Agnes found herself in a VIP hospital ward, a place that felt more like a luxury hotel than a medical facility. Brayden and Kerri had been with her for the better part of the day, but she urged them to go home by evening, feeling guilty for having taken up so much of their time. As they departed, an enveloping silence filled the ward.
From her bed, Agnes could gaze through the expansive floor-to-ceiling window. The curtains were open, revealing a panoramic view of the city, illuminated by countless twinkling lights. Lost in thought, she tried to find clarity amidst her tumultuous feelings. It felt as though she was trapped between an insurmountable cliff and a past she couldn't escape.
Her contemplation was interrupted by a knock at the door. Expecting a night-shift doctor, she invited them in. The door revealed a familiar face: Ryder, clad in a white coat.
"Why are you here?" Agnes asked, her surprise evident.
Ryder replied, "I'm on duty and noticed your name on the roster." Given that Agnes was under observation for a possible concussion, and Ryder was a neurologist, their encounter wasn't entirely unexpected.
Despite the logical explanation, Agnes' demeanor remained cool, particularly when reminded of Alyssa upon seeing Ryder. "I'm fine," she said curtly.
Ryder approached her, concern evident in his voice, "Agnes, was the incident between you and Jared related to me?"
"It wasn't about you, Ryder. Please leave. I need to be alone right now," Agnes retorted, her emotions raw and tumultuous as she grappled with the uncertainties of her future.
But Ryder didn't leave, "My mentor is your main doctor, I'm responsible for your condition now."
Agnes glared at him, but Ryder seemed very calm.
"You don't want to talk, I won't ask, but you need to rest well now, don't overthink. I'll come see you again tomorrow."
"Ryder, don't you understand what I'm saying? I don't want to see you again, please don't show up in front of me, I really really dislike you now, you know?"
Agnes said it all in one breath.
Ryder's face changed slightly, "Even disliking me needs a reason."
"No reason, I just don't want to see you."
Ryder said, "Then there's really no way, I'll come to check on you early tomorrow."
Agnes averted her gaze, choosing to ignore Ryder as he exited the room. Two young nurses near the door hushed their whispers upon seeing him, looking as timid as frightened birds.
The following morning, as a nurse was taking Agnes' temperature, she inquired, "Rumors are saying you're Ryder's girlfriend. Is that true?"
Startled by the question, Agnes began to clarify, "No, I'm his..." but she was cut off by a tall figure appearing at the door.
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