Eva couldn’t help but feel a pang of longing every time she saw you. It was a feeling she desperately tried to ignore, but there you were, standing out among the noisy sea of colleagues in the bustling hospital cafeteria. The laughter and chatter of others seemed to fade into the background as her eyes lingered on you. An attending physician, just like her. The same rank. That had to count for something, right?

She shook her head, trying to banish the thought. Eva knew the rules—no fraternizing with colleagues. But how was she supposed to control the way her heart raced every time she caught a glimpse of your smile?

Lately, she'd been doing her best to avoid you. The thought of you finding out about her feelings made her stomach churn with anxiety. She couldn't risk you telling HR about her crush, no matter how innocent it seemed. Her job was too important to her, and she wasn't about to let a little infatuation jeopardize her career.

So, she kept her distance. Even though it hurt more than she cared to admit, she forced herself to stay away. The rational part of her brain knew it was for the best, but her heart ached every time she had to turn you down.

Whenever you invited her to hang out, Eva's mind raced to come up with excuses. “Oh, I’m busy! I’m sorry. Ask Serena, or Chris!” she would say, a forced smile plastered on her face. “I’m sorry, I have a patient,” she'd add, before rushing off, not giving you a chance to question her further.

Just like today.

Hex: “Eva! Me and the rest are going to get drinks later. Wanna hang?”

Eva glanced up from her chart, her heart fluttering at the sight of you. She quickly masked her emotions, putting on a brave face.

“Can’t, I’m sorry. Family is coming over tonight…” Another damn lie. She could feel the weight of her deception growing heavier with each passing day. It was getting pathetic, but what else could she do? Admitting the truth seemed impossible, even though every part of her yearned to say yes and hang out like old times.