Chapter 5
Chapter 5: How Others See Her
The nurse and female doctor nearby whispered, “Dr. Taylor is really handsome!” Their eyes sparkled with admiration, almost fixated on him.
Another chimed in, “He’s so charming, isn’t he?“$
“It’s rare to see him here. Shouldn’t he have his usual spot?”
“Are you blind? Can’t you see Emma sitting with him?”
The three of them exchanged remarks, “All they noticed is a handsome man; no one else, haha!“>
The women at the neighboring table also turned their attention to the scene, whispering among themselves, “Do they even look like a couple? They seem so distant.”
“They don’t interact or make eye contact at all.“0
“Yeah, it seems like Dr. Taylor doesn’t look too happy either.“@
“Oh? You don’t know? Dr. Taylor has never been fond of Dr. Johnson.“@
“That sounds a bit harsh.“@
“Ah, you wouldn’t know, would you? Dr. Johnson chased after Dr. Taylor for three years, expressing her feelings while following him like a shadow. The whole hospital knew about it. Understandably, you missed it since you haven’t been here long.”
Upon hearing the gossip brewing at this table, people from the adjacent table wanted to join in and moved toward them with their food trays.
Thus, the original trio became five or six people, soon turning into a group of seven or eight gathered around the table.!!
“What? There’s such gossip? This sounds like a classic tale! Please, tell us more.”
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The new nurse’s eyes lit up with curiosity. She spoke animatedly, like a storyteller, “At first, Dr. Johnson would send flowers and chocolates to Dr. Taylor’s office every day.”
Someone quickly commented, “That’s a bit intense, isn’t it? Usually, it’s men who send flowers to women, not the other way around.“”
Another person added, “If it’s for Valentine’s Day or a special occasion, that’s one thing, but this seems excessive.”
“Only such dedication could win Dr. Taylor’s heart, unlike us common folks. We know our place and feel we can’t reach someone like him.“@
“You’re implying she’s desperate, aren’t you? That’s a bit harsh.“0
“Could you be quiet? Can’t you see the truth behind appearances? Look at their current state–there’s no sign of love between them. Even if she did successfully pursue him,
did Dr. Taylor ever seem to care?“0
Several people nodded in agreement, “Hmm, you do make some sense. Girls shouldn’t throw themselves at guys; it won’t be appreciated.“}
“Some people are just out of reach for ordinary folks like us. It’s best to admire attractive people from afar. Let’s learn from these mistakes.”
“Quit calling me harsh. Aren’t you just as bad?“>
“Their story could be framed as ‘a passionately infatuated female doctor ardently pursues a handsome, American–trained doctor, resulting in an emotionally distant
relationship. This should serve as a cautionary tale.“@
Everyone: “…“0
Even though the comments were whispered, every word reached Emma’s ears. Luc took a phone call, oblivious to the gossip surrounding them.§
As Emma held a cup of milk, the drink inside swirled around, spilling onto the table. She hurriedly pulled out a napkin to clean up the mess, her eyes unfocused, her face
drained of color. Feeling as cold as the wind outside, she stood up, grabbed her phone, and left.
Luc had just hung up when he noticed Emma leaving hastily from the corner of his eye.
“Stop talking. Did she hear that?“>
Everyone looked at each other, trying to figure out who the real troublemaker was.
Emma didn’t take the elevator. Like a headless chicken, she avoided the crowd through the fire exit, climbed several flights of stairs, and arrived at a deserted area. Trembling, she leaned against the wall to steady herself. Slowly, she squatted in the corner, her fists clenched against her pale lips. As pain surged, tears welled up in her eyes.@
What was wrong with what those people said in the cafeteria? Nothing. She was just too blind to see. She had been desperately chasing someone who didn’t love her for three years. What ridiculous things hadn’t she done?}
Now she had become the butt of others‘ jokes, a source of entertainment for them. Who could she blame? It was all her choice; wouldn’t regret being useless?!
Her nails dug deeply into her skin. Her phone rang–it was a call from Lisa. Emma gathered herself, wiped her tears, and answered, “Hey, Lisa! Have you missed me?“!
“Emma! You’re back?” Lisa sounded surprised.
“Of course! I just got home. What’s up? Why does your voice sound choked? Were you bullied? Was it Luc?” Lisa’s caring words warmed Emma’s heart.
Clearing her throat, Emma forced a laugh, “I caught a cold these past few days, just getting over it. No one bullied me.” And no one will bully me anymore!@
“There are still people in the world who care about you.”
“If Luc bullied you, you can’t keep it to yourself. Just call me, and I, as your big sister, will come right away to have your back!”
“No way! How could you bear to come back?” Emma thought about Lisa’s demeanor, fearing what trouble might stir if things turned sour, and quickly changed the subject.!! Lisa laughed, “What are you saying? My best friend is here, my studio is here–where else could I go?”
“Hahaha… You were supposed to be off finding your first love on some island, weren’t you? I thought I’d be getting your wedding invitation soon!” Emma always found herself laughing when chatting with Lisa.
“You and your relentless sarcasm!” The two always teased each other, never getting angry or falling out.
“When will you come over? I brought you a gift from the island. Guess what it is?”
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“What else could it be? If it’s not clothes, it’s a handbag. What kind of creative gift could you possibly give?“{
“You rascal! I want to punch you! When are you free?”
“Next week. I have to go back to my parents‘ house this weekend.”
“Speaking of which, is Luc’s grandma truly nice to you? Why does it feel like an interrogation every weekend?”
Emma’s heart fluttered slightly. “No problem, she’s just concerned about her grandson. After all, he’s the only one to carry on the family name; she has to be apprehensive, right?”
Lisa frowned, “You’re too kind–hearted. Haven’t you heard the saying, ‘Kind people are often taken advantage of? My friend, toughen up! You’re not their hired help. If they don’t treat you right, tell me. Worst–case scenario, we can go on our own. But never allow yourself to be mistreated!”
Lisa always had a refreshing perspective. If Emma had Lisa’s clear–headedness, how could she possibly be smothered by Luc’s indifference?
Thankfully, it’s not too late for everything!
