“I’m not sure yet, but we’ll proceed as planned for now. He seems interested in me.”

The other person offered reassurance. “There’s no rush. We can take our time.”

Tracy, hesitant to delay, replied, “I’ll proceed cautiously.”

“Get some sleep. It’s late.” The call ended.

Tracy put down her phone, her nerves buzzing with frustration. Her resentment toward the Ruiz siblings ran deep; she blamed them for a past threat on her life. She hadn't expected Dolores to survive the car crash, yet she had unexpectedly awakened.

Anxiously gnawing her nails, Tracy struggled to calm herself. Finally, she turned on the radio, hoping for distraction. She happened upon a replay of Elyse’s radio show.

Tracy’s heart quickened at the sound of Elyse’s voice, then settled. The discussion between Elyse and the host was concluding when the host requested a musical performance.

Elyse replied thoughtfully, “I’ll play ‘Lullaby.’ I know everyone works hard and deserves comfort when they get home.”

As the soothing melody began, Tracy leaned back, gazing at the dimly lit street outside. Whispering, she murmured, “This melody is hauntingly beautiful, Elyse. It stirs a deep yearning for home.”

The lullaby’s soothing notes relaxed Tracy, melting away her stress and replacing it with weariness. Fighting off yawns, she finally began her drive home.

Meanwhile, Lowell arrived at the hospital. Dolores was staring at the ceiling when she heard footsteps. Turning, her eyes lit up at the sight of Lowell.

Noticing her excitement, Lowell gently warned, “Take it easy. Don’t get too worked up.”

The doctor approached to update Lowell on Dolores’s condition, explaining that while she was awake, she required further hospitalization and wasn't ready for discharge. Lowell nodded. After the doctor left, he moved closer to Dolores, his expression puzzled.

“You seem upset. Is there something you need to tell me?”