Chapter 7 - An Emergency Call
Naomi’s clinical instincts kicked in instantly. She answered on the second ring, pressing the phone to her ear.
“Naomi Carter speaking.”
“Naomi, thank God you picked up,” came the urgent voice of Dr. Martinez, the chief pediatric surgeon. “I know you just clocked out four hours ago, but we have a code red situation. A multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 90 just brought in three critically injured pediatric patients. Our trauma floor is completely overwhelmed, and little Leo—the boy you sat with this morning—has developed sudden post-surgical complications. He won't let anyone touch him. He's panicking and screaming for you.”
Naomi didn't hesitate for a single second. The luxury boutique, the three-hundred-thousand-dollar gown, the billionaire fiancé—all of it faded into the background before the call of duty.
“I’m on my way, Dr. Martinez. Ten minutes.”
She hung up and looked at Julian. “Julian, I have to go. The hospital needs me.”
Julian didn't question her. He didn't ask her to rest, nor did he suggest sending another nurse. He loved her precisely because she put human lives above everything else.
“Arthur!” Julian called out immediately. “Bring the car to the front entrance right now. Tell the driver to prepare for high-speed transit with emergency hazard lights.”
Tessa quickly helped Naomi step out of the gown, carefully hanging it inside the protective garment bag, while Naomi swiftly slipped back into her worn jeans, navy sweatshirt, and white sneakers. She tied her hair back into a functional ponytail, grabbed her canvas purse, and rushed toward the entrance.
As they emerged onto the sidewalk of Oak Street, a small crowd had gathered outside Bellamy Bridal. Several local boutique owners and shoppers were still buzzing about Vanessa Cole’s abrupt and humiliating dismissal. But Naomi didn't spare them a second glance.
She leaped into the back of Julian’s sleek black SUV, Julian sliding in right beside her.
“Lakeshore Children’s Hospital, emergency entrance,” Julian ordered the driver. “Fast.”
The powerful vehicle surged into traffic, weaving through the busy Chicago streets with precision. Inside the vehicle, Naomi closed her eyes, mentally reviewing pediatric resuscitation protocols and surgical emergency procedures. Julian took her hand, holding it firmly between both of his, offering silent, unwavering strength.
“You’re an extraordinary woman, Naomi,” Julian said softly.
May you like
“I’m just doing my job,” she whispered.
“No,” Julian replied, looking at her with boundless admiration. “You’re saving the world, one child at a time.”
