Chapter 180

Benjamin's sharp gaze locked onto Arthur's face. "Speak." Arthur hesitated, fumbling for the right words. "The doctor also said… He suggested that you… That you…" Benjamin's expression darkened, his tone cutting. "Enough. I understand. Leave." Without another word, Arthur bowed his head and quickly retreated from the room. Benjamin stayed on the balcony a moment longer, finishing his cigarette in silence. When he returned to the bedroom, Shirley was already fast asleep. Her frail figure lay motionless on the bed. It was so delicate it seemed as if even the slightest touch might shatter her. That night, Shirley's fever came and went, spiking and falling repeatedly until it finally broke at dawn. A chill spread from her lower abdomen, making her eyelids twitch. She remained still, keeping her eyes closed, waiting until the presence beside her faded before daring to open them. Throughout the night, she had drifted in and out of sleep, vaguely aware of someone by her side—someone w