Nicole had never encountered anyone as emotionally resilient as Rhett.

Many would have crumbled under such stress.

Rhett then rose effortlessly, as though unaffected. “Let's leave, Miss Lawrence. I'll drive you home."

Nicole paused, suggesting, “Perhaps I should arrange a driver for you."

She was concerned about the safety of Rhett driving in his condition.

But Rhett reassured her with a confident smile, "Miss Lawrence, trust me, I can drive us home without any trouble. It's really nothing. I've consulted with my friends at the research institute. I've received prompt treatment, and the risk of infection is very low. Don't be overly concerned. If such an extraordinary event were to impact me, I'd just accept it as fate. I hold no grudges."

Nicole was in awe of Rhett's candidness and resilience. Wishing she could adopt even a fraction of his outlook, she realized her own suffering might be lessened.

Nicole made her way to the hospital.

Rhett had now been transferred to the provincial hospital for specialized care in infectious diseases.

When Nicole arrived, she found Rhett already hooked up to an IV. He seemed surprised to see her. "Miss Lawrence, what brings you here?" he asked.

“I happened to be nearby and thought I'd check on you," Nicole replied, not wanting to admit she had come specifically to see Rhett.

Noticing his discomfort and pale appearance, Nicole asked, “Are you thirsty? Would you like some water?"

Rhett, though not particularly thirsty, had a sore throat. “If it's alright with you, could you get me some water?" he asked.

"Sure, I'll get some now," Nicole said.

"My thermos is in my briefcase. I can't reach it like this. Could you take it out for me?"

Nicole retrieved the thermos from the said briefcase, inadvertently pulling out Rhett's work ID along with it.

On the back of the ID was a carefully preserved photo of a woman with a bright smile and a lovely face.

Nicole assumed this must be Rhett's girlfriend, even though he had never mentioned her. Clearly, he was deeply in love with her to keep her photo so close.

Feeling groggy, Rhett didn't notice the mishap. Nicole quickly put the ID back and went to get the water. On her way back, she ran into Conor, Jarrod's assistant.

"Miss Lawrence, are you here to see Mr. Schultz?" Conor greeted her enthusiastically.