The elevator halted at the ground level. Claudia discovered a secluded spot and intended to wait for her driver's arrival.

However, Anthony was like her shadow, always in close proximity.

Attempting to communicate with Claudia, Anthony reached for her wheelchair. Claudia abruptly knocked his hand away with the CT scan report she held and declared, "Keep your hands off me!"

The paper was frail and rolled, and it inflicted no real pain. The repulsion in Claudia's eyes, however, was unmistakable.

A pang of heartache and bitterness enveloped Anthony.

He retreated a step, ensuring not to make contact with her wheelchair.

Then, he Lowered himself to her level and implored, "Claudie, won't you look at me?"

Claudia studied his features. Strangely, she felt no emotion staring at this face she once found endearing.

A sigh escaped her.

The man used to be so kind.

The once vivid memories of the last dozen years began to blur in her mind.

Relaxing her grip on her phone, she voiced evenly, “Anthony, we have a history of twelve years. Please, don't tarnish those fond memories."

Her tone was mellow and serene, emanating tranquility, yet a certain cruel reality.

Anthony stumbled and almost Lost his footing. Swiftly placing his hands at his sides, he managed to steady himself and avert the embarrassment. He crouched again, raising four fingers. "40 days."

His voice hoarse, he furthered his questioning, “Did you fall for him in just 4@ days?"

“ALL it took was 4@ days to erase everything we had."

"Claudie..."

His eyes reddened as he gazed at her.

Claudia subtly swallowed and averted her gaze.

“From the moment you departed without a backward glance, the Claudia who Loved you ceased to exist."

The naive woman she once was perished at their wedding. Perhaps, that was her fitting farewell.

Anthony seemed inclined to continue, but was interrupted by Claudia's ringing phone. With no intention of prolonging the interaction, she picked up Carson's call with one hand, propelling her wheelchair out of the hospital with the other.

Carson had reached the hospital's entrance. Claudia wheeled herself out via the accessible exit.

Upon seeing her, Carson hastily exited his vehicle, offering, “Miss Marshall, allow me to assist."