Jenna Roland arrived at Los Angeles General Hospital with her brother Milo at dawn. This time, she specifically booked an appointment with Dr. Zhou, the chief cardiothoracic specialist. The previous routine check-up results had left her uneasy.

The waiting area was packed. The sharp scent of disinfectant hung in the air. Milo slumped in his chair, his face paler than usual.

"Number 36 to Exam Room 3," the automated voice announced.

Jenna helped her brother up. Ethan and Daisy followed them inside. Dr. Zhou was reviewing medical records on his computer.

"What seems to be the problem?" The doctor adjusted his glasses.

Jenna detailed Milo's medical history and handed over a thick stack of test results. Dr. Zhou studied each report, his frown deepening.

"Rib fracture on the left side. The heart condition is more concerning." He set down the documents. "Was he previously diagnosed with congenital heart disease?"

"Yes, the tests confirmed it was congenital." Jenna clenched her fists. "We've been managing it with medication due to financial constraints. Doctor, how serious is it now?"

Dr. Zhou removed his glasses and rubbed his temples. "Medication only slows progression. Surgery is strongly recommended. The optimal treatment window was during infancy. Delaying further increases the risks."

Jenna's throat tightened. "I understand, but the cost—"

"Prolonging this could lead to organ failure. Surgical risks would double by then." His tone turned grave. "Young patients recover faster. The sooner, the better."

"Is a heart transplant necessary?" Her voice trembled.

The doctor nodded. "The structural deformity is severe. Conventional surgery won't correct it. With post-op anti-rejection therapy, total expenses would be around eight to nine hundred thousand."

The figure made Jenna's vision blur. Despite years of saving, she was still far short.

"Doctor, he complained of severe chest pain today..." Her voice cracked with urgency.

"Could be from the fracture, or the medication losing efficacy." Dr. Zhou suggested, "Hospitalization for observation would be prudent."

Daisy suddenly interjected, "Is he dying or something?"

"Shut your mouth!" Jenna whirled around, eyes blazing. "My brother will live to a hundred. You'll die first!"

Daisy recoiled, face purpling with suppressed rage.

Ignoring the outburst, Dr. Zhou continued, "The fractured rib is dangerously close to the thoracic cavity. I advise—"

Milo suddenly convulsed with violent coughs. Bright red blood splattered across the pristine medical forms.