chapter 7: complexity of the heart

Liang Chenxiu's arrivals at the hospital had become anticipated events, his presence rippling through the halls like a cold wind - sharp yet undeniably magnetic. He maintained a deliberate distance from everyone, his interactions limited to succinct exchanges with the medical team and, on most occasion, Dr. Mina Han.

Though their conversations remained strictly professional, Mina couldn't help but notice the subtle shift in Chenxiu's demeanor when he addressed her. The icy veneer would soften ever so slightly, allowing glimpses of the man underneath the forbidding facade. In those fleeting instants, his intense gaze seemed to bore into her, as if committing every detail to memory.

One evening after completing rounds, Mina found Chenxiu lingering outside the patient's room, his usual stoic mask slipping momentarily at her approach.

"Dr. Han," that rich, velvet baritone caressed her name. "How is he faring?"

"Responding well to the immunosuppressants," Mina replied crisply, consulting her notes. "No rejection episodes noted and renal functions are stable. I'm optimistic about his prospects."

A muscle twitched almost imperceptibly in Chenxiu's taut jaw, the only betrayal of his relief. "Your commitment is admirable, truly."

A faint crease appeared between Mina's brows. "I'm just doing my job, Mr. Liang."

"Chenxiu," he countered, holding her gaze intently. "I asked you to use my name, did I not?"

Heat blossomed in Mina's cheeks at the understated reprimand. "My apologies...Chenxiu. Your praise means a great deal coming from someone of your stature."

He inclined his head a fraction, a subtle acknowledgment of respect. "Don't mind my frequent visits. I simply want to ensure his full recovery is achieved." His dark eyes roved over her features as if mapping every plane and curve.

Clearing her throat, Mina managed an equanimous tone. "Of course. Having caring people involved only aids the healing process."

For a suspended moment, the air between them grew charged, laden with unspoken undercurrents neither seemed willing to address. Then Chenxiu gave a sharp nod and turned away, the shutters coming down once more over his expression.

Mina watched his retreating back, her mind awhirl. What inscrutable depths did this enigmatic man harbor beneath that icy exterior? Despite her best intentions, she found herself irresistibly intrigued, craving to discover and understand the complex layers comprising Liang Chenxiu.

But such puzzlings would have to wait. Shoving aside the distracting thoughts, Mina refocused on her duties. The patient's well-being took priority over unraveling the mysteries of the human heart...for now.