Jarrod regarded Elodie with a calm, almost indifferent gaze.

Even with a touch of makeup, she still looked pale-there was a distinct weariness about her that makeup couldn’t quite cover.

His brow furrowed slightly, but he stood up anyway.

Alexander knew Elodie didn’t want to be surrounded by people she wasn’t close with. Even though he was worried about her, he kept a polite smile and turned to the others. “Thanks for coming, everyone. I’ll stay with Elodie. I’ll treat you all to dinner soon, to show my appreciation.”

He couldn’t have been clearer in asking them to leave.

Naylor, ever the gentleman, nodded and glanced at Elodie. “Alright. If you need anything, Mr. Sterling, just let me know.”

He agreed it was time for them to go there was no point in crowding around, making Elodie more uncomfortable with all the checks and attention.

Jarrod simply murmured his agreement and headed out without so much as another glance at Elodie, showing neither special concern nor hesitation.

Sylvie watched his retreating figure and finally let out a small, knowing smile. She’d been overthinking earlier. Jarrod had only stepped in to help out of basic decency, nothing more.

She followed him out.

Naylor took one last look at Elodie. She’d already closed her eyes, so he didn’t bother with further pleasantries, just offered a simple, “Hope you feel better soon.” When the three of them were finally gone, Elodie felt like she could breathe again. But Alexander’s expression darkened. “How did it get this bad? What did the doctor say?”

Seeing how worried he was, Elodie found herself unable to speak for a moment. “It’s nothing, just a bruise. Doesn’t really hurt,” she managed, still unsure how to tell him the truth.

Knowing Alexander, he’d insist she focus on getting treatment instead of letting her continue with the VistaLink Technologies project.

At the very least, she believed she could hold out a little longer. Unless things truly got out of hand, she didn’t want everyone panicking and worrying about her -especially not now, with her uncle about to go in for surgery. Her grandmother couldn’t handle another blow.

Feeling a bit steadier, Elodie said, “Could you get me some water?”

Alexander didn’t question it. He just nodded and went out to find a convenience store.

Elodie checked the time. As expected, the doctor returned soon.

He glanced at her test results, frowning. “There’s some abnormal swelling in your uterus. It’s enlarged in places, and there’s bruising, but no internal bleeding. Have you had any unusual symptoms before? Any discomfort?”

Elodie knew he was suspicious, and that he’d probably order more tests before making a diagnosis.

She replied matter-of-factly, “I have cancer.”

Her composure stunned the doctor into silence.

“It’s just bruised from the impact. Please treat that for now,” she added.

As for the cancer-that was a different battle.

The doctor nodded, regaining his professional demeanor, though his tone was more serious. “You’ll need to stay overnight for intravenous antibiotics and anti- inflammatories.”

Elodie nodded and, forcing herself upright despite her weakness, went to arrange the emergency admission.

When Alexander returned, Elodie glanced at the clock. “Alex, you should head home. My grandma’s on her way. She’ll stay with me tonight.”

Alexander knew it would be awkward for him to stay, given the circumstances. “I can call Sophie to come instead. Grandma’s not young anymore.”

Elodie smiled and shook her head. “It’s fine. The doctor said it’s just a stomachache and I’ll be fine after some fluids. Don’t worry.”

Alexander wanted to protest, but Elodie didn’t give him a chance and ushered him out.

Soon, a nurse came in to start her IV.

By late afternoon, Elodie’s phone rang. Her grandmother’s voice came through, anxious, “Sweetheart, are you at the hospital?”

“How did you know?” Elodie was surprised.

Her grandmother sounded even more worried. “Jarrod came by today. His driver told me you were sick. What happened? Is it serious?”

Elodie rubbed her temples and tried to reassure her. “It’s nothing, just a sudden stomachache. I’m fine now.”

But her grandmother wasn’t convinced. “I’ll ask Jarrod to come look after you. Don’t be scared, alright?”

Elodie’s expression shifted. “Grandma, really, it’s not necessary. I’m already feeling better.”

Her grandmother insisted, “Honey, if you won’t call on your own husband at a time like this, when will you?”

There was no arguing with her. Not really.

Moments after she hung up, there was a knock at the door.

Elodie turned her head and saw Jarrod step in, carrying a thermal food container.