"I honestly didn't expect the Daves to be this eager. As soon as they found out Steven was sick and needed their special medicine, they sent someone with it right away," Virginia said softly. "Uncle even wanted to come himself, but I didn't want to trouble him, so I told him not to," she added, her tone gentle. Lance's expression changed slightly, and he asked, "Has the Daves' person arrived at the hospital?" "Yes, and they are preparing to treat Steven," Virginia replied. "Then I'll be there right away," Lance said, pausing as the tip of his pen made a blotch on the paper. He had pressed too hard, and the ink spread, blurring the words. "Thanks so much, Virginia." "It's nothing at all. I'm glad to help," Virginia said, her smile bright. She stood just outside the ICU, phone in hand, her face glowing with delight. The unexpected turn of events had lifted her spirits. The frustration from earlier that day seemed to disappear, replaced by a quiet satisfaction. Leon, now dressed in white, emerged from the room, his face partially hidden by a mask. Whether it was just her imagination or something else, Virginia thought he looked like a calm, experienced doctor. She hurried toward him. "Lance, I'll call you back. The doctor's about to go in. I'll need to help," Virginia said. "Okay," Lance replied, a smile pulling at his lips. She ended the call and turned her attention back to Leon. Meanwhile, Lance put down his phone, snapped the contract shut, and grabbed his jacket, slipping it on. As he walked toward the door, he said, "Get the car ready. We're heading to the hospital." Isaac, who had just finished his morning tasks and was about to take a break, immediately jumped up when he heard the CEO's voice. "Got it. I'll go get the car now." Lance quickly made his way downstairs, dressed and ready."Why's the CEO leaving?" a junior employee asked when they saw him heading out. "He's never left at this time of day before." "Stay out of the CEO's business," another colleague said, knocking lightly on the employee's head. "Did you finish all your work?" "Watch out. The CEO might call a meeting. Don't come crying to me when that happens." Everyone knew how strict the CEO was with work. "If you don't stop gossiping, you'll end up like Isaac," the colleague added with a knowing smile. Immediately, the employee stopped talking, straightened up, and returned to their desk, getting back to work. Isaac, who was always by Mr. Johnston's side, had a hefty salary, but the work never slowed down. He was expected to handle the workload of three people. Isaac parked the car downstairs, opened the door for Lance, and watched as the man got in. Isaac had spent so much time with the CEO that he could almost read him like an open book. As he started the car, he glanced at the rearview mirror, noting Lance in the backseat. "Sir, why the sudden trip to the hospital?" From the look on Mr. Johnston's face, Isaac could tell his mood was decent, at least for now. "Virginia got someone the Daves to help out," Lance replied, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the window. His eyes were locked on the world outside, but his restless fingers betrayed his unease. "That's good news," Isaac said, a grin spreading across his face. "With the Daves involved, Steven's bound to improve." If Steven recovered, Mr. Johnston's mood would likely improve too. Isaac wouldn't have to worry about walking on eggshells at work anymore. The car sped through the streets toward the Johnston Enterprise private hospital. ... Leon adjusted his white mask and opened the ICU door, stepping inside. Just as he was about to close the door, a hand reached out to stop him. He looked up to find Virginia standing there, flashing him a smile so flattering it almost made her eyes disappear into slits."Mr. Daves, let me help you," she said. Leon took a quick glance at her. She wasn't wearing the proper protective gear and still thought she could enter the ICU? His lips twitched, but he waved her off. "Thanks for the offer, but it's alright. I've got it." "I can help, really," Virginia insisted, her voice thick with persuasion. "It's always easier with an extra hand." She saw the Daves as something almost mythical, rare, and now was her chance to make a good impression. She couldn't miss it. Even if they didn't remember her, at least she could leave some impression. "No," Leon said, his voice calm but unyielding. Without waiting for another word, he slammed the door shut and moved toward Steven's bed. Virginia, left standing outside, hesitated. Her smile faltered. She turned and walked to the nearby window, watching Leon's every move, feeling the sting of rejection. Leon opened a wooden box and removed a piece of medicine. His hands moved smoothly, grinding the substance into powder with practiced precision. His movements were so professional, they made Virginia regret her earlier behavior. She bit her lip, recalling the way she had acted—so eager, too forward. Had she pushed her luck? Would Leon hold it against her? Her thoughts were interrupted as she remembered the look on his face when he slammed the door. It was clear he had no interest in engaging with her. Virginia was used to her charm working wonders. Few men could resist her smile, and even fewer would dare turn their back on her. Yet, there he was, acting as though she hadn't spoken a word. The thought unsettled her, and a wave of frustration washed over her. She stood there, replaying the moment in her head when the door had slammed, wondering what went wrong. The sound of footsteps broke her thoughts. Virginia turned quickly, her eyes meeting Lance's as he strode toward her. His pace was fast, his figure tall and commanding, his gaze unwavering. Isaac, who was trying to keep up, looked like he might be running just to stay on his heels."Lance, you made it!" Virginia smiled, hoping to mask the regret she felt. "Has the doctor gone in yet?" Lance asked, his tone sharp as he stopped in his tracks. "Yes, he's inside now," Virginia answered, gripping his hand. "Don't worry. With the Daves involved, Steven will be fine." Her words were meant to comfort him, but they also reassured herself. Lance looked down. He noticed how her lashes brushed against her cheeks, and how her dark eyes—like deep, misty grapes—held concern for Steven. It struck him harder than he expected. Without thinking, he reached out to touch her hair, his voice soft. "Thank you, Virginia." "You don't have to thank me, Lance. It's what I'm supposed to do," Virginia replied with a playful pout. "If you keep saying thank you, I might get annoyed!" Lance's lips curved into a smile at her playful tone. His hand moved instinctively toward her cheek, but midway, he hesitated. He pulled it back abruptly. "Uh, Lance ... ?" Virginia blinked, puzzled by his sudden change. Lance quickly averted his gaze. "I'll check on Grandpa." He withdrew his hand and moved toward the window. His eyes fixed on Leon, who was absorbed in his work over Steven. Virginia stood there, lost in thought, her eyes following Lance's retreating form, trying to make sense of everything.