Chapter 173
Luna White pushed open the door and froze in place.
The living room gleamed with brand-new hardwood furniture, imported fruits arranged on the coffee table. Further inside, the kitchen was fully equipped with a refrigerator and washing machine. Even a state-of-the-art color television sat in the bedroom.
"This..." Her fingers trembled slightly as they brushed the television's smooth surface.
The meaningful look from HR Director Li Ran suddenly made sense. How could a junior doctor like her qualify for such luxurious accommodations?
Ethan White dropped their luggage with a loud thud.
"Luna, this place..." His voice cracked as he surveyed the room, "It's better than our regiment commander's quarters."
Luna took a deep breath, forcing composure. "Don't overthink it, brother. The hospital director must have his reasons."
She pretended nonchalance while opening the refrigerator—packed with fresh ingredients.
"Look, they even stocked groceries. When Maya visits, we can—"
Ethan grabbed her wrist. "Luna, are you really giving up university?"
She pulled away, busying herself with unpacking. "You know my medical skills. I'll get my degree in a couple years."
Her back turned to Ethan, fingers clutching her clothes so tightly her knuckles whitened.
With a sigh, Ethan began making her bed. Both silently agreed to drop the subject.
As dusk fell, Ethan's stomach growled loudly.
"Brother!" Luna whirled around. "You haven't eaten all day?"
He scratched his head sheepishly. "It's fine, I—"
"Let's eat out!" She dragged him out before he could protest.
Steam rose from the small noodle shop behind the hospital.
"Two sizzling woks with noodles, four poached eggs!" Luna slapped the table, winking at Ethan. "My treat tonight."
Before Ethan could refuse, the owner brought steamed buns. Luna pushed the plate toward him. "Eat!"
The thin-skinned buns burst with filling. Ethan took one bite before his eyes reddened.
"What's wrong?" Luna asked anxiously.
"Nothing." He wiped his face. "Just...remembering when you couldn't even afford plain steamed buns as a child..."
Luna's nose stung. She ducked her head to slurp noodles.
They devoured five bowls of noodles and four buns until stuffed.
Back at the dorm, they argued over who would take the bed.
"I'm your elder brother!" Ethan insisted.
"And I'm the host here!" Luna planted her hands on her hips.
Ethan finally surrendered, reluctantly lying on the large bed.
Late at night, Luna curled on the sofa hearing muffled sobs through the wall. She bit the quilt corner, tears soaking her pillow.
Before dawn, Ethan slipped away. On the coffee table lay a note:
"Take care, Luna. Your brother will always support you."
The handwriting blurred in spots, as if water had smudged the ink.