Each word struck like a hammer against his heart. He never imagined that during all those times Athena seemed to be struggling alone, she actually had such a family background all along. Fabio was her father! The Rices were a powerhouse in the business world. His mother had always felt Athena's status was too lowly, that she was completely unworthy of him. But now Athena had found her father and proven her identity. Who would dare to question her background now? An indescribable excitement surged through Zaden's chest. He took a deep breath, suppressing the lump in his throat. He turned to Fabio, his gaze solemn and earnest, speaking each word carefully. "Thank you." This expression of gratitude carried immense weight. It wasn't just for today's life-saving blood that had turned the tide at the critical moment, but also for all those years of unknown, silent protection and care. He was grateful to this man for holding up a shelter for Athena where she couldn't see it. Fabio waved his hand dismissively, his expression showing a trace of relief in letting go of the past. It wasn't that he didn't care, but rather that he'd chosen to place the more important future ahead. His gaze fell on Zaden again. That scrutiny remained, but it had quietly merged with a new warmth. It was the kind of approval given after careful assessment. "Zaden, everything between you and Maya is in the past." His tone was calm and clear, carrying the decisiveness of the head of the Rices. Then he said, "Since you've chosen Athena, you'd better stay with her for the long haul. Don't dwell on the past, and don't even think about chasing anyone else!" These words were both a warning and a father's solemn entrustment of his daughter's future happiness. Zaden stood still without any hesitation or objection. He met Fabio's gaze, his eyes frank and unwavering, as if making the most solemn vow. "I've chosen Athena. For the rest of my life, it's Athena. There will be no one else!" Each word rang out clear and resolute. This wasn't a promise but a fact already carved into his bones and blood. Just then, the operating room doors opened once more. That soul-searing red light finally went out. The lead surgeon walked out with exhausted steps, pulling off his mask, his face showing the exhaustion of a brutal battle. "The surgery was a complete success. We've completely stopped all bleeding points, and her vital signs have stabilized. What incredible luck! Thank goodness the blood supply came in time. We'll observe her for a while longer, and if there are no issues, she can be moved back to her ward." "Success ... " Zaden murmured. Those words shattered all the fortifications of strength he'd been desperately maintaining! He suddenly leaned back, his solid spine pressing heavily against the cold wall, barely managing to support his body that had been drained of all energy. He needed that cold sensation to confirm this wasn't a dream. Thank God ... his Athena had really been saved! His nerves, stretched to their absolute limit, suddenly relaxed, bringing a wave of intense dizziness and weakness. Yet his eyes couldn't help but flood with burning moisture. On the other side, Fabio's shoulders, which had remained tense and upright, finally relaxed in this moment. He let out a long breath of air that had been held for far too long. In those eyes that had weathered many storms, relief and tears clearly shimmered. Behind him, Preston and Kit exchanged glances, both showing relaxed expressions. Their tightly clenched fists slowly loosened. Soon, medical staff wheeled Athena out of the operating room. She remained deeply unconscious, her face pale and fragile as if she might shatter at a touch. Her long lashes rested quietly, casting small shadows beneath her eyelids. But her breathing had become much steadier. Her chest rose and fell gently with each breath, showing the return of vitality. ... In the hospital room, time seemed to flow at a slower pace, quiet and warm. The evening sun's afterglow happened to shine through the bright glass window at an angle, spilling into the room and gilding the pure white sheets, quiet equipment, and everyone's silhouettes with a warm, soft golden edge, dispelling all gloom and coldness. After what felt like an eternity, Athena's thick, long lashes fluttered as she slowly opened her eyes. As the anesthesia gradually wore off, clear, dull pain came from deep within her body, making her involuntarily furrow her brows. However, the first thing that came into her blurry vision was Zaden's enlarged face, marked with deep worry, stubble showing on his jaw yet still unable to hide his handsome features. He'd kept vigil too long. His eyes were filled with bloodshot veins. "Athena! You're awake?" Zaden's voice was extremely hoarse. He immediately gripped her cool hand tightly, his grip so strong it was as if he wanted to transfer his own strength to her, yet also as if afraid that the moment he let go, she would disappear. Athena weakly blinked, trying to give him a comforting smile, but found she lacked even the strength to move the corners of her mouth. Then she sluggishly noticed the hospital room didn't contain just the two of them. Her gaze slowly moved, and she saw Fabio sitting on a couch not far away, his posture upright, naturally commanding respect, as well as Preston and Kit standing quietly behind him with their distinguished bearing.