"It's just that, what?" Austin asked, curious.

"It's a pity my apprentice, Lily, is so talented but not focused on medicine. She's obsessed with perfumery. If she hadn't switched, her medical achievements would be boundless!" Dominic exclaimed, his voice laced with emotion.

He had always opposed Lily's passion for perfumery, deeming it useless and lacking medical merit. Yet, her talent was undeniable, and she quickly made a name for herself. Dominic, a witness to countless lives lost and won, had recently realized even the most skilled doctors couldn't mend broken hearts. Many things, he acknowledged, were beyond his control.

Letting go of his objections eased his blame, though his pride lingered. They didn't speak for years. Then, he vaguely heard she was dating someone. Later, he learned of her subsequent breakup and unexpected marriage—events that occurred long before he knew. Lily, strong-willed, endured much alone.

This reminded Dominic of himself. Perhaps his extra affection, when he secretly took her on as an apprentice, stemmed from recognizing their shared stubbornness.

Austin was speechless. "Lily would be even more capable now if she hadn't given up halfway," he finally said. Even now, she surpassed him; it was hard to imagine her accomplishments had she continued in medicine.

"Uncle Dom, you have such faith in Lily, I believe she can cure you," Austin said, pulling up his granduncle's blanket. "Rest now. Don't worry."

Dominic glared, then nodded slightly. "You shouldn't worry either. Though this happened because of you, you aren't to blame. Understand?"

Austin nodded. "I do."

Yet, Dominic knew his grandnephew still felt responsible. Ultimately, confronting such feelings rested solely with Austin.

Dominic took a deep breath and closed his eyes. He was exhausted.

Austin began packing immediately. Mopping blood, stripping soiled sheets, he stood small at the door. "Galen?" he called out instinctively. "Why are you here? Move back!"

Dominic's eyes snapped open at the child's name. He turned, his face lighting up at the sight of Galen. "What are you doing here, boy?"

"Grandpa..." Galen's voice softened Dominic's heart. The boy stumbled, reaching for Dominic's embrace.

"Don't move!" Austin shouted, startling Galen, who froze.

Dominic glared at Austin. He understood the precaution, yet Austin's actions had frightened the child.