Chapter 423

Eleanor Sinclair's brow creased as she responded, "This isn't about making history. It's about what's best for the patient."

Grace Monroe pressed her lips together briefly before answering, "I understand. I was merely making conversation."

She turned back to Evelyn Hartley, curiosity brightening her features. "When is the procedure scheduled?"

"Tomorrow at eight in the morning," Evelyn replied.

Eleanor's expression softened with concern. "Will your injured ankle interfere with your performance?" she asked.

Evelyn offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Grandma. I'll manage just fine."

Eleanor nodded. "That's good to hear."

The following morning, as Evelyn prepared to leave for the hospital, Grace approached her holding a container. "Here." She extended it toward Evelyn. "I made you breakfast. Take it with you."

Evelyn blinked in surprise. It had been years since her mother had prepared breakfast for her.

Grace gently pushed the container into her arms with a soft smile. "Well? Don't just stand there. Take it," she urged.

Evelyn's lips curved slightly. "Thank you, Mom." She tucked the container under her arm and left the house, unaware that this day would be anything but ordinary. A day that would nearly claim her life.

Evelyn arrived at the hospital early and quickly changed into her white coat. She retrieved the breakfast Grace had prepared and began eating. Though she disliked the artichoke dish, she finished everything, not wanting to waste food.

With breakfast done, she started preparing for the upcoming surgery. When the time came, Evelyn proceeded to the operating room. Today marked her debut as lead surgeon, a significant milestone since her promotion to attending physician.

The surgery began smoothly. The resident doctors and surgical nurses assisting Evelyn were impressed by her speed and precision. Her movements were both swift and fluid, as if she had decades of experience.

But during a critical moment, her colleagues noticed an unexpected tremor in her hand as she held the scalpel.

"Dr. Hartley, are you alright?" one of the doctors asked, breaking the tense silence.

Evelyn's face tightened momentarily. She shook her head calmly. "I'm fine."

She dismissed the incident and continued the procedure. As the surgery progressed, however, Evelyn's breathing became shallow, and her hands trembled again. Still, she remained determined to complete the operation.

She couldn't afford distractions now, not at this pivotal moment. She steadied herself, focusing intently. Yet as time passed, she grew increasingly uncomfortable.