Pamela selected several reports showing no issues and gave them to Declan. "Look, my dear," she said, "why would I lie to you?"

Declan reviewed the reports to ensure everything was correct. Only then did he relax slightly, saying, "Mom, I'll stay home with you for these two days. You still need to take good care of yourself, even if it's just low blood sugar."

Pamela nodded. "Okay. Where's Hailey, by the way?"

Declan retrieved a bag and packed Pamela's belongings. Without looking up, he replied flatly, "She went home. We're just friends, Mom."

"I know many girls liked you back then," Pamela said. "Your sister even saw a girl putting a letter and chocolates in your bag. Her name was Jennifer Barron, wasn't it?"

Lifting his head, Declan said, "Don't bring that up. Hailey's nothing like them."

Pamela smiled. "So you see Hailey differently than the other girls, huh?"

Declan remained speechless, continuing to pack.

"Declan, you're not young anymore," Pamela advised. "Don't miss an opportunity if you've found someone you like. Hailey's a nice girl."

Declan finished packing, slung the bag over his shoulder, offered Pamela his arm, and escorted her out of the hospital. Walking down the corridor, he said softly, "I've never thought about such things. I can't promise her a good future, anyway."

Pamela fell silent. She knew Hailey came from a good family. This is why she'd made it clear to Nicole, in case Nicole's comments damaged Hailey's reputation. Pamela's consideration for Hailey stemmed purely from her affection for her.

"Mom, I only want to solve Dad's problem now," Declan said. "One day, I'll prove his innocence. I'll tell everyone that my father wasn't a drug dealer, but an undercover cop."

Tears welled in Pamela's eyes as she held Declan's hand. "This isn't your burden to bear, Declan." It was going to be a difficult journey for him.

She continued, "I always wonder if your father were still alive, he wouldn't want you to take this path. He'd want you to live a normal life—date the girl you like, get married, have children, and live a blissful life."

Declan helped Pamela navigate the crowded corridor. "Mom, I know what kind of life I want. That life doesn't suit me. I don't have anyone I fancy, nor does any girl like me."

Celine had been waiting for Hailey's return. Seeing Hailey rushing in, Celine approached her.

"You're finally home. I thought you wouldn't be coming home after seeing Declan."

Hailey blushed. "Don't tease me, Celine. Let's go to my—the Lambert residence now."

On the way to the Lambert residence, Hailey recounted the incident to Celine. "Mrs. Zamora's cancer has spread to her heart and brain. She only has two months left, but Declan doesn't know yet. Ever since his father died, he's been living with his mother and sister. I could tell his mother is his pillar. I can't imagine what will happen if Mrs. Zamora dies. Declan might break down."

Celine felt sorry for Pamela's situation. Once cancer spreads this far, there's little hope. However, Celine could help Pamela die more comfortably.

Looking at Hailey, Celine said, "No one can escape death."

Hailey nodded. "It's a good thing I got Declan's number. That way, I can contact him if anything happens."

Celine was astonished. "That's impressive, Hailey. I can't believe you even managed to get his number."

"Celine," Hailey whispered, "I I'm already with Declan."