NIKOLAI.
It’s been three days since Alexei’s office, and I haven’t seen him once.
Not that I’m looking.
I’m definitely not looking.
Tuesday morning, I’m leading rounds with my team when I spot him—standing at the nurses’ station with Dr. Volgin, our Chief of Surgery. Both watching as I approach.
Perfect.
“Dr. Volkov,” Volgin calls out. “A moment?”
I hand my tablet to my resident and walk over. “Chief.”
“I was just telling Dr. Morozov about your transplant patient. Remarkable recovery time.”
“Thank you, sir.”
Alexei leans against the desk, arms crossed. “Remarkable. Though I’d argue luck played a significant role.”
“Luck?” I smile. “Is that what we’re calling skill now?”
Volgin’s eyebrows rise. “Gentlemen.”
“Apologies, Chief,” Alexei says smoothly. “Professional disagreement. Y
