Chapter 346

"Luna, what did you just say? You're leaving? Where are you going?" Maya White grabbed her sister's wrist, her fingers trembling slightly.

Ethan and Aaron Jackson immediately perked up, their dishrags frozen mid-wipe.

"Big sis, sit down first." Luna pulled Maya onto the wooden bench. "I've received a transfer order. They're sending me to provide medical support in another region. I have to leave in two days."

She deliberately swallowed the words "epidemic zone." If Maya knew she was heading to a frontline hospital, she'd faint from crying.

"Why would they transfer you now?" Maya's voice cracked. "There are so many doctors at your hospital. Why does it have to be you?"

Her knuckles whitened as she gripped her apron. Though they couldn't meet daily, at least she knew her sister was safe in the city. Now, she wouldn't even know where Luna was.

"Big sis!" Luna leaned closer, whispering in her ear. "This is a chance to distinguish myself. I might even get promoted to Deputy Chief Physician when I return." She blinked, feigning nonchalance.

Maya smacked her arm in frustration. "Who cares about promotions? I just want you safe and settled, married to Andrew with children..." Her voice trailed off, eyes reddening.

"I'm not getting married!" Luna suddenly buried her face in Maya's shoulder, pretending to sulk. "I'm sticking with you forever!"

"Who says you're not?"

A deep male voice came from the doorway. Luna straightened instantly, while Maya gaped in surprise at Ethan White.

"Did you two plan this?" Maya wiped her eyes, her voice still thick. "Perfect timing. I'll have Ryan prepare the filling—we're making dumplings!"

She hurried toward the kitchen, calling over her shoulder, "Ryan! Ethan's here. Chop the filling!"

Ryan's acknowledgment was followed by the sound of the fridge opening and closing.

"You two wait here," Maya peeked out. "I'll call you when the dough's ready."

The moment Maya disappeared, Luna hissed, "Ethan, how did you—"

"Did you think I wouldn't come?" Ethan's face was stormy. "You're reckless!"

Luna pressed a finger to her lips. "Don't let Maya know the details."

"Obviously!" Ethan slammed a fist on the table but caught himself before the noise drew attention.

Seeing her brother's bloodshot eyes, Luna forced a smile. "Relax. Your little sister's tough."

Ethan suddenly gripped her shoulders. "Listen. I've applied for a transfer to the same warzone."

"What?" Luna shot to her feet. "Are you insane?"

"I'm your brother." His gaze was ironclad. "If anyone dies, it'll be me first."

The rolling pin's rhythmic thuds echoed from the kitchen. Luna stamped her foot. "Withdraw your application now!"

But Ethan was already walking away. "Maya, I'll help roll the wrappers."

Watching his retreating figure, Luna dug her nails into her palms. She knew Ethan too well—there was no talking him out of this.