Felicia glanced at Mike, noting his serious expression. He didn't seem to be joking or lying. So, Stephan had really gone to such lengths?

She was silent for a moment, recalling the soft, sweet, almost saccharine voice she'd heard when she returned his call—delicate enough to leave an impression even over the phone. The owner of that voice had to be a charming and beautiful young woman. It seemed Stephan didn't lack for company.

Felicia looked forward; the light had turned green. She gestured, "You can go now."

Mike resumed driving, this time more slowly. He glanced at her again, his curiosity piqued. "Felicia, are you sure nothing happened to you?"

"Nothing at all," she replied with a light smile, gesturing toward her healthy complexion. "See? I'm perfectly fine. I even gained two pounds while I was away."

Mike raised a brow, puzzled. "So, you went on a trip? Why was your phone off the entire time?"

"I didn't want to be disturbed," Felicia answered casually, brushing off the question.

He seemed to accept the explanation, nodding. "Fair enough. I've done that too—just ditch everything and take off for a while when I'm fed up. No phone, no work. Feels good to just let things slide sometimes." He chuckled. "It's like hitting a reset button. Best stress relief there is."

The car's atmosphere relaxed as he fiddled with the radio, letting a soothing cello melody fill the space.

When they arrived at Felicia's apartment, she unbuckled her seatbelt and stepped out. "Thanks," she said simply, searching her pocket. The only thing she found was the little pouch Carmen had given her.

Mike noticed her hesitation and waved it off with a grin. "Don't worry about it. It's no big deal." He paused. "Actually, if you really want to repay me, I could use your help. My daughter, Sandra, has been having trouble sleeping lately. She keeps waking up in the middle of the night. Got any tips?"

Felicia thought for a moment before nodding. "I can make her a herbal sachet. It should help her sleep better. Give me a couple of days, and you can swing by to pick it up."

"Great! Thanks, Felicia," he said with a genuine smile before driving off. Felicia turned and headed upstairs.

The day had been long, and by the time she reached her apartment, the sun had set. Carmen had left, leaving the place quiet and empty. She exhaled, letting the day's tension drain away as she headed to the bathroom.

Under the warm shower spray, Felicia let the water wash over her, from face to toes. Tilting her head back, she closed her eyes, finally relaxing.

Meanwhile, Mike, driving back to the Lawson residence, decided to call Stephan to let him know Felicia was back. He dialed once, but the call went unanswered. "What's going on?" he muttered, redialing.

In the heart of Seldvale, at one of the most exclusive private hospitals—a Russell family business—Stephan was dozing on a leather couch in a VIP ward. His phone buzzed, but a delicate hand reached out to answer it before he could stir.

Johanna, who had been keeping watch, was the owner of the hand. Just as her fingers brushed the phone, Stephan's eyes snapped open. His voice was low and gravelly. "Who said you could touch my phone?"

The ward instantly froze. His tone was laced with irritation. Johanna, unfazed, gracefully withdrew her hand. "Stephan, you've been pushing yourself for days without rest. I only meant to help. You'll wear yourself out at this rate."

"Get out." His words were cold and unyielding.