Chapter 6: Mentor

Words : 1169 Updated : Mar 13th, 2025

The patient was quite fortunate; although the lungs were damaged, the bleeding was minimal. Consequently, the esophagectomy was relatively straightforward compared to the complexity of removing a spatula. For the suturing, Walter employed a neat vertical mattress stitch. However, while surgery could save a life, it could not prevent irreversible damage. Outwardly, the patient seemed no different from an average person but would henceforth be missing some parts compared to a normal individual. With the esophagectomy and the stomach being lifted, the patient would eat less and be more prone to gastric content reflux. Walter followed Pablo out of the operating room. "Walter, the emergency department is not only demanding but also complicated. You must be mentally prepared. In fifteen minutes, come to my office. I'll introduce you to your mentor." Pablo's mind raced with numerous plans to cultivate this promising young talent, feeling an instant spark of admiration and a desire to mentor him. Back in his office, Pablo promptly called in Andy Tibbert. Andy, the deputy director of the emergency department, was a few years older than Pablo. Despite his qualifications to hold a higher position, Andy preferred hands-on surgical work over cumbersome administrative tasks, choosing to remain a pure physician in emergency medicine. "Andy, we have an intern that needs your guidance." Andy glared at Pablo. "Don't you know my temper? When have I ever taken on an apprentice?" Pablo handed him the phone containing detailed photos of the sutured wound. "Brayden specifically named you for this. I know your temperament and have tested him for you. His technique is impressive. He just performed a flawless esophagectomy. If you don't take him, I'll do it myself." Andy scrutinized the surgical photos before asking, "Is he the intern capable of performing heart valve surgery?" "That's right. His name is Walter." "Alright, let him follow me for a few days first." At the washbasin, Walter received the soap from Gina. Gina revealed her charming dimples as she smiled. "How does it feel on your first day?" Walter meticulously washed his hands. "Extremely nervous. Even now, I feel my heart pounding, afraid of making a mistake. Gina, did I do anything wrong today?" Walter, skilled in psychology, noticed that Gina was a bit disheartened by his performance today. Gina couldn't help but laugh. "I didn't see you being nervous. On the contrary, you took over my work." Walter feigned innocence, opening his mouth wide. "Ah, what should I do? I was just following Mr. Shayle's instructions." His expression was earnest, with no trace of smugness, only tension and remorse. Gina suddenly felt a twinge of regret, worried that Walter would see her as someone who bullies newcomers. She playfully stuck out her tongue. "Just kidding! I'm not that petty." Walter quickly looked relieved. "When I first saw you, I felt you would be my guide at Tenos Hospital. I'll definitely come to you with my questions, so I hope you won't mind." ***** Following Pablo's instructions, Walter knocked on the director's office door. Pablo invited him in and introduced him to Andy. With his graying hair and sallow skin, Andy stood at about five foot ten, with a deep forehead and nasolabial lines. He appeared to be a seasoned gentleman in his late fifties or early sixties. As Walter observed Andy, Andy also scrutinized Walter from head to toe, joking, "Didn't expect you to be quite handsome. Mr. Shayle, your sister is going to college this year, right? Does she have a boyfriend? Here's a great catch. First dibs!" Only Andy dared to joke with the usually stern Pablo. Pablo waved dismissively at him. "Stop the nonsense. He's all yours." Andy gave Walter a light pat on the shoulder. "Let's go." ***** "Consider yourself lucky. Tenos Hospital is a complex place with many people, but I have some clout. If anyone bullies you, just let me know, and I'll back you up." Walter didn't expect his mentor to look "old" and exude a strong streetwise aura. A smile crept onto his face. "Thanks, Mr. Tibbert. Don't worry, I won't be a bother." Andy seemed to recall something, raising an eyebrow in displeasure. "You look bright, but why do you talk with such an old-fashioned tone? Those who outwardly respect their teachers often stab them in the back! Just call me Andy. Young folks should be lively and daring like a young bull charging ahead."

Chapter 6: Mentor

Comments (0)