CHAPTER 164: A GATHERING FILLED WITH UNDERCURRENTS

Han Miao’s craniotomy went very smoothly. Although Xiao Zhaoqiu didn’t have time, the lead surgeon was Wang Yuanshan, the chief physician and deputy director of neurosurgery.

In neurosurgery, it honestly wasn’t a very complicated procedure. The location was clearly marked, and there was very little bleeding. Even if Zhang Xiao had performed the surgery, it would have been straightforward.

"The operation was a success, vital signs are stable, and there’s no need for her to go to the ICU," Wang Yuanshan announced as he emerged from the operating room.

Liu Banxia gave a thumbs-up. "Director Wang, you’re truly incredible! You finished the whole thing in just one hour and thirty-seven minutes."

"What good does your praise do me? I can’t pull you over to neurosurgery. But you guys did well too. Even though the bleeding wasn’t extensive, that section of the blood vessel was quite fragile. It really could have led to major bleeding," Wang Yuanshan said.

"Considering the patient’s young age, we haven’t let her wake up too soon. Let her rest a bit more. Zhang Xiao will help conduct some tests when she wakes up. Under normal circumstances, she shouldn’t have sustained any brain damage, nor should it impact her future life."

"Thank you, Director Wang. Let’s transfer her to our emergency ward first, to reduce some of the burden here," Liu Banxia said with a smile.

"You... no wonder Old Zhou always says you’re a mischievous one," Wang Yuanshan remarked.

"We also need to give our emergency department nurses more experience. We’re gearing up for a big push soon, so let’s consider this advance training," Liu Banxia said with a smile.

This was something that had to be considered. The number of patients admitted recently hadn’t been small; it was just that many were sent to the ICU. The previous case with Qiaoqiao didn’t require the ICU, but she had to be admitted to the isolation ward.

"You can all relax now," Liu Banxia said. "When she wakes up, talk to her a lot and don’t let her go back to sleep. Don’t give her water either, to prevent choking. Our nurses will check on her every hour, so there’s no need to worry about her care."

"Dr. Liu, we’re truly grateful for everything you’ve done," Teacher Song said.

"Don’t thank me. If you want to thank someone, thank this young lady. She’s more effective here than I am," Liu Banxia teased, looking at Xiao Yue.

This made Xiao Yue feel a little embarrassed. She thought she might have misunderstood Liu Banxia before. At home, she would hear Xu Dan and her father talk about Liu Banxia, and she got the impression that he was somewhat frustrating. But after spending more time with him today, although he was indeed a bit annoying, he was also truly competent. For instance, many doctors came for a consultation today, yet he was the one who made the final decision. And when they were waiting outside the operating room, all the doctors and nurses passing by greeted him.

"Anyway, our emergency ward is rather empty. If you get tired, you can rest on an empty bed. I’ll come get you when I get off work," Liu Banxia suggested.

"Dr. Liu, I’ll have my dad send a car to pick us up then. Otherwise, there won’t be enough seats for so many people," Qiu Mingyuan offered.

"Alright, I won’t be polite then," Liu Banxia replied with a smile, nodding.

「A little over an hour later」

Han Miao’s father arrived. Liu Banxia and Teacher Song patiently explained the situation to him and also informed him about the costs.

This was a serious matter, not the hospital being greedy. Clarifying everything could reduce unnecessary conflicts. Moreover, for the Han family, who had medical and commercial insurance, the treatment costs weren’t an issue.

"Boss, you’ll have to work hard tonight," Liu Banxia said warmly when Shi Lei arrived at the hospital.

"You... you just love to pick on me. You better come back early tomorrow; I don’t want to cover for you for free," Shi Lei replied.

"Don’t worry, I’ll bring you something delicious tomorrow," Liu Banxia promised cheerfully.

Shi Lei gave him a helpless look, wondering when this guy would actually show up to relieve him tomorrow; it felt like it was up to fate.

"Eh? Where’s Qing Kewa?" Liu Banxia looked around.

"She’s doing her makeup. She said it’s her first time going out to have fun, so she wants to dress up nicely," Liang Xiaolin explained with a hint of exasperation.

"Why don’t you go spruce yourself up a bit too? Just don’t go overboard," Liu Banxia casually suggested.

Liang Xiaolin was quite irritated. If they weren’t in the hospital, she would have definitely given him a piece of her mind.

The idea of girls wearing makeup didn’t quite make sense to Liu Banxia. In his view, Qing Kewa had merely changed into a dress when she came out; he hadn’t noticed any makeup. Yet, everyone was complimenting her on her beauty.

Wang Mingxing’s home was a little far from the Second Affiliated Hospital; the drive took nearly an hour. His restaurant also had a distinctive name: Mingxing Seafood Barbecue.

It was now past seven in the evening, and the place already had quite a few diners. They were all seated at small outdoor tables, creating a genuinely nice atmosphere.

"Dr. Liu, we’ve been eagerly awaiting your arrival!" Wang Dashan said enthusiastically as he walked out.

"Dr. Liu, HAHA... and Mingyuan, Xiao Yue too!" Wang Mingxing, full of energy, came out with him.

"Why aren’t you resting at home?" Liu Banxia asked.

"Dr. Liu, being cooped up at home is stifling. I’d rather be here watching the bustle. Don’t worry, I’m doing great now. You all eat; I’ll be happy just to sit with you."

