Chen asked carefully, aware of the sensitive nature of his patients past. Aaliyah stood up, straightening his jacket with careful movements. “It has everything to do with it,” he replied. “And with a little girl who brings me breakfast every morning, not knowing she’s delivering so much more than food.” Dr. Chen watched as his patient walked to the door, noting how Elias’s shoulders seemed lighter despite the heavy news they’d just discussed.
“Alias,” he called out, causing the older man to pause. Whatever you’re planning, just remember your limits. Physically, you need to be careful. Elias turned back, his eyes bright with something that looked remarkably like hope. Some things are worth any cost, Marcus. I’ve waited far too long already. As the door closed behind him, Alas pulled out his phone again, scrolling through old photographs, frozen moments from decades past that he’d studied so often he’d memorized every detail.
