When Roxanne finished her oatmeal, Lucian adjusted her bed and removed the bowl. They stared at each other in silence for a long time. The silence spoke volumes.

Roxanne, having rested all day, found it difficult to fall asleep. Nevertheless, she closed her eyes, avoiding Lucian. He, exhausted from a long day, soon drifted off.

Minutes later, only soft, rhythmic breathing filled the ward. Roxanne opened her eyes and looked at Lucian. His jacket covered her blanket; he wore only a thin shirt, his arms folded across his chest, appearing uncomfortable.

Hesitantly, Roxanne got up and quietly approached him. She gently draped his jacket over him. Seeing his handsome face up close stirred a turmoil of emotions. It was the same gorgeous face from six years ago, but she was no longer the infatuated girl. She didn't know how he saw her, nor did she want to find out. She just wanted a peaceful life with her two children.

Suddenly, a sense of relief washed over her. She switched off the lights and returned to bed. A million thoughts raced through her head, hindering sleep.

Ironically, the earlier sounds from the bed had awakened the light sleeper, Lucian. Hearing her approach, he feigned sleep. She stopped before him, and he detected her faint fragrance, his heart quickening, his breathing uneven. Sensing her gaze, he maintained his pretense until hearing her return to bed.

He slowly opened his eyes, his gaze remaining fixed on the bed for the rest of the night. That night, neither slept well.

The next morning, a commotion outside the ward woke Roxanne.

"The children are worried about Ms. Jarvis," Lysa said helplessly. "They've been asking to see her since dawn."

Archie's anxious voice followed: "How is Mommy? Is she still sleeping?"

Lucian's hoarse voice replied, "Yes. You should go in later." He hadn't slept much. Before he could doze off, the children had burst in, wanting to see Roxanne. Seeing she was asleep, he ushered them out and closed the door.

Archie, despite his frown, obediently complied, noticing Lucian's haggard appearance. Benny peered through the crack in the door, hoping to glimpse Roxanne, but to no avail, sulking in disappointment. Lysa held Estella, equally worried, her wide eyes fixed on the door. The children waited quietly in the hallway after their father reminded them Roxanne was sleeping. Peace was restored.

A warm feeling washed over Roxanne, realizing the children's worry. Touched by their concern, she wanted to welcome them. As she sat up, she met Lucian's gaze through the door's small window. Her heart pounded. While she considered how to respond, he averted his gaze, then told the children, "You may enter now," before opening the door.

The children's eyes twinkled at the sight of Roxanne. They rushed to her.