“Alan, I need to ask you for a favor."

In the days that followed, Melissa and Marcus didn't encounter each other, nor did they communicate.

A week later, it snowed again. Matthew caught a cold due to excessive play and developed a high fever. He remained hospitalized for two days, receiving intravenous treatment. His condition was severe, leading him to cry out for his father, a rare occurrence.

That evening, the air in the hospital's private room was tinged with the faint scent of medicine.

Matthew had spiked a fever again, prompting the nurse to administer an IV drip. Melissa cradled her son, trying to comfort him.