A wave of disappointment washed over him.

“Why didn't you reach out to me immediately?" Aziel's voice was slightly raspy, and he struggled to keep his upset and frustration at bay while holding Sarah's gaze.

"Not only did you refrain from informing me of the incident, but even after you were discharged from the hospital, you chose to rely on someone else to arrange transportation for you instead of reaching out to me for a ride?"

“You're swamped with work, aren't you? I didn't wish to disturb you," Sarah justified her actions, her tone flat and lifeless.

Her statement was meant to serve as an alibi, but it came across as an indication of detachment and estrangement to him.