The infusion room was private because they were aware of Rhett's condition.

After patching him up, the nurse reminded Rhett that he couldn't leave the hospital tonight and needed to stay for observation to monitor for any fever.

Rhett, noticing Nicole still there, felt a pang of embarrassment.

"Miss Lawrence, you've been such a great help. I'm sorry for the trouble."

"It's no trouble," Nicole replied with a reassuring smile. "It's the least I could do." She handed Rhett the water, and just then, her phone rang. It was the delivery driver.

Nicole had ordered a pot of congee for Rhett, thinking he needed something light to eat. Unable to cook for him herself, she had chosen a highly-rated restaurant on a delivery app.

Nicole rose from her seat. "I'll go get the congee."

“There's no need, Miss Lawrence. I'm not hungry," Rhett said.

But as soon as he spoke, his stomach growled loudly, betraying his words. He felt a flush of embarrassment, and Nicole found it heart-wrenching that he still didn't want to trouble anyone.

"Honestly, it's my pleasure," Nicole said gently. “Let me do something for you. It will make me feel better."

Rhett hesitated and then spoke with surprising openness. "Miss Lawrence, believe it or not, I don't blame you at all. This rare event happening to me can only be attributed to fate. It's nobody's fault."

Nicole was taken aback by his candor. "I didn't expect this."

"Sometimes, life forces you to believe in fate," Rhett said, his expression cryptic.

“Fate can be changed," Nicole responded with determination. "No matter what, we just need to do our best."

Rhett agreed, saying, "You're right, Miss Lawrence."

As Nicole went to retrieve the congee, she spotted Conor hurrying away, deep in conversation on his phone. He didn't notice her, Likely preoccupied with a company emergency.

From a safe distance, Nicole overheard the conversation. “Mr. Schultz's condition isn't good. He can't return to work yet. You'll need to find more help and not rely on him for everything."

Conor entered the elevator, while Nicole remained still for several moments before returning to Rhett's side.

Upon completing his congee, Rhett addressed Nicole, "Miss Lawrence, you should go home. The hospital is adequately staffed with doctors and nurses. I'll manage on my own. Please don't inconvenience yourself."

Nicole indeed needed to depart, intending to spend the evening with Austin. Contemplating hiring a caregiver for Rhett proved challenging given his circumstances. With concerns regarding infection, finding someone willing to take on the responsibility was daunting.