Chapter 2

Dr. Reed paused for a beat, then shook his head.

I yawned, said goodbye to Dr. Reed, and headed home to sleep.

I was soaking in the tub, twirling Dr. Reed’s business card between my fingers. The photo on it, a younger version of him in what looked like a prep school uniform, flashed a confident, slightly mischievous smile right at the camera.

I couldn't help but chuckle. “Alex. Reed.”

The next morning, I bought breakfast and headed to the hospital. I ran into Dr. Reed on the way, so I walked up to him and offered him the food.

He was a bit distant with me, but I didn’t give up, pestering him every day. He always maintained a cold, indifferent attitude.

One day, I bought breakfast again, looking for Dr. Reed. I ran into Dr. Miller instead. Dr. Miller smiled. “Looking for Alex again, huh? Alex isn’t on duty today. He should be resting at home.”

I asked Dr. Miller for Dr. Reed’s home address. I reached an old, rundown apartment building, the narrow street reeking of… everything. I frowned, pinching my nose slightly.

I knocked on Dr. Reed’s door for what felt like ages, but no one answered. So I just… kicked it in. Inside, I found him lying on a small, worn cot, covered in bruises and cuts.

I had no choice but to carry Alex back to my place and call a private doctor.

Seeing him so battered, a wave of pain washed over me. I went out to the balcony to clear my head. The weak figure on my bed slowly opened his eyes. I looked at him. “I’m awake?”

Alex looked at me, his voice hoarse. “Where is this? How did I get here?”

I sighed dramatically. “This is my place. I carried you here. Seriously, you’re so damn light. I’m not short, but picking you up felt like nothing. Like I barely used any strength at all.”

Alex started to get up, ready to leave. I stopped him. “It’s already evening. Stay for dinner before you go. Don’t tell me you’re not hungry?”