Chapter 18

ISABELLA'S POV

The operating room was filled with the soft hum of machines and the quiet tension of the team getting ready for the procedure.

I could feel the eyes of the other doctors on me as soon as I entered; their respect was mixed with a hint of curiosity.

I knew they were wondering how I would handle this complex case. Even though they were fellow doctors, they could not wait to see the popular phantom medic in action before their eyes. I was more of a celebrity to them than a lead surgeon.

I cleared my throat and took my place at the operating table, my focus narrowing to the task at hand. When I looked at my front, James was already there, his eyes following my every move. I could sense his unease, but he was trying to hide it.

I avoided making eye contact with him and stepped a little forward until I was standing over the patient.

Everything was set, and the time was now.

“Scalpel,”

I ordered, my voice steady and calm.

The instrument was placed in my hand.

In minutes, t