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away. "No!" I ran faster, my bag slapping against my hip. "Wait!" The driver glanced back once. Then the doors shut. The bus vanished down the street, leaving behind a gust of wind and a cloud of hopelessness. I stood there, panting, sweat forming at the back of my neck. The world moved around me. Cars, bikes, birds. People checking their phones. And me? Just a healer with no ride, no pride, and a heart that wouldn't stop burning. " I guess I have to walk to work today, the next bus in 30mins and I can't wait that long and I don't have money for an expensive ride " ~~~ I finally reached the hospital, my feet aching from the long walk and my heart heavy with thoughts. The tall building loomed over me, its glass windows reflecting the bright morning sun. This place had been my second home for years-the place where I saved lives, where I dreamed of becoming a great healer. But today, it felt like a battlefield. The moment I stepped into the hospital lobby, I felt dozens of eyes on me. Whispers fluttered through the air like restless ghosts. I knew what they were thinking. Everyone here knew about me and Leon. The secret glances we shared, the way we smiled at each other-even if I tried to hide it. And then there was Selene-my best friend. Or, at least, she had been. I glanced around, searching for her, but she wasn't here. My heart twisted painfully. No doubt she was with Leon, planning that perfect wedding, playing the perfect Luna. The thought made bile rise in my throat. At the nurses' station, I nodded to a few colleagues who gave me stiff, polite smiles. Some looked away quickly when our eyes met. Others whispered behind their hands. I felt like an outsider in a place that once felt like home. "Lyra," said Nurse Joseph, a kind woman with a gentle smile. "Good to see you today. We heard you're back on duty. The hospital could use you." I forced a small smile. "Thank you. I'll do my best." As the morning passed, I moved from patient to patient, trying to focus on my work. But it was hard. Every time I saw a group of nurses glance my way, or overheard a whispered conversation cut short as I approached, I felt my stomach twist. "Where's Selene?" I asked one of the younger interns during lunch break. "She's off today," the intern replied, eyes wide with curiosity. "Probably with Leon. They say they're already planning the wedding. Everyone's talking about it." I clenched my fists under the table, struggling to keep calm. Wedding. Planning. While I was fighting to keep my place here. After lunch, I went to check on Mrs. Hammond, an elderly patient who always smiled when she saw me. "Hello, dear," she said weakly. "You look tired." "I am," I admitted. "But I'm here now." She squeezed my hand. "You're strong, Lyra. Don't let others make you doubt yourse