Chapter 1467

“Okay.”

With that, Belinda rose and left Caiden’s office.

As she neared the Cardiac Surgery Department, she overheard a group of doctors discussing the morning’s meeting.

“I’m telling you, Belinda’s just showing off! She dared talk about an aortic valve replacement? Please, does she really think she’s capable of that?”

“Exactly. She’s lost her mind.”

“Hold on, don’t be so quick to judge. Dr. Wright had a point. Valve replacement means lifelong meds and two surgeries; that’s rough on the patient. Her plan aims for a one-and-done solution.”

“But have you thought about the risks? We’re talking aortic valve replacement here!”

“Enough. Mrs. Dury has already picked Dr. Ortiz. Let’s drop the matter.”

The discussion fizzled out, and only then did Belinda enter the office.

The room fell silent as the doctors noticed her. No one spoke.

Belinda walked to her desk and resumed her work.

At lunch, Lucas arrived at the hospital to take Belinda out for lunch.

The moment Belinda slid into the car, he asked, his voice tinged with concern, “How did it go?”

Belinda knew Lucas was asking about Barbara’s attending physician. She gave a small pout, shaking her head. “Mrs. Dury picked Turner.”

“She didn’t choose you?” Lucas’ brow creased slightly. “Why?”

Belinda exhaled heavily. “Because my surgical plan carries more risk. The procedure I suggested is the toughest in the Cardiac Surgery Department. Mrs. Dury doesn’t think I’m up to it, and I can’t really fault her for that.”

Lucas looked at her, his voice deep and rough. “But you’re not giving up, are you?”

“No,” Belinda said, shaking her head firmly. “I want to lead Barbara’s surgery, not because I want to prove anything to Dr. Ortiz, but because I truly believe my plan is the best for her condition. Her situation’s deteriorating fast; she can’t afford to wait. The surgery needs to happen as soon as possible.”

Lucas reached over, ruffling her hair gently. “I know you’re doing this for the right reasons,” he said softly.

After a brief pause, he added, “Do you want me to talk to Nalani?”

“No,” Belinda replied, shaking her head to dismiss the idea.

Getting Lucas involved would only complicate things.

“I’ve already asked Mr. Rodgers to speak with her again,” Belinda said, meeting Lucas’ gaze. “You don’t need to step in. I’ve got this.”

Lucas considered her words for a moment before nodding. “Alright.”

Belinda flashed a smile. “Come on, let’s go get some food. I’m starving.”

“Okay,” Lucas said, starting the car.

That afternoon, Caiden stopped by Barbara’s hospital room.

Nalani, unsurprised to see him, rose from the sofa.

“Let’s step outside to talk,” she said.