章 99: Unknown visitor

Theodore's heart ached for her. The vulnerability etched on her face, the silent cries wracking her body, it tore at him in a way he hadn't anticipated.

"You must be tired," he murmured, breaking the silence that had enveloped them. "Let's go home."

Bella didn't respond. She didn't want to move, didn't want to relinquish the fragile comfort his embrace offered. For now, at least in his arms, she could find a brief respite from the storm raging within her.

"Don't worry about here," he assured her. "I'll make sure the nurses take good care of her."

Bella met his gaze, her eyes red-rimmed and glistening with tears. A flicker of gratitude sparked within them. "Thank you, Theodore," she whispered. "Thank you for helping me, being so kind to me, for everything you've done. It means more than words can express. I could never repay your kindness."