In a change of scene, Katie found solace in Luciana's place, her eyes brimming as she confided in Luciana about Mitchel's coldness.

Luciana comforted, "Katie, don't fret. I'm here, and I trust you wholeheartedly. I acknowledge your baby."

The comfort found in Luciana's words bolstered Katie's resolve, her attentiveness to Luciana growing.

In the quiet introspection that followed, Katie couldn't help but lament her ploy that had led to Luciana's fall, all designed to lure Mitchel back. After all, Luciana's unguarded trust was far more pliable than Mitchel's guarded nature.

As the evening waned and conversation with Luciana dwindled, Katie's phone stirred to life with a buzz.

Masking her emotions, Katie handed Luciana the medication with a cheerful guise. “Luciana, your medicine's ready."

With a warm smile, Luciana accepted and drank with Katie's gaze firmly upon her.

Once Luciana was comfortably nestled in bed, Katie gently urged, "Time to sleep."

Luciana's slumber was swift, as it always was.

Katie observed the rhythm of Luciana's breathing for a moment before retrieving her phone, stepping quietly to the door. “How did it go?" she inquired.

Abel, his voice shaking, barely audible over the line, was a mess of wounds and blood. "Miss, I've completed the task."

A satisfied hum escaped Katie as she air-dried her freshly painted nails. “Nicely done. And Lauren's condition?"

“She's stable. I've administered her dose," Abel responded.

“Good. End the call now," Katie directed crisply.

But Abel hesitated, his voice laced with an earnest confession. “Miss, I must tell you about this. I hold you in high regard. It was your gaze during the fight that spurred me on. My only wish is for your continued happiness..."

Though only hearing his voice, Katie sensed the gravity of Abel's injuries.

Abel pressed on his wound, speaking slowly. "Regarding that night, it's all my fault. Please don't hate me. If only I had exercised more control..." His remorse was palpable even through the phone.

“Abel, you're forgiven. Yet, there's something you must do," Katie replied, her tone flat.

Grasping her cue and the gravity of the moment, Abel simply nodded.

“I'm aware."