Chapter 278

“What are you even saying? I’m sure Nate likes you,” I said, utterly convinced. I could see it in the way he looked at Lena—a definite spark. But she couldn't see it, probably because she'd harbored a crush on him forever and convinced herself he was out of her league. Honestly, it was just self-doubt. The only way she'd believe it was if Nate made a move. I could hype her up all day, but it wouldn't matter unless he acted.

“Alright, I’m heading out. But listen, you have to look amazing tonight. And make sure you switch your shift, okay? No excuses. You can’t bail,” I said, sounding more like her mother than I intended.

She rolled her eyes, laughing. “My mom doesn’t even stress over me this much.”

Yeah, probably because her mom had no clue how intensely she’d been crushing on him.

“Good luck, Lena.” I gave her a fist bump. “I’m out.”

“Wait, don’t go yet. Come with me to my office first,” Lena said, grabbing my arm.

“Why? I need to get back to Hayden to discuss Yuna’s surgery,” I reminded her. She still held on tight. “This’ll only take a minute.”

I had no idea what she wanted, but I followed her to her office. She rummaged through a drawer and produced a small tube of ointment, handing it to me.

“What’s this?” I asked, examining it.

Before I could process it, Lena explained, “When you get home, clean the area thoroughly, then apply this. It’ll reduce swelling, improve circulation, and heal any bruising.” That’s when it clicked. I knew exactly what it was for.

Even though Lena and I were best friends and had seen each other naked countless times, my face heated up.

“I’m fine, really. I don’t need it,” I muttered, embarrassed.

“Don’t play tough. I can tell,” Lena said, giving me that knowing look, like she was diagnosing a patient.

I fidgeted with the tube, avoiding her gaze. “Is it really that serious?”

“Absolutely. The first time can cause small tears, bleeding, or even inflammation. If you’re not careful, it could lead to infections or, rarely, affect your reproductive health,” she said, sounding like she was giving a medical lecture.

I coughed awkwardly. “You doctors really know how to freak people out, huh?”

“I’m just looking out for you,” Lena said, nodding toward the examination table. “Lie down, and I’ll give you a quick checkup.”