Chapter 6
The hall erupted into chaos; people crowded around, eager to see what was happening. “When’s the ambulance arriving? If something happens to Mr. Stewart, the Stewart family will be after us!”
Elizabeth looked up to see a man, about fifty, lying on the ground, pale as a sheet. The city hospital was a fifteen-minute drive away, but it was rush hour. Waiting for the ambulance might be too late. Seeing his condition worsen, Elizabeth, possessing basic medical training, hesitated.
Elizabeth frowned and stepped forward. “Let me see.” All eyes were on her.
“Can you even do it? Everyone knows the Percy family is full of doctors, except you. You’re useless and know nothing about medicine!” “If something happens to Mr. Stewart, can you handle it? This is serious!”
The crowd grew louder and more chaotic, their noise filling Elizabeth’s ears with doubt. Before she could touch the man, she was shoved aside.
“Even if he dies, we don’t need someone useless like you trying to save him!” A woman’s voice cut through the din, accompanied by a sharp push.
Even if he died, they didn't want her help? She was useless? Since when had her medical skills been questioned? She’d only been out of the public eye for three years. How had her reputation deteriorated so drastically?
“I am a doctor, let me!”
This strong, firm voice commanded attention, drawing surprised gasps. It was Esme.
The crowd erupted. “It’s Ms. Russell! Mr. Stewart will be saved, she’s a cardiothoracic surgeon!” “Wow, Ms. Russell really stepped up! She’s just as amazing and kind-hearted as the news says!”
Esme was treated as a miracle worker, instantly placed on a pedestal. Elizabeth’s earlier attempt to help now seemed futile.
Esme knelt beside Landon Stewart, found heart pills in his pocket, and said, “Everyone, back up a bit, give him some space.” “Is any of his family here? Does he have any other medical issues besides heart disease?” she asked, receiving no response. There was no time for such questions. She administered the pills and began CPR.
Many prominent figures attended the banquet, providing Esme the perfect opportunity to showcase her skills. She needed to impress Alexander’s family, proving herself as capable as Elizabeth if she wanted to marry him.
As everyone held their breath, someone shouted, “He moved!” Landon’s fingers twitched, and he slowly opened his eyes, still looking pale. Esme gently asked, “Mr. Stewart, how are you feeling? Any better?” Landon frowned, clutching his chest. Esme quickly added, “The ambulance is on its way. You’re safe now!”
The room erupted in applause and praise. “Ms. Russell is really something, unlike some others…” “Elizabeth’s from a family of doctors, but got into med school through connections. And now she thinks she can treat Mr. Stewart? That’s just reckless!”
Landon’s eyes fluttered shut, his lips moving silently. Esme, concluding he wasn’t fully recovered, ignored him. Elizabeth remained quiet, unfazed by their chatter. She had indeed gained admission to medical school through connections, but watching Esme, her gaze turned icy. Was Esme truly the one who’d gained entry through unconventional means?
Esme shot Elizabeth a quick, guilty glance. “Thanks for the recognition. Actually, Elizabeth’s pretty capable too.”
“Her? I wouldn’t trust her with my life!”
“Ms. Russell, can I get your contact information?” Alexander, who had been silent, spoke coldly. “Stop hitting on my fiancée.”
Those around exchanged amused glances. “Look, Mr. Tudor’s being protective.” Esme blushed, shyly saying, “Alexander…”
Elizabeth’s eyes dimmed; she looked down, a sharp pain seizing her heart. It wasn’t their doubts and attacks that hurt, but hearing Alexander repeatedly call Esme his fiancée was worse than death.
Esme smiled subtly, feeling immense pride. Previously with Elizabeth, she’d been merely a supporting character, enhancing Elizabeth’s brilliance. Now? Now, it was her turn to shine! Esme glanced at Elizabeth, malice flickering in her eyes. She was going to take everything from Elizabeth!
Amidst the praise, Mr. Stewart, who had been improving, suddenly began convulsing. “Mr. Stewart doesn’t look good! Ms. Russell, check him out, quickly!”
Esme rushed over, noticing Mr. Stewart’s labored breathing. She felt lost. Was it his heart? Or was he struggling to breathe? “Did you eat anything?” Esme asked Landon. Landon clutched his neck, his face contorted in pain. Esme, baffled, continued her examination, growing increasingly flustered.
Elizabeth looked up, assessing Landon’s condition and checking the time. ‘I can’t wait any longer,’ she thought. She borrowed a pen from a passing waiter.
“Ms. Russell, can you handle this?” someone asked. Esme looked up, seeing the crowd still admiring her. Even if she couldn't, she had to persevere. “I’ll take another look,” she said, her voice trembling. Even as a top heart surgeon, lately all she could think about was Alexander. Her studies had suffered. She couldn’t afford to fail. If something happened to Landon under her care, her career would be ruined. No way was she risking her reputation!
Just as the situation intensified, Esme was shoved aside. A cold voice cut through the tension, “Move!”