Liu Banxia ruffled his hair. He’s a sensible kid.

"Oh, is this a foreign friend?" At that moment, Qing Kewa stepped out of the car.

"Brother Old Wang, that admiration for all things foreign isn’t good. Bring on your specialties! Three more people are coming later," Liu Banxia joked.

Qing Kewa, having just gotten out of the car, found her eyes couldn’t take it all in. People were sitting around small tables, eating barbecue and drinking, making her unconsciously lick her lips.

"Dr. Liu, you’re quite the character," Wang Mingxing whispered as they walked towards a table.

"What are you thinking, young man? Qiu Mingyuan’s uric acid is high; he can keep you company later," Liu Banxia said.

"Dr. Liu, is it okay if I have just a few bites? I’ve even given up soft drinks now," Qiu Mingyuan said with a pained expression.

"You definitely know better than I do what you can and can’t eat now. Decide for yourself. After all, you’ll be the one suffering in the future, not me," Liu Banxia said irresponsibly.

Although Liu Banxia had delegated the decision, Qiu Mingyuan looked even more troubled. It would have been so much better if Dr. Liu had just told him he could eat a little or that he absolutely couldn’t. Now, he had to choose—a choice between craving and pain.

"Sigh... Mingxing, I guess I can only have some chicken skewers. And bring two bottles of mineral water; I’ll just fill up on water," Qiu Mingyuan sighed.

Watching his predicament amused Liu Banxia greatly. But there was no helping it; gout was just that kind of disease. Qiu Mingyuan was still in an acute phase, so his uric acid had to be strictly controlled.

The others didn’t have so many restrictions; they could eat anything and didn’t really need to order specific dishes.

Just as they were enjoying some cold appetizers, Liu Banxia’s phone rang. It was Qiaoqiao.

"Where are you?" Liu Banxia asked after answering.

"We’re on North Horse Road. Left or right?" Qiaoqiao asked.

"Left, there’s a place called Mingxing Barbecue. It’s best to park outside; there’s no space inside now. Also..."

Liu Banxia was halfway through his sentence when Qiaoqiao hung up.

In less than five minutes, Qiaoqiao’s trio descended upon them. No, to be precise, it was a quartet, including Tang Dou. While everyone’s attention was on Qiaoqiao, Wang Xiaoyan, and Jiaojiao, Liu Banxia was more concerned about Tang Dou.

Qiaoqiao was too reckless, Liu Banxia thought. Tang Dou had a broken leg; taking her out for a walk like this, over such a long distance, could make her fracture worse.

However, as they drew closer, Liu Banxia couldn’t help but be amused. Tang Dou hadn’t come on her own four paws; there was a small wheel under her injured leg.

It looked like it had been taken from a roller skate. Although it probably wasn’t as comfortable as using her own paws, it at least allowed Tang Dou to move around a bit. Seeing Liu Banxia, Tang Dou’s face lit up, and she skated over, diving straight into his arms. It was a good thing Liu Banxia was prepared, or he would have definitely been knocked over.

"Wow, Dr. Liu, you sure have a lot of admirers! The three young ladies are so beautiful," Qiu Mingyuan couldn’t help but exclaim as Qiaoqiao and her friends approached.

It was true; the three young women had clearly dressed up specially today. They looked youthful and beautiful, with a hint of allure.

Liang Xiaolin frowned slightly. She’d been careless; she really should have spruced herself up more. Compared to those three and Qing Kewa, who were all dolled up, she felt like a country bumpkin. It wasn’t that she had a strong sense of competition; it was just instinct.

Everyone was young, and although some had just met, they became acquainted very quickly. Moreover, after proper introductions, it turned out there were three of Liu Banxia’s patients at the table, which instantly brought everyone much closer.

"Tang Dou, you ungrateful little thing! I feed you and give you drinks every day, so why are you squatting next to him?" Qiaoqiao glared at Tang Dou.

Tang Dou looked at Qiaoqiao, then at Liu Banxia. Though reluctant, she lowered her head and obediently walked to Qiaoqiao’s side.

"The way you are, Tang Dou must suffer so much injustice at home," Liu Banxia said helplessly.

"Alright everyone, we’re just here for a casual get-together. Those who are drinking don’t drive, and those who are driving don’t drink. I have work tomorrow, so I can’t be late. The rest of you, do as you please. Qiaoqiao will handle the bill. If anyone wants to try yoga, find Yanzi."

"What kind of introductions are these?" Wang Xiaoyan said, thoroughly amused.

"Exactly, he’s always spouting nonsense," Qiaoqiao also glared at him.

Today’s gathering was larger than they had expected. They had thought it would just be Liu Banxia. Who knew he would bring two female companions, and such high-caliber ones at that. Qing Kewa, wearing a dress and light makeup, was so stunning that even they felt a sense of amazement looking at her. And the key thing? Qing Kewa was sitting quietly beside Liu Banxia, not saying much, looking very much like a demure young wife.

On the surface, everyone at the table seemed to be having a wonderful time, chatting happily while waiting for the barbecue skewers. But in reality? Undercurrents were surging. They all had competitive personalities; even Liang Xiaolin, who usually wasn’t very concerned, was having thoughts, let alone the others.

Only Liu Banxia was genuinely carefree. Occasionally, he would shoot a playful glance at Tang Dou, and even youngsters like Qiu Mingyuan and the others could see that the way they kept looking at each other was a little odd.