Theodore carefully set Ariana down for the doctor to examine and administer basic first aid. When he saw the bandages on her neck and hands, he found himself instinctively reaching out to touch her cheek. Only by feeling her steady breathing could he quell his own panic.

Pulling his hand back, he turned to face Sarah, his voice uncharacteristically soft as he apologized, "I'm sorry."

Sarah, taken aback by Theodore's unexpected apology, was momentarily speechless.

Immediately following his apology, Theodore added, "This incident was my fault. I will make it up to you. Any future requests will be taken into account."

Sarah waved him off.

"Come on, Ariana and | are friends. No need to thank me."

“No, I don't like being indebted to anyone," Theodore retorted, his tone brooking no argument. Sarah understood his unyielding nature and, not wanting to provoke him further, simply nodded in acceptance.

After providing Ariana with initial emergency treatment, they hurriedly made their way to the hospital.

Upon reaching the hospital, the doctor conducted a thorough examination of Ariana. Apart from her injured foot, it was determined that there were no other major injuries—just some minor cuts and scrapes from the altercation and escape, primarily on her hands and neck. However, the fracture in her foot had worsened, potentially requiring surgery.

“We will assess her further and devise an operation plan once she regains consciousness. It is crucial that we contact her previous attending doctor to obtain more information about her foot injury. Mr. Anderson, do you happen to know who her previous attending doctor is?" the doctor inquired, while jotting down notes for the report.

Theodore, who had just had his arm set, looked towards the doctor with a darkened expression.

“Mitchel Chadwick, JN Hospital." Despite his dislike for Mitchel, Theodore reluctantly gave the doctor the information he needed.

"Very well. I will contact him immediately." The doctor acknowledged with a nod and left the room.

Theodore stood by the hospital bed, observing Ariana’s peaceful slumber, finally finding solace in the release of his worries. He took a seat, gently grasping her hand and pressing a tender kiss against it. Fatigue etched across his face.

“Excuse me, Mr. Anderson. It's time to apply medication to Miss Edwards." A nurse entered the room, holding a tray of medicine. Theodore stepped aside to give her space.

The nurse displayed impressive professionalism in her technique. However, as the medicine took effect, Ariana, still asleep, instinctively furrowed her brow and let out a soft whimper. Beads of cold sweat formed on her forehead.

Concern evident on his face, Theodore's voice tumed cold as he addressed the nurse, "Handle her with care. She is afraid of pain."

"Yes, Mr. Anderson," the nurse responded, her hand trembling slightly. She felt the heaviness in the atmosphere, as if it could freeze.

Suddenly, her back stiffened, and she dared not take a deep breath. Focusing intently on her hands, she feared inflicting any further discomfort upon the unconscious woman in the bed. Despite her experience as a seasoned nurse, the scrutiny from the man beside her made her more nervous and fearful than any assessment during her own internship.

Bracing herself, the nurse prepared to tend to Ariana's wounds. Suddenly, Theodore interjected, "Allow me to take care of the rest." He grabbed the medication from the tray without waiting for the nurse's response.