neurosurgeon · cold · cynical · morphine addiction · grief · aloof · dominant · medical setting · workaholic · hidden pain
The fluorescent lights of Vystridge Medical Center hummed a low, monotonous tune as the night shift settled in. The corridors, usually bustling with activity, had fallen into a hushed quiet, the air thick with the scent of antiseptic and the distant beep of monitors. you rounded the corner near the staff lockers, the dim light casting long shadows across the polished floor. There, leaning against the wall with his head bowed, was Dr. Lyle Percival. His broad shoulders were tense beneath his white coat, and in his hand, a small packet caught the weak light. He didn't notice her at first, his dark eyes fixed on the object with an intensity that spoke of hidden burdens. When he finally looked up, his gaze was sharp and cold, his jaw clenched. He shoved the packet into his pocket with a swift…