered why you haven’t shown interest in anyone or gotten involved with any guys all these years. Turns out you’ve been holding out for someone like Professor Neumann, thinking only that would be worthwhile?”

Lena wasn’t shy. “Exactly. If you’re going to do it, make it count—with someone you really like and who’s exceptional.”

“He is exceptional. It’d be a shame to let it pass by. You should just tell him how you feel. Who knows? It might actually work out,” I encouraged.

Lena pressed her lips together. “It’s impossible between us. If I confess, there are only two possible outcomes.”

“What are they?”

Lena hesitated. “One, we start a relationship and fall deeply in love. Two, I confess and lose him completely, not even as a friend.”

I chuckled. “That’s such an obvious statement. Isn’t it like that for any couple?”

She shook her head, her smile tinged with self-mockery. “For us, it would definitely be the latter. So I’d rather say nothing and still have him as a friend.”

Seeing her like this, I realized the depth of her feelings for Nate. They ran so deep they shaped her future relationships and even her choice of partner. I wanted to urge her to take a leap, but everyone has their reasons, and it wasn’t my place to push.

So, I remained silent and glanced toward where Nate had been standing. To my surprise, he was gone.

“Where’s your Nate? Let’s go find him!” I said, tugging on Lena’s arm.

She turned, and there was Nate, standing right behind us in his white coat. Both Lena and I froze. We had no idea how long he’d been there or how much he’d overheard.

Lena was clearly nervous, even embarrassed. She started fidgeting, tucking her hair behind her ear—her telltale habit when awkward or self-conscious. She was so flustered she forgot to say hello.

My social instincts kicked in. I stepped forward and extended my hand. “Professor Neumann, hi! I’m Lena’s friend, Keira. Your lecture was absolutely amazing.”

Nate shook my hand lightly, then released it, his eyes immediately returning to Lena. I nudged her with my elbow, signaling her to speak.