The Cold Surgeon's Contract Bride novel Chapter 312

Zoey was petite to begin with, but standing in front of the towering Ferris, she looked even more fragile. She stared up at him through tear-blurred eyes, her red-rimmed gaze the absolute picture of heartbreak and injustice.

Forget Ferris—even I felt a tug of pity watching her.

If there hadn't been a room full of people watching, she probably would have thrown herself directly into his arms.

Ferris strode in, his gaze flickering across my face for a split second before sweeping past me entirely.

He looked down at Zoey, who was weeping beautifully in front of him, and reached out to gently pat her shoulder. "Don't cry."

His voice was low, gentle, and layered with restrained adoration.

She was small, and he was imposing. She was vulnerable, and he was protective. She was a delicate flower trembling in the wind, and he was a sturdy, sheltering tree, guarding her against the storm.

In that instant, my disorientation shattered. I was wide awake.

Ferris was officially suspended. By all administrative rules, after facing the Investigative Committee, he was supposed to stay home, keep his head down, and maintain a strict distance from Zoey, the other focal point of this massive scandal.

But he cared about her too much. He couldn't bear to see his pampered darling suffer even the slightest grievance, so he had rushed back to the hospital to check on her.

He was even carrying the lunch he had brought specifically for her.

He had hurried over like a hero racing to save his true love.

And that true love was Zoey.

"Isn't it your shift today?" Ferris didn't humor Zelda's complaints, his tone turning decidedly sharp. "Why aren't you out on rounds?"

Zelda froze, swallowing whatever she was about to say. She lowered her head. "Yes, it's time for rounds. I'll go with Dr. Hudson."

It was a miracle. The moment Zelda left, the entire locker room fell completely silent.

Ferris turned to Dr. Yates. "I just came to drop something off. I overheard what was happening, so I stopped by to take a look. This incident is truly egregious. I agree with Dr. Yates—it should be reported to the hospital board, thoroughly investigated, and strictly handled."

"Good, then that's how we'll proceed. I'll go speak with Dean Davidson." Dr. Yates looked noticeably relieved. She nodded briskly and left the locker room.

"Dr. Sterling is always so reasonable." Ms. Hunter relaxed as well, offering a cheerful smile as she pulled Amber toward the door. "Come on, Amber. Let's go prep."