chapter998

"This definitely calls for a level of skill most people just don't have," one of the doctors said.

"For the Miracle Doctor to claim an eighty percent success rate-well, that's nothing short of remarkable!"

Miracle Doctor, would we be allowed to observe the surgery? Or if you wouldn't mind could we assist you as part of the team?" another chimed in, eagerness in his voice.

"Yes, we could serve as your assistants! We're all at the very top of our fields some of the best you'll find anywhere!"

They all watched Calliope expectantly, worried she might turn them down. Each of them was itching to witness her skills firsthand, to see what set her apart.

Calliope nodded graciously. "Of course. I'd welcome your help. With surgeons of your caliber assisting me, I'd consider myself very fortunate indeed."

A few simple words, and she had them beaming. Where moments earlier they'd felt overmatched, her praise brought them right back up. She managed to make them feel seen not just outclassed, but valued. In that moment, they all thought the same thing: Calliope wasn't just brilliant; she understood people, too.

"We're the ones who should be grateful," said one.

"If I get to see this surgery completed, I'll count it as one of the highlights of my career," another added.

"It would honestly be an honor just to witness the Miracle Doctor at work!"

"With your reputation, being on your surgical team is a career-defining opportunity our colleagues will be dying to know how we pulled it off.

Their comments tumbled over each other with growing excitement.

On the sidelines, Silas hadn't joined in the discussion, but the look in his eyes as he watched Calliope was unmistakable pride, deep and unguarded. She was his wife. His astounding wife, who could win over these renowned experts with just a few words. When she switched into work mode, she exuded charisma and total control, as though nothing could faze her.

"If we're going to do this, we need to move quickly," Calliope said, turning to Silas. "The poison in her system is still active. If we wait, her condition will only deteriorate further-and that'll make the surgery even riskier."

"She's right, we really should operate as soon as possible," one specialist agreed.

"The Miracle Doctor's method is outstanding, Mr. Myers. It's worth serious consideration!"

"With our combined expertise, I think we can push the success rate up even higher," another offered. The consensus was unanimous.

Though this was their first meeting with Calliope, her competence had them entirely won over in moments.

You have the final say, Silas told her without hesitation. I trust you.

Calliope hesitated, just for a heartbeat. Was he being too hasty? Trusting her so completely? She'd never promised a guaranteed result.

"It isn't a sure thing. There's still a

chance it could fail," she said quietly. "You should really think this through After all, this was the woman who'd always held his heart. If something went wrong Calliope knew she couldn't fully shoulder that loss. She could promise only her best effort, not a miracle.

17:

"But if we do nothing, there's no hope at all, right?" Silas glanced at the pale woman lying on the bed. "If we to least there's some

chance-however small."

Calliope nodded.

The other doctors, however, protested immediately.

"It's more than just 'some chance," one insisted.

"With the Miracle Doctor, this is the best hope she could possibly have! That's extraordinary on its own!"

"Mr. Myers, we must do this surgery. You won't find anyone with greater skill-or any alternative plan with better odds!"

"It's the best shot we have for success!"

With all the experts backing the operation, Silas didn't hesitate. He agreed on the spot and turned to Calliope. When do you want to start?"