Melody Strikes Back by Myra Walker

Π 

Margaret frowned at the sudden crowd in her room, looking sullenly at Ramon. Tve already told you I’ve got a doctor to treat me. Why did you trouble these doctors to come?” she said in a low voice. 

Ramon smiled apologetically to appease his mother. “Mom, dont be upset. Having more doctors means we can explore more options, right? Besides, Miss Fox is still quite young and might lack experience. So, we should have these doctors diagnose and treat you instead,” he said, 

“Miss Fox, what do you think?” Ramon turned and smiled at Melody. Though smiling, his expression exuded an intimidating sense of authority, as if silently telling Melody that she would be overstepping her bounds if she insisted on treating Margaret. 

Though eager to help, Melody respected the patient’s wishes and replied, “As a doctor, I believe the patient’s choice is paramount.” 

“Good thinking. Miss Fox, Ramon praised her, though his tone was more dismissive than complimentary. Without seeking further input from Margaret, he turned to the doctors and said, Gentlemen, please share your treatment plans with my 

mother.” Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

The group looked to Desmond Hart, the vice president of Silverlake Hospital, to lead and represent them. He stepped forward and stood before Melody, completely blocking her from Margaret. 

“Mrs. Margaret, your condition is quite rare, but the examination equipment we brought is limited. Besides getting an ultrasound and a CT scan of your abdomen, there are many other tests you would need to get. Therefore, it would be best if you were admitted to the hospital for a thorough examination, Desmond said. 

Margaret frowned, visibly displeased with the suggestion of hospitalization. She disliked hospitals, with their pervasive disinfectant smell and oppressive atmosphere, and preferred the comfort of her own home. Moreover, she still held onto her belief in traditional medicine over modern practices. 

With a hint of irritation in her voice, she said, “Do you doctors rely on machines for everything? Melody could diagnose my condition just by checking my pulse. It seems you are not even as capable as a young girl.” 

The doctors exchanged glances, their expressions darkening. Their previous condescension toward Melody now turned into a mix of embarrassment and hostility. 

If not for the Swanson family’s esteemed reputation in Silverlake, the doctors might have already left the house after being beliuled by Margaret’s dismissive attitude. 

Desmond swiftly regained his composure and offered a reassuring smile. “Madam, it’s not that we cannot diagnose your condition. Quite the contrary, we simply seek more comprehensive data to ensure your well–being 

Despite his thorough explanation, it was evident that Margaret hadn’t absorbed a single word. Recognizing this, Desmond shified gears to discuss the treatment plan they had previously devised 

“A minor surgical procedure is all that’s required, and you’ll feel much better afterward. Rest assured, you’ll be able to resume your normal activities, Desmond assured Margaret. 

Margaret’s expression darkened further at the mention of surgery. Sitting up straight in bed, she exclaimed, “What?! You want to cut me open!!” 

Tm already in my eighties! And you want me to undergo surgery? Do you know how many elderly folks die on the operating table?” Margaret’s voice boomed through the room, her thoughts echoing her fear, Even if I’m going to pass, I want to do so comfortably at home, with my body intact, she thought. 

The doctors hadn’t anticipated such a strong reaction from Margaret, prompting Desmond to step in swiftly to offer reassurance. “Please, don’t worry. The procedure will be painless You’ll be under anesthesia, completely unconscious, while we make a small, four–inch incision. It’s a minor, low–risk surgery, and I assure you there’s no danger involved.” 

川 

Despite Desmond’s attempts to assuage Margaret’s fears, he couldn’t shake his own doubts. Without a thorough examination and considering Margaret’s advanced age, there were numerous uncontrollable variables to consider, such as post–surgery recovery and the risk of infection 

If it had been any other patient, Desmond would have meticulously detailed the potential complications of the surgery. However, in the presence of the influential Swanson family, he hesitated to voice any uncertainties, fearing it might tarnish their perception of the medical team’s competence, Unfortunately, this hesitation only fueled Margaret’s agitation further. 

“Four inches!! Do you have any idea how long that is?” Margaret’s voice rose sharply. “Ramon, tell them to leave immediately. I refuse their treatment. I won’t go to the hospital and certainly won’t undergo surgery!” 

Ramon’s expression betrayed his distress at his mother’s outburst. He gestured apologetically to the doctors before turning to comfort Margaret. “Mom, please, these are the finest surgeons in the country, with years of experience behind them. If you cooperate, your recovery will be swift. Remember, I still plan to take you on a trip around the world. 

“A trip around the world? Spare me the talk. I have no interest in it! I’d rather meet my end at home than on an operating table!” Margaret’s voice reverberated with anger, her frustration palpable. 

“Mom Ramon attempted to interject, hoping to persuade her once more. 

“Enough!” Margaret cut him off sharply. “I won’t undergo this surgery. If you persist, it’s as if you’re wishing for my demise right now!” Her tone was resolute, her expression steely, hinting at the possibility of extreme action if they continued to pressure her. 

Ramon recoiled, caught off guard by his mother’s fierce determination. He dared not push any further. 

Meanwhile, Astrid appeared to relish the chaos. She seemed eager for Melody to slip up and exacerbate Margaret’s condition. She gently squeezed Ramon’s hand and remarked, “Smce Mom trusts Miss Fox, let’s hear her treatment plan. Uncomfortable with being compared to a much younger individual, Desmond directed a skeptical gaze at Melody. “It seems Mrs. Margaret has placed considerable trust in you. What treatment approach do you propose?” he inquired, harboring suspicions about her credentials and expertise. 

Facing Desmond’s scrutiny, Melody maintained her composure. My expertise lies in traditional medicine. While I don’t claim mastery, I am confident in addressing Mrs. Margaret’s condition through this approach.” 

“Is that so?” Desmond’s skepticism lingered. “Then, please enlighten us on your proposed traditional medicinal treatment, he challenged, his tone betraying a hint of doubt regarding the efficacy of such unconventional methods, oblivious to their profound potential. 

Despite the undertones of skepticism in Desmond’s tone, Melody remained composed as she explained her approach. “In traditional medicine, we interpret Mrs. Margaret’s condition as a stagnation of vital energy within the body, likely caused by excessive consumption of nourishing supplements and a lack of physical activity. This stagnation leads to sluggish blood flow, resulting in discomfort and bloating in the abdominal region. To address this, I aim to restore the smooth flow of vital energy throughout her body, thus alleviating her symptoms.” 

As Melody delved into her treatment plan, her eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. Despite her unconventional appearance, her fervor captivated those around her. 

Ken found himself drawn to her as she spoke, briefly entranced by her focused demeanor. As he caught himself staring, he quickly averted his gaze, feeling a slight flush rise to his cheeks. She’s surprisingly captivating when she’s focused on something. he thought. 

For Melody, traditional medicine was more than just a skill. It was a lifelong passion instilled in her since childhood. She exuded an aura of confidence and expertise whenever she discussed the topic. Her words flowed effortlessly, each detail brimming with purpose and dedication. It was as if she possessed a natural radiance, her passion illuminating the room as she shared her insights and knowledge. 

2/3