Chapter 68

Melina's quiet resilience and vitality seemed to suggest that she could break through all the darkness in the world. Toby, who was standing close to Melina, found himself frozen and mesmerized by the sight before him. Melina glanced at Andrew on the shore, then at Toby in the water. She tilted her head slightly and flashed a cute, playful smile at him. "Dr. Ludwig, thank you for coming to save me." Toby snapped back to reality. "It's nothing, as long as you're okay." Though the pond's edge wasn't very high, Melina's dress made it difficult for her to climb out. Toby instinctively reached out to support her after noticing her struggle. His hand rested on her waist and gently lifted her up. The softness beneath his hand made him suddenly aware of what he was doing, and his expression shifted. What was he doing right in front of Andrew? Then, Melina's light and crisp voice broke through again. "Thank you, Dr. Ludwig." Toby suddenly felt grateful he had jumped in. Without him, Meli