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.

performance yesterday was

only Dr. Ray would have the steadiness to pull

previous day's amazing surgery. They quieted down as Flora walked

knew she couldn't blame anyone. She got in through the back door and wasn't exactly

proofread this for

voice chimed in from above. Looking up, she saw a woman with a medical mask, her skin dark and forehead shiny. "Sorry, I'm swamped.

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

Alexa without

quickly scoffed. Who does she think she is, refusing to

you don't want to do it? That's what you get

me see,"

"Shawn...?"