Camila turned to him, her heart heavy with guilt. She felt she had failed him as a partner, unable to provide the peace of mind he deserved. Instead of easing his burdens, she had added to them, leaving him to worry about her safety and distracted from his own responsibilities.

She bowed her head, gazing at Joe cradled in her arms. Joe was raised mostly by Rowena. Now, the newly-born baby was also under her care.

“Isaac, give me two years. The director chose me for this project. Leaving now would put him in a bind, unable to find a quick replacement. Two years should suffice to complete my work. Afterward, I'll resign to be with you and the kids at home."

Isaac faced her, sensing the weight on her shoulders. Grasping the steering wheel with one hand, he gently caressed her cheek with the other. “What's troubling you?"

"Nothing." She offered a smile. "Since you're the breadwinner, I'll just enjoy life at home."

Isaac had often heard from Forrest about Camila's aspirations. How could he stand by and watch her sacrifice her dreams for their family? Would she truly be content?

“Didn't you promise to support me? Are you backtracking now?" Isaac questioned, half-jokingly. “I might not be able to support you alone. You're quite high-maintenance."

Isaac found himself at a loss for words. Her remark left him puzzled.

What did she imply by calling him high-maintenance?

“There's no need to overthink," he reassured her, holding her hand firmly. "You have me, don't you? There's nothing to fear."

In that moment, Camila felt the comfort of having someone to depend on. "Thank you," she expressed sincerely.

"You're my wife. No thanks needed between us."

Meanwhile, Forrest found himself weary from the travel yet restless in bed. He was tormented by a mistake he couldn't overlook, feeling revulsion each time he reflected on it. The realization of his actions, especially since they involved a prostitute, made him bolt upright in disbelief. He left the bed for the study, hoping to distract himself.

He had been out of town on business, gathering files for review.

Originally planning to address them at the office the next day, his sleeplessness drove him to start working through the night.

Laura was awake too, nestled by the bay window, gazing at the stars.

Buzz.

The phone at her feet jolted to life. Picking it up, she heard the urgent request. "Laura, come to the police station right now."

“Okay," she responded, readying herself for what awaited. She dressed quickly and stepped outside.

Noticing Morrison's presence, her brow furrowed. “Are you already back on duty? You haven't fully recovered."