Jasmine’s paintings had always been bright and lively. Her girls seemed lit from within, as if she’d poured all the warmth and sunlight of spring onto the canvas. The colors were so vivid, you couldn’t look at them without smiling, as though you were basking in endless light.

But now, everything had changed. Her new work was heavy, somber – filled with sorrow, defiance, and resilience, but also touched by hope, life clawing its way back from the edge. The transformation was unmistakable; she must have gone through something profound.

Standing before her painting, Ivy’s gaze was calm and guarded. Those were things she couldn’t just share with anyone. After a moment’s silence, she simply said, “I’ve been through a lot. Best not to dwell on it.”

Sawyer nodded, understanding immediately and shifting gears. “So, once the exhibition wraps up, if someone wants to buy this piece…”

“It’s not for sale,” Ivy cut in, firm and unyielding. “This one’s for display only.”

“Understood,” Sawyer said.

Ivy’s phone had been buzzing nonstop, but she’d been too caught up talking with Sawyer to check. Only after leaving the gallery did she finally glance at her screen. It was the WhatsApp group.

The stock market had bounced back today, with gains across the board. Everyone was chiming in, congratulating her for the smart call to double down yesterday.

Ivy smiled to herself. The market’s unpredictable. It might crash again tomorrow. Money isn’t truly yours until it’s in your hand. She reminded everyone not to get greedy – a little gain was enough.

No sooner had she sent the message than a private chat icon began flashing. She sighed. Dr. Handsome again. Relentless – just like Micah used to be. Still, when she opened the chat, it felt rude not to reply.

Dr. Handsome: Mrs. Smith, are you feeling better?

Ivy was surprised. She’d been fairly blunt with him before; she’d half expected a man like that to take offense and vanish for good. Turns out he had a thicker skin than she thought.

And, to be fair, the Professor Brown he’d recommended had worked miracles. Her rash was gone, and she felt reborn – she really was grateful.

Mrs. Smith: I’m all better now. That specialist you suggested is truly amazing. Thank you again. Dr. Handsome: I’m glad to hear it.

Ivy stared at her phone for a moment, then her eyes brightened with an idea.

Mrs. Smith: Dr. Handsome, can I ask – do you know Jamison? I heard he’s exceptional, a real rising star among your peers.

Across town, Jamison’s eyes narrowed as he read her message. Was Ivy suspicious? Was she probing him? But if she truly suspected, wouldn’t this kind of direct question be too obvious – almost a warning? Thinking it through, Jamison guessed she might have wondered before, but dismissed it – hence the straightforward question to “Dr. Handsome.” Either way, he couldn’t give himself away.

Dr. Handsome: Yes, I know him. Professor Ludwig is a renowned surgeon – already a senior lecturer at such a young age, with a brilliant future ahead.

He sent the message, but immediately second-guessed himself. Praising himself, even if factual, still felt a little too much.

Ivy read the reply, lips pressed in thought. If Dr. Handsome knew Jamison, perhaps Jamison knew him too? The professional circle wasn’t that big. Dale had once mentioned that Dr. Handsome had performed a life-saving surgery for his niece – a case that had made waves throughout Neo Haven’s medical community. Next time she ran into Jamison, she’d have to ask.

Dr. Handsome: What made you ask about him all of a sudden?

Mrs. Smith: Dr. Ludwig recommended I see Professor Brown at St. Aurelia’s Mercy Hospital. You’d suggested him too.

Jamison’s lips quirked. So that was it.

Dr. Handsome: Professor Brown is a legend. He’s solved countless tricky cases. If you’re ever unwell, you can’t go wrong with him.

Ivy nodded to herself. At least they agreed on that.

Mrs. Smith: Got it. Thanks.

Dr. Handsome: So… you’re not mad at me anymore?