Wearing a gentle smile, Theodore turned off the bedside lamp and advised, "Do not succumb to emotions during this trying period, lest your heart bear the burden and it can't. Heed the doctor's guidance, and may the next surgery proceed smoothly, free from any unforeseen complications."

“Of course, Theodore." Helen nodded, nestling her chin beneath the covers, contemplating how to sabotage the forthcoming surgery. She resolved not to undergo the operation; as long as her heart ailment persisted, Theodore would remain tethered to her!

Only after ensuring Helen had closed her eyes did Theodore wheel the chair toward the exit. However, as he was about to open the door, something struck him. He turned back to face the bed where Helen lay, his tone filled with regret as he spoke.

“Helen, I forgot to inform you that the doctor mentioned a special condition in your physical constitution, predisposing you to severe scarring. Given your heart condition, facial reconstruction surgery is perilous, leaving medicinal treatment as the only option until your heart surgery is complete."

Pausing for a moment, he sighed, "Mentally prepare yourself, for the scar on your face will become increasingly challenging to heal with the passage of time.

Regrettably, medication can only offer limited efficacy compared to surgery. Well, do not dwell on it too much. Focus on your well-being, and we shall revisit this matter after your heart operation."

With that, Theodore bid Helen good night and departed.

Silence enveloped the expansive ward, and Helen remained engulfed in turmoil.

She longed to rise from her bed and confront Theodore, seeking clarification.

However, hindered by an infusion bottle and other medical apparatus, she stumbled and collapsed, emitting anguished cries.

Soon, the commotion reached the ears of on-duty nurses and doctors.

To calm her frayed nerves, a tranquilizer was swiftly injected into Helen's arm.

She stared vacantly at the ceiling, tears cascading from her eyes, while a newfound serenity enveloped her inner being. The raging hatred seemed momentarily silenced, yet it left an indelible imprint on her soul, impossible to erase!

She kept murmuring the name Ariana.

Eleymond, even in the depths of midnight or the early hours of the morning, never ceased its clamor and activity.

Ariana sat on the balcony, wrapping her arms around her knees. Her gaze fixed upon distant neon lights as her heart sank bit by bit.

Darkness prevailed, with only moonlight as her companion.

She had a heavy blanket over her, but it wasn't helping her feel any better from the inside.

As an expectant mother, she ought not to surrender to melancholy and sentimentality, for it would adversely affect the healthy development of her baby.

However, her emotions triumphed over reason, an unrelenting buzz playing in her mind.