The cigarette smoldered between Leonel's fingers.

He was then abruptly pulled from his reverie by the familiar click of high heels-Alexis returning to her public duties after her work, her heels echoing through the corridor.

The sound jolted Leonel, stirring something within him.

He was so lost in thought that he nearly burned his hand before hastily snuffing out the cigarette. Yet, he didn't immediately leave.

Instead, he remained seated in his wheelchair, gazing out the window in silence, his view frustratingly limited by his seated position.

He stubbornly sat there, unsure of what he was waiting for or even what he was thinking about. His thoughts wandered to Alexis— perhaps she was enjoying her time with that respectable man...

When the solitude became too much, Leonel turned to Noreen and commanded flatly, "Let's go!"

Noreen approached, ready to push his wheelchair.

"I would like to walk by myself," Leonel stated, his voice hoarse, gripping the armrests tightly.

Noreen looked concerned and reminded him softly, "Mr. Douglas, remember what Dr. Glyn advised? He said you should remain in the wheelchair for at least another two weeks."

Leonel remained silent, his grip on the armrests tightening.

Realizing persuasion was futile, Noreen reluctantly supported him as he stood, wincing as he clutched her arm with surprising strength, reflecting the pain he must have been enduring.

Once Leonel found his balance, Noreen suggested cautiously, “How about I help you to the car?"

"No, thanks," Leonel dismissed her offer abruptly.

Noreen paused, unsure of what to do next, and then added, “The parking lot is outdoors, and it's raining."

Leonel stood up straight, his body rigid with tension.

Noreen instantly regretted her words, sensing she had struck a nerve.

After a heavy silence, Leonel spoke in a constrained tone, "Are you worried I'll slip? You think I'm broken, don't you?"

Hearing this, Noreen felt a pang of sadness.

She quickly tried to reassure him, "Not at all! Dr. Glyn said that with consistent rehabilitation, your leg will regain—"