As evening descended, Theodore concluded his affairs and returned to the hospital.

Upon reaching the sixth floor, he noticed a nurse stationed outside Ariana's room. Filled with concern, he approached her, and she promptly relayed the distressing news.

"Miss Edwards has not eaten or drunk anything for an entire day. She's been confined to her bed. Every time we try to approach her, she becomes aggressive and throws objects. To prevent further agitation, we've been maintaining a distance. When the doctor came for rounds earlier, she was already asleep," the nurse explained.

Theodore's heart clenched as he absorbed the information. Nodding silently, he gently pushed open the door to Ariana's room. There she lay, her back turned to him, her figure curled up on the bed.

Quietly, Theodore approached, making his way towards her until he reached the bedside. Tear stains glistened on her eyelashes, evidence that she had fallen asleep while crying.