Chapter 101: Formalities
Mara strode purposefully into the hospital lobby, her heels clicking against the pristine white tiles as Stefan walked beside her. The scent of antiseptic and faint traces of coffee from the nearby vending machine filled the air. Despite the sterile environment, a warm energy buzzed around the reception desk, where Nurse Joanne sat, radiating cheerfulness like the morning sun.
"Good morning, Dr. Shepherd!" she chirped, her eyes lighting up at the sight of him.
Stefan, known to nearly everyone in the hospital as the "handsome doctor," barely glanced up from his thoughts. He offered her a distracted smile, his mind already ahead of him, searching for answers before he even reached his destination.
"Hey, Joanne. What room is Vera Knight in? The patient was admitted last evening?" His voice was calm but urgent. He hadn’t been on shift when Vera was brought in, but something about her case had lingered in his mind since he first read the report.
Joanne, ever the smitten admirer, let out a small giggle as she turned to check her monitor. Maybe it was excitement that he remembered her name, or perhaps just the thrill of having his attention, even if momentary.
"Room 78, doctor," she replied, flashing another eager smile.
Stefan was already turning on his heel, Mara close behind, barely acknowledging Joanne’s response. "Thank you, Joanne," he called over his shoulder, motioning for Mara to follow. But before they could disappear down the corridor, Joanne’s voice stopped them in their tracks.
"Hmm... handsome doctor sorry I mean Doctor Shepherd—"
Stefan turned back, brows knitting together. Mara exhaled sharply, her patience thinning. The nurse’s dreamy expression was beginning to grate at her nerves.
"What is it, Joanne?" His voice was firmer now, pressing for efficiency.
Joanne hesitated, biting her lip, her earlier cheer dimming slightly. "She’s no longer here."