Gene looked at Skylar, Howard, and Jacky. "The airport is quite noisy," he said. "You're all familiar faces, especially you, Skylar. This might be overwhelming for him right now. Let's leave. His condition has been fluctuating."

Howard and Jacky exchanged glances, understanding the gravity of the situation. Howard, a doctor, immediately grasped the implications. Paul's mental state had suffered greatly from Joe's death and the trauma of the past three years. His survival until now had been difficult.

Skylar spoke softly to Paul. "It's okay. You're back. That's what matters."

Paul didn't seem to hear at first. After a moment, he looked up at Skylar, his eyes red. His apologies ceased.

"Let's go," Skylar said gently. "It's too noisy. You must be tired. Let's get in the car and rest."

Paul stared at her intently and nodded slowly.

Gene, Howard, and Jacky were relieved to see Paul calm down. His transformation was astonishing.

Once in the car, silence fell. Paul immediately closed his eyes and slept. Gene and Winthrop, equally exhausted, also rested. The car remained eerily quiet until they reached the hospital.

After Paul's admission and initial tests, Howard and Jacky canceled their appointments to stay with him. Skylar spoke with Dr. Chase Maldonado about Paul's condition. The Murida test results were similar; he needed further hospital treatment. Dr. Maldonado could perform facial reconstructive surgery when Paul consented. The leading psychologist in Jipsburg was on call.

Chapter 1269

Paul's repeated apologies had dispelled any lingering doubts in Skylar's heart. Leaning against a hospital wall, feeling weak, she was suddenly grabbed. A deep, familiar voice said, "Are you okay?"

The cool yet warm tone startled Skylar. She looked up, tears glistening, gazing at the man before her.

"You're back," she whispered, her voice hoarse.

Ned's expression changed. He stared at Skylar's tear-filled eyes, his heart aching. He realized she mistook him for Joe. He felt no annoyance; instead, her mistaken identity deepened his pain. He even felt an urge to embrace her.

Then, a voice interrupted. "What are you two doing? Ned, what's going on?"