It was almost the same language I had been using at home.

On the way out, a young resident recognized him and asked whether he would someday explain a challenging procedure from a recent case.

Callum hesitated.

Then he said, “Once I’m feeling better, yes.

Bring your questions.”

His expression shifted.

He had spent so long believing usefulness meant holding a scalpel that he had forgotten he could teach, reassure, and make room for another person’s growth.

That evening he started a folder of notes for the resident.