Seeing Paisley reach for more coffee, Rena gently halted her, concern etched on her face.

"Please refrain from drinking this, considering your delicate health," she implored.

Paisley offered a tender smile, appreciating Rena's care.

Rena handed Paisley a check, totaling twelve million dollars, with an additional half a million dollars as a gesture of goodwill.

However, Paisley refused to accept it, her pride and independence shining through.

Rena clasped Paisley's frail hand, her voice filled with unwavering devotion.

"I'll be here, waiting for your return," she whispered.

Deciding to hold onto the shares temporarily, Rena vowed to transfer them all back to Paisley upon her homecoming.

As Rena reflected on Paisley's situation, she realized that Paisley had neither a substantial family nor a spouse and children.

She had no one and nothing to worry about even if she were to die.

After Rena said that however, Paisley's nose twitched and she scolded with a smile, “Bad girl, I was thinking that I would find a handsome man abroad and wouldn't come back. But you're holding me back with the music studio now."

Despite their lighthearted banter and laughter, an undercurrent of sadness flowed between them.

Paisley's advanced stomach cancer cast a shadow of uncertainty over their future encounters.

The two friends could not foresee the twists and turns destiny had in store for them.

Filled with sorrow, Rena shared a farewell meal with Paisley, unaware of the unexpected encounter waiting for her.

Waylen, absent for nearly a week and barely exchanging more than brief conversations over the phone, stood before her.

They hadn't seen each other for almost a week.

Even when they called, they said very little.

Their eyes met, and they couldn't help but be overwhelmed by a mix of emotions and unspoken words.

Accompanying Waylen were Jazlyn and two men Rena didn't recognize, a clear indication of their ongoing business affairs.

Rena acknowledged the situation with a slight nod, recognizing that Waylen was engaged in important matters.

She had intended to see Paisley safely home, but Paisley shook her head, a knowing smile playing on her Lips.