The weight of the secret became palpable as they walked side by side, and he wrestled with the conflicting emotions within him. He couldn't bear the thought that the love he held for Ariana might inadvertently lead her down a path of regret in the future.

Suppressing the ache in his heart, Theodore gracefully maneuvered the car, drawing closer to Ariana.

"I really don't want to return to the hospital," Ariana expressed, a touch of frustration seeping through her words.

“Being confined there all the time feels suffocating, and honestly, I think I'm better now, at least physically.”

With genuine concern etched on his face, Theodore inquired, "Then where would you like to go instead?"