Close to the Heart

1. On her first day working in Renhua Hospital’s cardiothoracic department, Chi Yuqin set her sights on Tang Zhen. She called her name during rounds, meetings, and even case reviews—Tang Zhen was so frustrated she almost resigned. Chi Yuqin wore a cold expression for everyone, but her gaze when looking at Tang Zhen was unsettlingly ambiguous. One was a prodigy at the top of the pyramid, while the other was an untainted flower from humble beginnings—they were worlds apart. Tang Zhen felt prickling discomfort under her scrutiny. Until that night—Chi Yuqin seized her drunken chance and kept Tang Zhen from leaving. Her grip tightened around Tang Zhen’s delicate wrist, shedding daytime restraint for playful temptation, her damp breath brushing Tang Zhen’s ear— *"Stay? Want to?"* Tang Zhen’s face burned crimson. Chi Yuqin leaned into her shoulder— *"These are two separate things."* 2. Their unequal relationship lasted three years. To Tang Zhen, it was her own chaotic battlefield—in this sacrificial happiness, pride demanded she reclaim her life. So she resolutely left Chi Yuqin. Until one evening, Chi Yuqin appeared on Tang Zhen’s usual route home, cutting off any escape. Tang Zhen struggled futilely, but Chi Yuqin’s lowered stance shattered her defenses. *"You said it yourself—leave, and never come back."* Yet the same person, the same solemn face framed eyes darker and deeper than ever before, reflecting unprecedented sincerity— *"I did. So this time, I’m the one coming for you."* —*I embraced her, offering both my maturity and my innocence.* April 28, 2024