Clearing her throat, she offered a gentle reassurance. "Things will turn around, you'll see."

Carlow met her gaze briefly, a hint of optimism flickering within.

"I'll hold you to that."

Breaking the silence, Karina cautiously broached the subject. “I saw you at the hospital last time. Your leg, it's still healing, right?"

Carlow glanced down at his leg. “Yes, it is."

“and what did the doctor say?"

“He mentioned that even after it heals, I'll have a slight limp,"

Carlow said, his fingers tracing over the injured limb, lost in thought.

Karina struggled to find the right words. Finally, she mumbled, "It's okay. Being alive is what truly matters."

Carlow nodded in agreement. “You're right. Just being alive is enough. But I can't shake the feeling that no woman would want a disabled man like me. I might end up single."

Karina glanced at him, eager to reassure him. “That's not true. You're much more than your disability. In all truth, personality matters more than looks. And there are plenty of wonderful women who will see that in you."

His eyes gleaming with intensity, Carlow pondered her words.

“Do you really think so?"

“Of course," Karina replied honestly.

Yet, a sense of unease gnawed at her.

Why was he suddenly interested in her opinion?

Karina eyed him warily, but he seemed unfazed, casually sipping his water as if the conversation was mundane.

Perhaps she was overthinking it. It was just a casual chat.

Just then, her phone rang, displaying an incoming call from Jack.

Karina excused herself. "I need to take this call."