“I can't leave." Tears welled up in her eyes as she stared at Horace. Her voice was a whisper carrying the weight of her distress.

“What happened to him? Is it serious?"

Before Horace could reply, she pressed on, desperation lacing her words.

“Why was he taking that medicine? You're hiding something from me, aren't you?"

Horace opened his mouth to respond, but the words seemed to elude him.