Chapter 867

“No problem. Let’s schedule the simulations after work each day. It’ll mean some extra hours, but I appreciate everyone’s effort,” Nate said, nodding to the team to show his gratitude. Lena added, “If anyone has concerns or special circumstances, please let me know in advance so I can make adjustments.” As the primary surgeon responsible for the operation, she not only had to ensure the procedure’s success but also maintain the morale of the entire medical team.

Everyone shook their heads, indicating they had no issues.

“Great. In that case, you can all head home and get some rest. Dr. Lane and I will stay back to finalize a few details,” Nate said, dismissing the team but keeping Lena behind.

The two went over the finer points of the plan, and by the time they finished, it was nearly 9 p.m.

“I noticed this morning that Mr. Ace dropped you off. Is your car broken?” Nate asked. He had seen her getting out of Aaron’s car earlier.

“Flat tire,” Lena replied, realizing she hadn’t even checked if the car had been fixed.

“Let me give you a ride home, then,” Nate offered smoothly.

Lena hesitated, recalling what Aaron had said the night before. But since she hadn’t received any messages from him all day, she figured he was either too busy or had spoken casually without meaning it. Still, she had no intention of accepting Nate’s offer. “No need. I’ll just call a cab.”

“Lena,” Nate said her name softly, his tone carrying a trace of longing. “Is it really so unreasonable for me to give you a ride?”

Lena smiled politely but firmly. “If we were just colleagues, of course, it wouldn’t be a problem. But we’re not. We used to be in a relationship, and it’s better if we avoid any unnecessary closeness.”

“Are you afraid of something?” Nate asked directly.

“I’m not afraid of rekindling old feelings,” Lena said lightly. “I’m afraid you might think there’s still hope for us.”

Nate’s expression darkened. He understood her meaning all too well. She was making it clear that reconciliation was out of the question.

“I didn’t expect you to be so heartless,” Nate murmured.

“Have you never heard the nurses here call me the ‘Heartless Master’ behind my back?” Lena joked about herself, taking a step forward. “Goodbye, Professor Neumann.”

Nate let out a long sigh. “Goodbye? I’m heading out too. Surely, we can share the elevator?”

“I’m not that petty,” Lena replied, stepping into the elevator with him.

The elevator’s mirrored walls reflected their images as they stood side by side, separated by the width of half a person. She couldn’t help but think back to when they were inseparable. Back then, even a minute in an elevator wouldn’t go by without them holding hands, hugging, or stealing a kiss.

Nate had never appreciated how happy he’d been until now, standing next to her in silence. “Lena…” he began softly, but before he could say more, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened.

Lena stepped out first, with Nate following a few seconds later.

As they exited the hospital’s main lobby, they saw a sleek black Cayenne parked outside. Beside the car stood a tall, upright figure.

“Uncle, you actually came?” Lena said, surprised.

“I told you I’d pick you up every day. How could I not come?” Aaron replied, his gaze shifting to Nate behind her.

Nate looked back at him, their eyes locking briefly in silent confrontation.

“Well, let’s go. I haven’t eaten yet, so I need to grab something quickly,” Lena said, walking toward the car. She reached for the door, but Aaron beat her to it, opening it for her.

Lena climbed into the car, and Aaron closed the door for her. He gave Nate a polite nod before walking around to the driver’s side.

Nate stood still as the Cayenne pulled away, his figure reflecting faintly in the rearview mirror as the car disappeared into the night.