Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

Alexa had spent the day watching Dr. Ray perform surgery, and she was still buzzing with excitement. She couldn't wait to get back and jot down her notes. When Libby asked her something, Alexa responded offhandedly, "What do you need?"

"Cousin, how was your first day at the lab?" Libby asked, her curiosity piqued.

"It was incredible! I got lucky and saw Dr. Ray operate up close on my first day!" Alexa's eyes sparkled. "Watching that surgery taught me more than a year of studying ever could." Libby felt a pang of jealousy, especially thinking about Flora, who had also seen the surgery. "Did you see Flora there today?" she asked, her tone tinged with bitterness.

"Flora? You know her?" Alexa gave her a sideways glance. "Dr. Ray isn't a fan of hers. He had everyone in the lab watch the surgery, except Flora."

"I found out later Flora's just a freshman and probably got into the lab through connections. No one likes her; they think she's a burden," Alexa added with a smug tone. Who cares how pretty she is? Without skills, no one respects you.

Libby hadn't realized Flora was having such a rough time in the lab. She felt a mix of satisfaction and schadenfreude.

The next day, Flora rushed to the lab.

Ray's performance yesterday was

Ray would have the steadiness to pull that off. I

people huddled, chatting about the previous day's amazing surgery. They quieted down as Flora walked in, aware she hadn't

couldn't blame anyone. She got in through

you proofread

with a medical mask, her skin dark and forehead shiny. "Sorry, I'm

freshman and disliked, she felt free to boss her around. Even though they were both newcomers, Alexa felt she

at Alexa without a word.

uneasy under Flora's gaze but quickly

want to do it? That's what you get

it? Let me see," Shawn suddenly appeared, taking

"Shawn...?"