"Congratulations, Lydia."

From 17 to 22, they were in a relationship for six years. I watched from the sidelines for six years, and I suffered for six years.

4

"Ms. Hill, the company is not doing well. Without additional funding, it will be difficult for us to develop the next project."

"I understand. You can leave now."

I leaned on the desk, rubbing my temples.

Withe can't collapse. It's the result of Leon's and my hard work. It's my only legacy in this world. I can die, but Withe must survive.

I opened my phone and dialed. "Lydia, it's me. Which hospital are you in?" Seemingly shocked, Lydia was silent for a long while.

"Central Hospital, 7th floor, room 07. Violet, are you coming to see me?" Her voice was gentle.

"Yes, I'm on my way."

Lydia said to Leon, "Leon, Violet is coming to see me. Should you go pick her up?"

"She has a driver. You still need to have an IV later, and someone should be with you." Leon poured her a glass of water. "Lydia, take your medicine. There's a lot of it. You can take it in two doses."

It was 7th floor, room 7. Leon still liked the number 7 as much as before.

His luck was back, but where did that leave me?

I held a bouquet of carnations and saw Leon sitting close to the bed, holding Lydia's hand. I knew he was warming it for her.

Lydia often had IV treatments in winter. Leon, afraid she would be cold, would always warm her hands like this. I knew that.

I knocked on the door.

"Good morning, Violet!" Lydia said, carefully pulling her hand free from Leon's grip.

"Good morning. How are you feeling?" I put down the flowers and sat casually on the chair without making eye contact with Leon.

"I'm feeling better. Once I'm discharged, we can get together again." Lydia seemed to have come to terms with her physical condition.

I changed the subject. "Leon, can you go home today? I want to discuss something about Withe with you."

Leon looked at me and gave a slight, disdainful laugh as if he thought I was up to some trick.

I lowered my head slightly, digging my nails into my fingers, feeling a mix of anticipation and fear.

I prayed he wouldn't refuse me in front of Lydia.

"I'll be home for dinner tonight," Leon said, and both Lydia and I looked up at him at the same time.

...

The wall clock struck nine. It was nine o'clock. Since I came back, the front door had been silent.