The Forbidden Throb (Emma and Daniel) novel Chapter 95

“Excellent work, Owen says, loud enough for the observers to hear. “Now we wait for rewarming. Thirty minutes minimum before we can close.

The anesthesiologist adjusts the warming blanket and IV fluids. The perfusionist begins the slow process of raising the patient’s core temperature back to normal.

Owen and I step away from the table, allowing the residents to observe the waiting period.

“Coffee?” Owen asks, already moving toward the small break room adjacent to the OR.

“Please.”

Owen pours two cups of the thick, bitter brew that’s kept surgeons awake for decades. He hands me one and settles into the chair with a soft

grunt.

“You’ve checked your watch four times,” Owen observes, his tone conversational.

I glance down at my wrist, then realize I’m not even wearing a watch. The gesture was pure habit. “Force of habit.”

“Hmm.” He takes another sip of coffee, his eyes sharp despite the casual tone. “I overheard some of your conversation with Luke earlier. Your wife–she’s in Portland right now? In that storm?”

I shouldn’t be surprised. The surgeon’s lounge isn’t exactly soundproof.

“Yes. For a work project.”

“And you’re worried.” It’s not a question. He sets down his cup, regarding me steadily. “That’s natural, Daniel. But you need to trust her ability to handle difficulties on her own. To take care of herself.”

“I

trust her.”

“Then what are you worried about?” Owen’s gaze doesn’t waver.

I hesitate, then admit, “She’s on this trip with someone she admires greatly. They’re staying at the same hotel, working closely together.

Understanding dawns in Owen’s eyes immediately. “Ah. So this isn’t about trusting Emma’s ability to handle a storm. This is about trusting her not to be… swayed by someone else.”

“I trust Emma,” I say firmly. “I don’t trust other people’s intentions.”

“Daniel-

“She’s young, Owen. Still figuring out what she wants, who she wants to be. People at that stage are impressionable, Venerable a natiuencer.

After all, I did exactly that myself. The thought rises unbidden, uncomfortable in its honesty

8:45 am pp-

Chapter 95

I courted Emma as her bond with Nicholas began to unravel. I observed her wavering heart, her silent struggles, and I made myself present at every turn–offering support, understanding, and an alternative.

I took advantage of her vulnerability and pulled her away from him.

Owen lets out a long breath, something between a sigh and a chuckle. “Fine. Let’s finish closing this patient up so you can do whatever it is you’re planning to do.”

We return to the OR, where the patient’s temperature has stabilized at 37.1 degrees Celsius.

I pick up the titanium needle driver. The instrument is an extension of my fingers now, after thousands of hours of practice.

Thread through tissue, pull, tie, cut.

Around me, I can feel the attention of the observers. Residents were learning, and cameras were recording every movement. This footage will be used in teaching for years, dissected frame by frame.

When I tie off the final knot and step back, the closure is flawless.

“Perfect over,” Owen announces to the room.

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