I didn’t disturb Rose for too long since older folks typically went to bed early. I left her room and returned to my own. I then called Lauren since I hadn’t had the chance to visit her tonight. She told me Oliver had been to the hospital again and stayed for a long while before leaving.

I asked, “What did he say?”

She wasn’t enthusiastic when she replied, “I didn’t talk to him. I pretended to be asleep the whole time.”

I sighed. “Maybe you should have a good talk. It’s clear Oliver still cares about you.”

I cautiously advised Lauren, believing she could see the changes in Oliver. He had become more silent and reserved after his wife’s death. There were also various public opinions about their relationship.

Lauren stubbornly told me, “I’ve said whatever I needed to when I returned. I don’t want to get entangled in meaningless things because I don’t have the time or energy for it. I can’t dwell on things that weigh me down.”

I could tell Lauren had grown cold and distant from her