Carl's voice was low. He talked about nothing but Jessica's studio in the end.
Jessica listened quietly without interrupting him.
Until his voice gradually faded away.
It seemed like he fell asleep again.
Jessica was hugged by Carl with her back against him, so she could not see his face, nor could she confirm whether he had really fallen asleep again or not.
She stared at the ceiling in the darkness and asked, "Can you stop working overtime?"
In the dark and empty room, the unanswered questions seemed lonely.
Jessica waited for some time, but she didn't hear Carl reply.
She felt a steady and even breath later.
He did fall asleep again.
Perhaps this was the answer.
She believed that Carl's kindness to her was entirely sincere.
But playing nice didn't mean he loved her.
Maybe he did that only out of habit.
It was always hard to quit a habit.
The next day.
When Jessica woke up, she heard the sound of water from the bathroom.
With a creak, Carl opened the door and came out of the bathroom. He saw Jessica leaning against the bed. He grinned, showing his healthy teeth to her. He looked just like a teenager.
"You're awake now?"
Time left a mark on her, but not on him.
"That early?" Jessica asked him.
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