A small child was rushed into the hospital on a stretcher, surrounded by a flurry of bodyguards moving with urgency and precision. At the child's side, a tall, stunning woman with flowing hair cascading down her back and long legs encased in black stockings held the little girl's hand tightly, her anxiety palpable.
"Ava, stay with me, please," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "I'll do everything in my power to save you. I'm right here, don't be afraid."
Despite the chaotic scene, many onlookers instantly recognized the woman. She was Olivia Walker, heiress to the influential Walker family and widely regarded as one of Graydon's most beautiful women.
Olivia's reputation in the city's fashion circles was legendary—often described as the epitome of grace and elegance, she had been declared Graydon's most gorgeous lady time and again.
"Please don't worry, Ms. Walker," George Sullivan, the hospital's deputy chief, hurried over to reassure her. "We will do everything in our power to save your sister."
The Walker family's prominence in Graydon was unparalleled. Their influence ensured that every hospital staff member gave the highest level of respect and attention to their presence.
Olivia watched silently as Ava Walker was whisked into the emergency department. Even though tears still glistened on her flawless cheeks, her poise and authoritative presence remained undiminished, radiating an elegance that commanded respect.
"Bring me your best physician immediately, Dr. Sullivan," she demanded firmly. "I don't care what it takes. Ava must survive, and I assure you that a generous reward awaits your team once she is stabilized."
George Sullivan inclined his head solemnly. "We'll assemble our top medical team for the Walker family. I'll personally oversee the operation while our head physician is abroad."
He turned to the assembled medical staff. "I will need our most skilled physician to assist me. This is of the utmost importance."
At these words, several doctors, particularly the men, perked up instantly, their faces lighting with anticipation and excitement. The promise of substantial rewards, combined with the chance to gain the attention of Graydon's most admired bachelorette, was an opportunity few could resist.
Brian, eager to seize the moment, stepped forward immediately. "You can count on me, Ms. Walker," he declared with confidence. "I will personally ensure that Ms. Ava receives the best possible care under my supervision."
Olivia's eyes narrowed slightly. Is this truly the hospital's best physician? she wondered silently. "I insist on only the finest care, Dr. Sullivan. I trust you understand the gravity of this situation."
George's gaze flicked briefly toward the back of the group, where James stood quietly, observing the unfolding scene.
"George, considering the importance of the Walker family, I believe James would be a far better choice than Brian," whispered a senior physician with gray hair, leaning in to advise.
"Let James take the lead here," another respected doctor murmured. "Everyone here knows of his exceptional medical abilities. He's clearly the right choice."
George hesitated, fully aware that James was indeed a far more competent doctor than Brian. Yet Brian was his son, and familial loyalty made it impossible to override that decision openly.
"Dr. Brian is our most knowledgeable physician, Ms. Walker," George said diplomatically, bowing slightly. "I promise you, your sister is in capable hands."
Olivia sighed, realizing arguing further would be pointless. "Very well. I trust both Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Brian to work together and save Ava."
"Rest assured, Ms. Walker," Brian said confidently, offering a reassuring smile. "I will not disappoint you or your sister."
As he strode toward the emergency room, he cast a smug glance at James, silently flaunting the advantages of connections over pure skill. Brian believed James's life would only become more complicated now that Evelyn was no longer there to advocate for him.
"James, why didn't you speak up for yourself?" a senior doctor asked gently, placing a hand on his shoulder. "This could have been an incredible opportunity for you."
Another seasoned physician added, "We've all seen your remarkable talents and your integrity, James. Unfortunately, Brian's familial ties have taken precedence. Don't let it get you down."
James offered a soft, grateful smile. "I appreciate your support. Truly. But regardless of who leads, saving a life is the ultimate reward. The most important outcome is that the patient survives."
The two senior physicians exchanged anxious glances as they departed. They worried that James's refusal to navigate hospital politics might hinder the advancement of his career. In their experience, connections often mattered as much as competence.
From the edge of the crowd, Olivia had been quietly observing James. Unlike the other male doctors vying for attention, he remained calm and reserved, standing slightly apart. Her instincts told her that there was far more to this man than appeared on the surface.
She leaned slightly toward her assistant, Amelia Hayes. "Find out quietly who the top physicians are at Graydon General. Also, determine the identity of that doctor standing at the back."
Amelia quickly returned with the information, her expression a mixture of urgency and frustration. "Ms. Walker, it seems Dr. Sullivan misled us. Brian is not actually the hospital's best doctor. In fact, he isn't even among the top performers."
Olivia's gaze sharpened but her composure remained. "It doesn't matter. What matters is that Ava is safe."
Amelia continued, her voice tinged with excitement. "The doctor you asked about—the one standing quietly at the back—is James Anderson. He is extraordinary. According to the staff, his medical skills surpass even many of the senior physicians with decades more experience."
Olivia's eyes widened. Though she had casually inquired about James, she had not expected someone so young to possess such unparalleled talent. Experience often correlates with skill in medicine, making his abilities all the more remarkable.
Amelia's expression became curious. "There's more to his story, Ms. Walker."
Olivia arched an eyebrow, intrigued. "Tell me everything."
Amelia nodded eagerly. "Do you recall the beautiful managing director of Johnsons Company? She is admired by many, just as you are, but her beauty is said to be second only to yours. Rumor has it that she was romantically involved with Dr. Anderson. Can you guess who he is?"
Olivia's eyes widened in understanding. "You're suggesting it's Dr. Anderson?"
Amelia confirmed with a nod. "Exactly. However, it seems misfortune struck him—Evelyn recently broke up with him and is now engaged to William Harrison."
Olivia shook her head slightly, a mixture of sympathy and admiration crossing her face. "He's exceptionally talented and remarkably young. Had he devoted himself solely to his career, he could have been even more impressive. It's unfortunate that he made such a poor choice in prioritizing love over work."
The doors of the emergency room suddenly burst open, cutting their conversation short. Two nurses emerged, their faces pale with alarm.
"There's an urgent situation! The patient's vital signs are dropping rapidly. She's barely breathing!"