Declan's lips were cool and pleasant to kiss. Despite having no kissing experience, Halley had secretly observed others. She hadn't expected it to feel so good.

Meanwhile, Declan stiffened, his eyes remaining open. He noticed Halley's eyes were open, too—large, innocent, and curious. He understood her curiosity; at a certain age, people naturally develop desires and explore them with those they like.

She pressed her soft lips to his, then quickly kissed the corner of his mouth. A wave of warmth, tingling, and numbness flushed his body. Her fingers remained around his neck, their bodies close. She soon sensed the change in him.

Curious, she asked, "What's that? It's touching me," sliding her hand lower. Declan immediately grabbed her wrists, stopping her. "Have you had enough?"

His expression remained cold and indifferent, yet Halley wasn't afraid. She withdrew her hand. "No."

"What else do you want?" he asked.

Hailey pulled out her phone and opened WhatsApp. "This is my WhatsApp code. Send it to add my number." Declan found her request excessive. "You—"

"If you add my number, we'll be even. We won't owe each other anything," she added quickly.

After a moment's consideration, Declan added her number. Her profile picture showed her bathed in sunset light; her sweet smile and stray strands of hair made her look youthful and beautiful. He glanced at it briefly before looking away. "Done," he said, turning to leave.

He's leaving already? Doesn't he want to spend more time with me? Hailey wondered. She examined his profile—a black picture and the name "Declan Zamora." She checked his status, but it was empty. Despite learning little about him, she was pleased to have his number.

Meanwhile, Declan stepped to the window, letting the cool wind refresh him—a novel sensation. He disliked spending time with Halley because he always retained her sweet scent. After composing himself, he re-entered the ward to find Pamela awake and packing.

"Mom, why are you up?" he asked urgently.

"Declan, I'm much better. Let's go home," Pamela replied.

"But Mom, I haven't gotten Dr. Mort's report. I'll collect it now."

Pamela stopped him. "Dr. Lyon gave me the report earlier. I'm fine; my blood sugar was low. That's why I fainted."

Declan was unconvinced. "Really?"