Theodore's countenance grew somber as he carefully lifted her other leg, inquiring, “How does this feel? Do you experience any discomfort?"

Ariana nodded obediently and replied, "A little, but it's not too painful. Perhaps it's just a sprain."

“You must go to the hospital immediately," he insisted. Promptly making a decision, Theodore examined the damp fabric clinging to her body, gently raising her and settling her upon his lap. Without uttering a word, he swiftly removed her dress.

“Hey, hey, I'll change it myself! Don't take it off." Theodore's reckless actions caught Ariana off guard. She instinctively shielded her chest with her hands, anxiously contorting her body to prevent her exposed belly from being noticed.

Distracted by the injury to her foot, Theodore paid no attention to her unnatural behavior. As he helped her put on her clothes and pants, he averted his gaze from any other part of her body.

Each movement orchestrated by Theodore flushed Ariana's face entirely crimson.

She felt as though she were being manipulated like a puppet. Finally, she settled into a wheelchair and was gently guided out of the changing room.

Upon opening the door, she spotted Mitchel standing before her. Obvious bruises marred his forehead, and there was swelling at the corner of his mouth. His glasses were conspicuously absent.

Ariana was shocked.

"Dr. Chadwick, what happened?"

As soon as the words escaped her lips, she realized that Theodore was responsible for them.

Oh, no! Would Theodore be in trouble? After all, Mitchel was a man not to be trifled with, not to be taken lightly.

Despite the bruises marring his face, Mitchel couldn't help but concern himself with Ariana's injuries. His instinct as a doctor kicked in, and he moved towards her to check her ankle.

His path, however, was obstructed by Theodore, who coldly intoned, "Dr. Chadwick, mind your own business.”

The air between them seemed to congeal, tension prickling the space.

“Let me pass,” Mitchel responded, holding Theodore's hand at bay.

"I need to get my wife to the hospital." The word ‘wife’ was voiced with an emphasis, an assertion of his claim over Ariana.

With a curt shake, Theodore freed his hand from Mitchel's grip.

Retorting in an emotionless tone, Mitchel stated, "I'm Ariana's attending physician.

It's my prerogative to assess my patient's injuries.”