Not Your Doormat Anymore

"You're back, Dr. Ranford. Go wash up. Dinner's ready!"

Despite being born with a heart condition, Kourtney was not delicate at all. She was surprisingly skilled at cooking and keeping the place tidy.

My small apartment had never looked better-clean, organized, and welcoming. Compared to how I used to live, it was like night and day. Honestly, my place before could only be described as bare-bones.

She had cooked four dishes and a soup—all hot, steaming, and filled with mouthwatering aromas that immediately awakened my appetite.

Once I sat down, she took off her apron and joined me across the table. "I'm sorry if it's not to your taste, Dr. Ranford. I didn't know what you liked, so I just made a little of everything. Give them a taste." She looked at me eagerly, waiting for my reaction.

After several surgeries today, I was completely drained and more than a little hungry. I gave a quick nod, picked up my fork and spoon, and started eating.

"How is it?" she asked, watching me intently.

I was too focused on the food to even answer, so I simply gave her a thumbs-up. Her face lit up with the sweetest smile. "I'm glad you like it."

I honestly had not eaten this well in ages. After dinner, I slumped onto the couch. Completely full, I let out a satisfied burp. Meanwhile, Kourtney was already up, clearing the table and wiping it down like it was second nature.

Watching the spotless living room, I could not help but feel grateful. Letting Kourtney stay here was definitely the right call.

"How's work been going?" I asked casually.

She paused for a moment, then smiled. "It's pretty good! Everyone's really talented. I'm learning a lot!"

"You just graduated. It's totally normal for your first job to feel overwhelming. I was the same when I started at the hospital-clueless and overwhelmed. But with time, everything falls into place."

I could tell something was bothering her. Maybe it had been a tough day, so I offered a few encouraging words.

She nodded earnestly. "Thank you, Dr. Ranford. I really appreciate the advice." "Alright, then. Take it easy tonight. I'm going to rest."

The hospital had been hectic lately, and I had not gotten much time to recharge.

My room had not been touched. Kourtney probably had not even stepped inside since she moved in.noveldrama

ет

I collapsed onto the bed. I was completely worn out but still couldn't sleep. My mind kept going back to the cozy dinner, the laughter and the warmth of having someone around.

I glanced around the room again. Somehow, it felt completely disconnected from the rest of the apartment.

Was I just too us

living like this-alone and indifferent?

Still lost in thought, exhaustion finally won. I drifted off to sleep.

...

When I woke up, it was already bright outside. I stretched, got up, and went out of the room.

Kourtney was already in the living room, and she had made breakfast. "Dr. Ranford, I know you're always busy + made some

ve

sandwiches-you can eat them on the go if you're in a rush."

She handed them to me, and I blinked in surprise before nodding. "Thanks."

She really had thought of everything. But still, it felt a little strange to have

someone take care of me like this. I was not used to it.

She flashed a bright smile. "You gave me a place to stay and even helped me get

a job. I can't repay you with money, so I'm doing what I can."

At that, I pulled out my phone and transferred her two thousand dollars.

"You've done a great job decorating the rest of the place. Take this and fix up my room, too. Consider whatever's left as your payment."