Elissa understood her implication and gave a slight smile. “If we were truly rich, we wouldn't be renting our home. I simply can't bear to see the child suffer!"

Brantley lay with his IV drip, his face still red with fever, gazing up at Elissa.

She softly caressed his face, encouraging him to rest and promising that his fever would likely break by morning.

Clutching her hand firmly, Brantley weakly asked, "Will you stay?"

Elissa nodded, assuring him she would stay by his side.

Brantley adjusted slightly, trying to create space for Elissa to lie down as well. He said, "The baby needs some sleep too!"

Elissa was indeed feeling very tired.

She settled against Brantley's pillow, lying on her side and sharing the blanket with him.

She watched over Brantley attentively.

After some time, Brantley scooted closer and laid his head on her chest, murmuring, “I'm sorry..."

Tears welled up in Elissa's eyes.

She didn't say anything, simply embracing him tenderly.

After a quiet moment, she gently ran her fingers through Brantley's hair and whispered, “Let's not worry about any of that! You're simply my little brother from now on."

Brantley nestled deeper into Elissa's arms. He remained silent, but soon, her chest felt wet with his tears.

Elissa felt a deep sigh rise within her. She considered Brantley too delicate and thought Raphael ought to show him how to be more resilient.

By morning, Brantley's fever had subsided.

Only then did Elissa call Raphael to update him on the situation.

Raphael was quiet on the phone for a while before suggesting, “Maybe I should drop the project. I can't just leave you on your own in Duefron."

But Elissa was adamant.

She said quietly but resolutely, “Raphael, you know the effort it took to secure this project. It's not only about the profit but also the partnership with Evans Group. With their support, your future will be much smoother. Without this project, who else would take a chance to collaborate with you?"

Her words were harsh but true.

Raphael remained silent.

Elissa lowered her voice again and said in a whisper, “The money I have here and the funds my Dad left for Brantley should cover our expenses for the rest of our lives, even if you never earn another dime! But that's not what you want for us, for yourself. Raphael, have you forgotten why you decided to rebuild your career? If you think it's not important anymore, then come back... just be sure you won't regret it later.”

Raphael was deeply touched by Elissa's words. "Elissa..."