Eleanor's words were entirely objective and rational, devoid of any personal emotion.

lan knew she was right from a medical standpoint.

"I understand what you're saying," lan said hoarsely, but then his voice grew firm and low. "But I don't need it."

The finality in his tone was unmistakable.

Eleanor's calm voice suddenly took on a note of frustration. "Ian, relying on you as the sole donor is a huge risk. Besides, you've only given blood a few times and you're already sick. Don't overestimate your own physical resilience."

The tension in lan's brow suddenly eased, and a faint smile touched his lips.

So, her insistence on keeping Vanessa was also hiding a concern for his health.

"Are you worried about me?" lan's voice softened, a hint of pleasure lacing his words.

On the other end, Eleanor's tone grew even colder. "An unstable donor is a potential risk. Evelyn might need you in the future."

lan faltered for a moment, but quickly regained his composure. "Don't worry, I know my own body. Getting sick this time was an accident, and I'll be more careful from now on. As for the donor-"

He paused, his voice becoming resolute again, almost explanatory. "Eleanor, I know you're thinking about the Goodwin family from a professional standpoint, but some choices can't be made based on pros and cons alone."

Eleanor let out a cold laugh. "Aren't you the one who always loves to weigh the pros and cons?"

lan's grip on the phone tightened. He fell silent for a few seconds, imagining the mocking expression on her face.

"I'm sorry. I've made a lot of mistakes in the past and let you down," Ian said, his voice low and sincere.

"I didn't call to hear you apologize or to discuss the past. I only care about one thing keeping Vanessa as a backup donor. Thope you won't make an irrational decision based on personal feelings and gamble with the future of your family and Evelyn."

Eleanor's words were like a bucket of cold water, extinguishing the flicker of hope he had for forgiveness.

lan's knuckles turned white as he gripped the phone. He knew she wouldn't give him any chance to apologize or mend their relationship.

Suddenly, a sharp pain pierced his heart, as if it had been viciously squeezed.

After a few seconds of silence, he spoke again, his voice raspy and yielding. "I'll listen to you. We'll keep Vanessa as a backup donor."

He continued, "You're right. An extra layer of security is more responsible for the Goodwin family and fore Evelyn. I was being irrational and didn't think it through."

"I'm glad you see it that way," Eleanor said before hanging up.

Listening to the dial tone, lan slowly lowered his arm, a flicker of disappointment in his deep eyes.

Later, Dr. Lyman returned. As the needle went in for another IV drip, lan lay on the sofa without so much as a flinch. He even took his medicine without protest.

Sitting nearby, Gavin was surprised

by his boss's compliance. In the

past Goodw Mr

I would al

to tough out any illness, bus

try

time, it was as if he couldn't wait to get better.

Then again, with so much on his plate, he really couldn't afford to be down for long.

Just then, Gavin's phone rang. He glanced at the screen and said to lan, "Mr. Goodwin, it's Miss Shannon."