Chapter 31: Secrets, Struggles, and the Search for Redemption

The aroma of the roast duck tantalized Mariana's senses. Her stomach rumbled insistently. Yet, as she brought a forkful of the succulent meat to her lips, a wave of nausea washed over her. Her head throbbed in protest, and fatigue weighed heavily on her limbs. With a sigh, she lowered the fork back to the plate. She managed a single bite, the savoury flavours momentarily sparking a flicker of pleasure. However, the joy was short-lived. Mariana pushed the plate away, frustration welling up inside her. "This doesn't make sense," she muttered, her voice hoarse. "I'm starving, yet even the thought of another bite is repulsive." She glanced around the room. "Why am I like this? It's just food. Roast duck, for goodness sake! It used to be my favorite." The creak of the door sent a jolt through Mariana, breaking her from her internal monologue. She glanced up to see Tiago enter the room and beside him Dr. Sanchez, with a worn leather bag slung over his shoulder. "Dr. Sanchez," Marina