Angela smiled. “Go on, dear, your friend's waiting. No need to keep me company just for the sake of it."

Patience is a virtue, she reminded herself no sense rushing things.

Today was just the first step; it wasn't the time to linger.

Emily Blair stood up. "Alright, then. Take care of yourself, okay?"

As soon as she left the hospital, Emily's phone buzzed. Elizabeth Wilson had sent

her a more detailed file-information about the expert medical team Angela would need, as well as possible treatment plans.

Elizabeth Wilson: [I've sent it to a doctor I know for review, but haven't heard back yet. Take a look in the meantime.]

Emily Blair: [Got it.]

Elizabeth Wilson: [Did you go to the hospital already?]

Emily Blair: [Just left.]

Elizabeth Wilson: [Did you see her?]

Emily Blair: [Yes. We talked for a bit. Nothing more.]

Elizabeth Wilson: [Do you think they'll agree to help? After all, Isabella Austin did save their family. Maybe that'll convince them?]

Emily Blair: [That depends on what your doctor thinks about the specialists Isabella recommended and the treatment plan.]

Elizabeth Wilson: [True. It might not be great to rely on that, but honestly, it's the only leverage you've got.]

Emily Blair: [One step at a time.]

In the days that followed, Emily juggled her responsibilities at the company and the ongoing issues with Ryan Cox. Whenever she found a spare moment, she'd stop by the hospital or the coffee shop. Over time, she grew more familiar with Rose Ward and Angela, and they with her.

But she still hadn't found a way to move things forward.

Two days before the competition, Rose Ward sent her latest piano composition to Isabella Austin.

Isabella's reply came almost immediately: [Let me try it out. If I'm satisfied, I'll send payment right away.]

Rose stared at her phone, took a deep breath, and didn't reply.

That evening, as usual, she clocked out at six and caught the subway to Central Hospital-her daily routine.

But tonight, something was different.

Earlier, her grandmother had told her about a young woman she'd met at the hospital-a truly lovely girl, she said.

At first, Rose hadn't thought much of it. With so many people coming and going, it wasn't unusual to meet someone new.

Still, she asked, "How did you meet her?"

Angela beamed. "Her friend's in for a broken leg, so she's been visiting every day. We kept running into each other. She's such a sweetheart-the very first day, she helped me fetch some water and carried my thermos back. We've had some wonderful conversations since."

Rose smiled, handing Angela a cup of warm water. "As long as you're getting along."

Angela grinned mischievously. "Oh, we're more than just getting along! She even takes me out for fresh air sometimes. Honestly, I wish she could be my granddaughter. She's such a lovely girl."

Rose shot her a mock glare. "What's wrong? Isn't one granddaughter enough for you?"

Angela gave her a sideways glance. "Are you jealous now?"

Rose huffed, but couldn't hide her amusement.

Angela continued, “I mean it. I really enjoy talking to her. I look forward to her visits every day-it's lifted my spirits a lot."

Rose said, "Just don't trouble her too much."

"I know, I know."

Suddenly, Angela clapped her hands. “Oh, that reminds me! We took a photo

together the other day. Zoey took it for us. Want to see?"

Rose, having nothing else to do, shrugged. "Sure, let's see it.”

Angela called out into the hallway, "Zoey! Zoey, come in here!"

Zoey was the nurse they'd hired to help care for Angela—a woman in her forties with years of experience, reliable and attentive. She hardly ever left Angela's side, and Rose was more than pleased with her work.

When Zoey entered, Rose greeted her, "Shirley."

Zoey nodded, then turned to Angela. "What can I do for you?"

Angela's eyes were bright with anticipation. "You took that photo of me and the young lady, didn't you? Show it to Rose."

"Of course."

Zoey pulled out her phone, opened the photo gallery, and found the picture. She handed the phone to Rose.

Angela nudged her. "Take a look! Isn't she a pretty one?"

As Rose took the phone, she asked, "Do you know her name?" Angela nodded. "Yes, it's Scott Clark. Clark as in 'to remember."" "Alright, got it," Rose said, nodding as she glanced at the photo.