Chapter 145

"How could you do that, Sebastian?" Evelyn's voice cut through the line, sharp with irritation the moment the call connected.

On the other end, Sebastian let out an uneasy laugh, his discomfort palpable. "Evelyn, I know I messed up. I broke my word. But what choice did I have? You saw how things were—I had to agree!"

Evelyn exhaled sharply, her tone laced with frustration. "Fine, you agreed. But why in the world did you have to suggest promoting me to attending physician?"

Sebastian’s voice turned firm. "What was I supposed to do? Let them trample all over us without putting up a fight?" His conviction was unwavering, as if his decision had been the only logical one. "If we're making this interesting, there needs to be stakes. Rewards, consequences—basic rules of engagement."

Evelyn arched a brow. "You could’ve just offered up your bonus," she countered coolly.

Sebastian hesitated, then chuckled awkwardly. "Uh… That didn’t exactly occur to me at the time."

"Oh, really?" Her voice dripped with skepticism.

"I swear, it's the truth!" he insisted. "Look, the bet’s been made, and the wheels are already in motion. Complaining now won’t change anything."

After a brief pause, he added, "Tell you what—to make up for this mess, I owe you a favor. Fair enough?"

Reluctantly, Evelyn realized there was no point dwelling on it further. She exhaled, resigning herself to the situation.

Sebastian’s tone shifted, turning serious. "The director received an anonymous complaint today, accusing me of favoritism. He’s demanding I address it properly. I know Dominic’s behind this, and I won’t let him walk away unscathed. He’s getting dragged into this mess."

Evelyn’s interest piqued. An anonymous complaint? No wonder Sebastian was so worked up.

"Now, this isn’t just about you and Lila anymore—it involves Dominic and me too," he continued. "When the time comes, don’t hold back."

"Understood. Don’t worry," Evelyn replied, her voice steady and assured. Mercy was the last thing on her mind when it came to Lila.

Sebastian’s tone softened slightly. "I have no doubts about your skills with a type-B aortic dissection. But the virtual surgery system might be new to you. You should practice."

"No need," Evelyn said smoothly. "I’ve used the virtual surgery system plenty of times before."

Sebastian paused, realization dawning. Of course—how could he forget who Evelyn’s mentor was? For someone like her, the system was child’s play.

"Alright then. That eases my mind," he said, relieved.

After exchanging a few more words, Evelyn ended the call and returned to her office.

News of the upcoming competition between Evelyn and Lila using the virtual surgery system spread like wildfire through the hospital. Speculation ran rampant, with most placing their bets on Lila. After all, she had been under Dominic’s expert guidance for years, while Evelyn—well, to most, she was just a pretty face with no real substance. Only a select few believed Evelyn stood a chance.

But Evelyn paid no mind to the whispers. She carried on with her work, unbothered by the storm brewing around her.