"Your back? Was that also burned? Julia, however, mentioned your abdomen was the affected area."

Caught off-guard, Galilea scrambled for a response. "My stomach was also burned and hurts."

"Is that so?"

Tyrone's gaze bore into her.

His penetrating stare, impossible to overlook, felt like it could unravel all deceptions.

"Yes."

Her eyes evaded his, but she managed a firm nod.

"Oh, I just remembered Julia said your arms, not your abdomen, were burned. Are your arms also aching?"

After a short pause, Galilea's face revealed her realization. He knew the truth.

"You're aware, aren't you, Tyrone? I'm sorry. I shouldn't have Lied.”

Tears pooled in her eyes. “I am to blame. I apologize. I was terrified.

Terrified you'd fall for Sabrina and cast me aside. Your solitary message yesterday made me think you wouldn't visit. That's why I concocted this plot. My yearning for you was unbearable. I...I Love you dearly, Tyrone. I can't survive without you."

Tyrone observed her with icy detachment.

It was hard to discern if her tears were genuine or another performance.

The last time she did something wrong, she also said that it was because she loved him deeply.

He had his fill of such justifications. They bored him.

His expression made her heart flutter. Without a second thought, she slid out of bed, flinging herself into his arms, sobbing. "Forgive me, Tyrone. I promise to listen to your words from now on!"

With one arm supporting her, Tyrone produced a small square box from his pocket, placing it on the table. "In truth, I had a surprise planned for you. Even without your deceit, I would have visited you last night."

"I've messed up. I overthought. I shouldn't have lied. Tyrone, I beg for your forgiveness. I promise to abide by your words from now on."

Gazing down at her, Tyrone said, "You shouldn't entertain such thoughts. You don't have to heed my words. Simply embrace your true self. You've led a fulfilling life during your years abroad. You're perfectly capable of a life without me."