Ernest could never bring himself to strike a woman, whether it was Linda or a stranger. Still, a thought that had been lingering in his mind for days now quietly took root.

“Eric. Hadley. We’re leaving.” He lowered his fist and spun on his heel, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Without delay, Eric reached for Hadley’s hand, and the two hurried after him.

As they left, Linda stood frozen, watching them disappear down the hallway. Her lips twisted into a bitter, almost helpless smile.

She recognized the shift in Ernest. Maybe he hadn’t noticed it himself, but she felt it deep in her bones. Back when Elissa was around, Ernest had always managed to act attentive, at least for her sake. Still, Linda had always suspected it was more out of obligation than genuine care.

Now that Elissa was gone, his patience had vanished along with her. He no longer bothered pretending. It felt like everyone around her was slowly abandoning her, one after another.

At the hospital, Ernest, Eric, and Hadley sat down with the doctor, anxious for an update on Addy’s condition.

The news was far from good. A team of emergency staff waited just next door. Around-the-clock care was on standby, prepared for anything.

“You two should go home now.” After stepping out of the doctor’s office, Ernest turned to Eric and Hadley. He gave them a grateful wave. “Thank you both for being here.”

Eric didn’t , but worry lingered in Hadley’s eyes. She wondered how devastated Elissa would be if she knew Addy’s health had taken such a turn. Even though Elissa had other family, Addy was the one who had truly cared for her. He had been there from the start.

“Ernest.” Hadley’s question came quietly. “Are you going to stay?” She couldn’t understand why he didn’t want to leave with them.

“Yes. I’ll stay right here.” A firm nod followed. Ernest gestured toward the ward. “Addy shouldn’t be alone tonight.”

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There were doctors, nurses, and caregivers everywhere, but that wasn’t enough for him. “If Elissa were still here, she wouldn’t leave his side. She can’t be here now, so I have to take her place.”

Once she stepped outside the hospital, a heavy sense of unease settled over Hadley.

Sensing her anxiety, Eric tried to reassure her. “Try not to worry. The most skilled doctors are already on the case…”

Whatever happened next would come down to fate and everyone’s best efforts. Worry for Addy gnawed at Hadley, though something else troubled her as well. Her voice came out uncertain. “With Addy’s condition this bad, should we let Elissa know?”

Deep down, fear lingered that Addy might not survive this.

Eric took a moment before responding, weighing the situation. “Are you thinking about telling her?”

Conflicted, Hadley furrowed her brow and slowly shook her head. “I’m not sure.” The truth was, she had no answer.

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