Chapter 9 .
Chapter 9 Joseph and I quickly fell into an easy rhythm working together .
He was universally beloved at the camp not just for his exceptional medical skills and reliability in crises , but for his infectious humor that could coax a laugh from anyone .
Even my most reticent interview subjects would open up when he was around , sharing stories theyd normally keep close to their chest .
I found myself gravitating toward his presence more and more .
One day , while following him as he sprayed cholera preventive solutions around the camp , we heard a piercing cry for help from an empty tent .
We rushed over and pulled back the flap to find a man pinning a young girl to the ground , tearing at her clothes .
My blood ran cold .
I lunged forward , shoving the man away .
He stumbled but quickly regained his footing , cursing as he raised his fist to strike .
Before the blow could land , Joseph pulled me behind him and thrust forward his work ID .
If you want to keep receiving medical care , I suggest you leave .
Now .
The mans eyes fixed on the red cross emblazoned on Josephs badge .
With a stream of muttered obscenities , he hastily pulled up his pants and fled .
We escorted the girl to the UNHCR office and arranged for her relocation to a different tent .
Once everything was settled , Joseph gave my shoulder a gentle squeeze .
Dont let it get to you .
You did good .
I stiffened .
Im fine .
Violence and crime were inevitable realities in refugee camps Id known that from the start .
But Joseph cocked his head , studying me .
You dont look fine .
His observation caught me off guard .
I touched my face reflexively , as if to verify his words .
Then , without warning , his serious expression melted into a playful grin as he pinched my cheeks .
Your emotions arent just written on your face , you know ! It became his new favorite game .
Every time we met , hed observe me for a moment before declaring , Youre in high spirits today , or Alright , who got under your skin this time ? I couldnt help but laugh , equal parts irritated and amused .
How do you do that ? 17:43 Backup Girl No More : Adios To My V Card and My First Love 21.9 % Chapter 9 He leaned back , lacing his fingers behind his head with a knowing smirk .
I have a younger brother .
You remind me of him sometimes both of you try to bottle everything up inside .
The mention of family made my smile fade , and I fell quiet .

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What about you ? I ventured carefully .
Doesnt your family worry about you being here ? His expression turned neutral , almost detached , as he shook his head .
Were not in contact anymore .
What ? Why ? The words tumbled out before I could stop them .
I wouldnt play by their rules .
There was resignation in his voice .
They were suffocating .
Growing up , everything was dictated this program , that activity .
Any resistance meant punishment .
I did what they wanted studied medicine , landed a hospital position .
But it was never enough .
They kept pushing chase that promotion , build that reputation , bring honor to the family name .
I couldnt live like that anymore .
With Doctors Without Borders , I can focus on what medicine should be about saving lives .
Thats what I love .
He exhaled heavily .
I worry about my brother , though .
I looked at him questioningly .
A bitter smile crossed his face as he continued , They had him as a backup plan , in case I proved disappointing .
After I left , they pushed him down the same path Id escaped .
He puts on a show of compliance , but I know hes drowning inside .
I heard he fell for this free spirited girl , but my parents … He trailed off , shaking his head .
They made sure that ended quickly .
It was the first time hed opened up about his family .
I hadnt expected such pain beneath his cheerful exterior .
We sat in companionable silence until he turned to me .
What about you ? What brought you here to practice medicine ? Doesnt your family worry ? GM Ca