She looked at Farris, worn out and pleading, and felt a swirl of emotions.


    “I get where you’reing from.


    You’ve always been the understanding type, even from day when we first met.


    ” Her voice was steady.


    “But Mina is different.


    She’s hurt me a lot, and I can’t just forgive that.


    I have to be honest.


    She made her choices.


    Nobody made her do it, and we’re not to me for her actions.


    ”


    As Ste stood her ground, Farris hesitated, his mind going back to when she had stood up for him in the orphanage.


    Back then, he was a lot less sure of himself, only finding his footing after his foster parents took him in.


    Facing Ste’s unwavering gaze, Farris gave a sad smile and asked, “Do you still remember who I am?”


    Ste, slightly confused but smiling, answered, “Of course, I do.


    You’re a good doctor, Farris, and you’re my friend.


    ”


    Farris’ face tensed a bit.


    He parted his lips, ready to speak, when Matthew’s voice cut in.


    “Ste!” he called out.


    Ste looked over, then told Farris, “I should get going.


    Mina’s situation…”


    Her eyes met Farris’, as she was caught in a moral quandary.


    Farris gave a knowing nod.


    “Understood.


    Go ahead.Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Sorry for bringing it up.


    ”


    Ste cast another nce at Farris, silent, then turned to leave.


    Farris watched her walk away, experiencing a sense of relief.


    He had been searching for Ste for years.


    Yet now, seeing her with someone so suitable, Farris thought it best to step back.


    If she had let go of the past, he wouldn’t bring it up.


    It felt right to be just friends again.


    A smile of contentment spread across Farris’ face.


    He waved in Ste’s direction, saying, “Farewell, Ste.


    ”


    At his words, Ste paused, looking back.


    Farris was already heading to the cinema.


    She pulled her gaze away and rejoined Matthew.


    “We should head back.


    ”