?Chapter 673:


    Patting Joy’s head softly, he praised her. “You were very brave today, weren’t you?”


    He then reached into his pocket and handed her the promised candy.


    “This is for you—like I said.”


    “Thank you,” Joy murmured weakly, epting the candy without enthusiasm this time.


    Tension lingered visibly on Eric’s face as he addressed Colden. “Are you certain Joy’s okay?”


    “Yes, she’s fine.”


    Colden nodded reassuringly, giving Eric a curious once-over. What was this man’s rtionship with Joy?


    Clearly, he wasn’t just anyone ordinary—his authoritative presence alone proved that.


    To ease Eric’s obvious worry, Colden exined gently, “These tests can be tough on children, and Joy’s reaction is normal. She’ll recover soon enough.”


    “Understood.”


    Eric nodded, understanding, though his expression remained troubled. Eric gently adjusted Joy in his arms, attempting toy her down on her bed for her to rest properly.


    “Hold me!” Joy’s voice trembled softly. “You don’t like me anymore?”


    Feeling somewhat ufortable, Melba suggested carefully, “Your arms must be getting tired from holding her so long. Maybe I should take her instead? Kids tend to cling when they’re sick—it’s normal.”


    Was that how children acted?


    Eric had no idea and simply assumed Joy would be feeling better lying down. Now that he knew, he couldn’t bring himself to release the fragile girl in his arms.


    “No, I’ve got her.”


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    Shaking his head, Eric kept her in his arms, gently soothing her. “Joy, I’m sorry. How could I ever not like you? I just thought you might want to lie down.”


    As he whisperedforting words, Eric slowly paced around the quiet ward.


    “You’re my favorite little girl.”


    ncing uncertainly toward Melba, Eric silently asked if he was handling things right.


    Teary-eyed, Melba nodded reassuringly.


    Even without Melba’s answer, Eric could sense Joy rxing gradually in his embrace, her sobs quieting.


    “Hey.”


    Joy nestled in his arms, speaking through her sniffles.


    “Yes?” Eric immediately tilted his head, listening intently. “What’s wrong?”


    “Strawberry milk,” Joy said shyly. “I want strawberry milk.”


    “Oh no!” Eric groaned, genuinely upset. “Ipletely forgot to bring any!”


    Frustration flickered across his face, his regret unmistakable. He’d met Joy multiple times, yet it hadn’t crossed his mind to buy her favorite drink.


    “Hold on just a second.”


    Bncing Joy carefully, Eric quickly dialed a number. “It’s me. Bring some strawberry milk over right away, yes—quickly.”


    When the call ended, he turned back toward Joy with a reassuring smile.


    “Don’t worry, Joy. Your favorite strawberry milk will be here before you know it.”


    “Really?”


    Joy looked up with eyes shimmering, and then threw her little arms around Eric’s neck tightly. “You’re the best! I like you so much!”


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