Mansfield stared up at the ceiling, his vision blurring as love, guilt, and a stubborn reluctance all tangled in his chest.


    It was the final word on a love that could never be.


    From now on, he would step back into the role of a friend. Whether she pursued her career or found love, he would sincerely wish her the best.


    Later, Mansfield was taken for more detailed examinations to ensure all his bodily functions were recovering steadily.


    Ten minutester, Garth took a call. Afterward, he went to Eleanor''s room. He stood at the door for a moment before his assistant knocked lightly.


    "Mr. Vice President,"n said respectfully.


    "Ian, thank you for your hard work." Garth''s expression was sincere and heavy. "There''s an urgent matter in Kingston I must return to immediately. I''m not worried about Mansfield with Principal Maxwell and Dr. MacLeod here, but Eleanor..."


    He nced back into the room, his eyes filled with a paternal affection, and sighed. "She truly gave her all for Mansfield this time."


    "The doctor said she''s just exhausted. She''ll be fine with some rest,"n said in a low voice.


    Garth looked back atn, his tone formal and full of trust. "After I leave, I''ll have to trouble you with Eleanor. Please, take good care of her."


    He paused, his voice growing more earnest and powerful. "The Ellington family is deeply indebted to you and Eleanor. We will never forget what you''ve done."


    Coming from a man of his position and power, the words carried immense weight.


    This acknowledgment and


    fot


    friendship from the Ellington family, from the Vice President himself was an unspoken promise of support his future, but it also ced a heavier responsibility on his shoulders.


    Garth looked at him deeply, his appreciation for the young man''s character and perspective growing He nodded, said no more, and gaven''s hand a firm shake before~ turning to leave, nked by his entourage.


    The room was quiet, filled with the rhythmic beeping of the machines and the sound of Eleanor''s shallow breathing.


    He reached out and once again took the hand thaty outside the covers, feeling the warmth returning to her palm.


    Just then, Eleanor stirred in her sleep.


    He thought she was waking up.


    Panic surged through him, mixed with the guilt of someone caught stealing.


    He knew Eleanor disliked his touch. If she were awake, she would never want him holding her hand like this.


    Fortunately, Eleanor merely frowned in her sleep before settling back into a deep slumber, showing no signs of waking.


    This stolen moment of closeness, while she was unaware, was something he craved, yet he was constantly terrified of her rejection.