The evening of the charity gala had finally arrived, and the venue was nothing short of breathtaking. The event was held in a grand ballroom with high ceilings adorned with crystal chandeliers that cast a warm, soft glow over the room. The walls were adorned with exquisite tapestries and art, and the space was elegantly decorated with cascading floral arrangements in shades of silver and gold.

Guests mingled beneath the glittering chandeliers, a sea of well-dressed attendees, each of whom had come to support the hospital's noble cause: raising funds for critical research projects. Doctors in their finest attire discussed medical breakthroughs, while business magnates conversed about potential partnerships. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, as everyone recognized the importance of their presence at this charity gala.

Among the attendees, there was a noticeable shift in energy as Dr. Tiffany Hwang made her entrance. 

She arrived at the gala alone but her aura radiated confidence and grace, enough to shine all by herself. Dressed in a long, crimson-red gown, her bare shoulders and back revealed in the strapless ensemble, she appeared absolutely stunning.

Tiffany's dress clung to her in all the right places, accentuating her figure in the most elegant way. The rich hue of the gown mirrored the warmth of her smile as she gracefully moved through the crowd. Her dark hair cascaded down her back in loose waves, and her makeup highlighted her features with a subtle touch of sophistication.

As Tiffany entered the ballroom, heads turned in her direction. Whispers of admiration and awe rippled through the attendees. It was impossible not to be captivated by her presence. She seemed to glow with much beauty and poise in the midst of the gala.

The room was abuzz with chatter and filled with well-dressed attendees, and even though Tiffany was greeted with turned heads and warm smiles, the doctor couldn't shake the sense that something was amiss

She had been looking forward to this gala for weeks, excited about the prospect of showcasing her hospital's research projects and raising funds for their vital work. But there was a lingering sadness that marred her enthusiasm

It was a feeling she couldn't escape, rooted in the recent rejection she had faced. After extending an invitation to a certain fire captain, Tiffany had been met with a surprising "no." And then, to her dismay, Taeyeon had gone MIA, barely responding to her text messages

Tiffany couldn't help but wonder why Taeyeon had decided not to attend the gala. Had she said something to upset her? Or was there another reason behind the sudden change of attitude? It was a puzzle she couldn't solve, and it left her feeling disheartened

But now is not the time to dwell on that.

Tiffany's eyes scanned the room, searching for familiar faces.

Her search was rewarded when she spotted Yoona and Sunny at one of the standing tables drinking what seems to be a glass of champagne. She approached them with a smile that matched the radiance of the gala itself.

"Hey, you two."

Sunny turned first, her eyes lighting up when she saw Tiffany. "Fany-ah! Wow, you look absolutely stunning!"

"Thank you," Tiffany replied, a faint blush gracing her cheeks as she exchanged air kisses with Sunny. "You look very hot today as well, Sunny!"

"Fany-unnie, you're breathtaking tonight," Yoona complimented, leaning in for a friendly hug.

"And you too, Yoona. My ever so gorgeous dongsaeng."

Sunny and Yoona were indeed dressed to impress, showcasing their own unique styles. As they chatted, Tiffany felt a sense of joy in their presence, effectively forgetting about a certain fire captain. It was comforting to be surrounded by friends who understood the challenges and triumphs of their profession. 

Their conversation continued as they discussed the gala, the impressive venue, and their hopes for the hospital's research projects Sunny and Yoona couldn't help but point out some of the notable attendees.

Sunny leaned in closer to Tiffany, excitement evident in her voice. "Tiffany, do you see that gentleman over there?" She discreetly nodded towards a distinguished-looking man in a sharp tuxedo. "That's Mr. Park, the CEO of ParkTech Industries. They've been quite generous with donations to the hospital in the past."

Tiffany raised an eyebrow, "And?"

"Tonight, I plan on using my charm to secure more funding for my research project." Sunny winked. "Maybe I can secure a date too. I mean, look at that bachelor."

Tiffany couldn't help but chuckle at Sunny's remarks. "You're incredible at that, Sunny. I'm sure Mr. Park won't be able to resist your charm."

"I have my own target too. But just for the funding." Yoona chimed in, her eyes locked on one side of the room. "Do you see that lady by the bar? That's Dr. Seo Juhyun from Lee Pharmaceuticals. We've been discussing potential collaborations for months. Tonight, I'll make sure to seal that deal."

Tiffany couldn't help but admire her friends' dedication to advancing medical research. She, too, is preparing for a research that may need some funding. Although, she haven't been able to discuss it with anyone yet. Maybe tonight, she could get started. 

As they continued their conversation, Tiffany couldn't help but check her phone discreetly for a message. 

None.

She sighed. Gotta forget about that.

The gala was not just a glamorous event or a dance someone said no to come with her to; it was a crucial opportunity to secure funds that could drive forward groundbreaking medical research. 

So no thinking about her tonight.

Tiffany, Sunny, and Yoona continued to chat as they navigated the bustling ballroom, their eyes occasionally darting to other potential donors and collaborators. 

Sunny flashed a confident smile at a group of businessmen, clearly using her charisma to engage them in conversation. "Gentlemen, how are you all doing?"

Tiffany marveled at Sunny's ability to effortlessly draw people into meaningful discussions. Yoona, on the other hand, was already in deep conversation with Dr. Seo, discussing potential projects and partnerships. The pharmaceutical company she represented had the resources to make a significant impact on medical advancements, which Yoona needed.

"Dr. Lee, I've heard promising things about your department," Dr. Park commented on Sunny, his eyes reflecting genuine interest. "I believe we can accomplish great things together."

As her friends mingled with potential donors and partners, Tiffany couldn't help but sigh. The night isn't turning out to be as fun as she wanted it to.

Her phone buzzed, momentarily drawing her attention away from the crowd. She checked her messages, much quicker than she would've normally done, half-expecting to see a message from Taeyeon. However, it was a notification from a colleague about a work-related matter.

Tiffany sighed inwardly, knowing that her responsibilities as a doctor often demanded her attention, even at a social event. She responded quickly, trying to ensure that her absence from the hospital wouldn't hinder patient care.

The ballroom buzzed with conversations and laughter, the music adding to the festive atmosphere, but suddenly, Tiffany wasn't feeling any of it. As Tiffany excused herself from Sunny and Yoona, she made her way toward the bar area to get some drinks. 

Just as she reached the bar, a hand gently touched her arm, causing her to turn her head to see who it was. Standing there was Dr. Nichkhun Horvejkul, the charming and confident neurosurgeon who had been trying to catch her attention since she had joined the hospital.

"Dr. Hwang," he greeted with a warm smile, his brown eyes gleaming. "You look absolutely stunning tonight."

Tiffany offered a polite smile, though her eyes scanned the room briefly, as if searching for an escape route. Dr. Nichkhun had a reputation for being quite persistent when it came to pursuing his romantic interests.

And Tiffany? Well, let's just say she's not interested at all.

"Thank you, Dr. Horvejkul," she replied, maintaining her professionalism.

He leaned in a little closer, his voice dropping to a lower, more intimate tone. "Tiffany, you can c