[13]

"Can we talk?" Leonel asked, following Chloe's steps toward her room. The woman didn't want any help, nor did she complain a word. She hiked up the stairs, feeling each step with the tip of her cane. From behind, Leonel observed how Chloe handled herself in her current condition.

When she found out about her condition, Leonel was at a loss. Not just him but the entire household. Chloe, usually gentle and caring, became emotional and lost control. Her anger kept surging, and she didn't hesitate to throw things around. Profanities flowed effortlessly from her thin lips. But as time passed and her therapy progressed well, Chloe's emotions stabilized.

She returned to being the attentive Chloe, but only towards certain people. Towards Leonel? Cold and completely untouched. If Leonel could say it, Chloe wasn't like the wife he used to know. There was such a wide gap for Leonel to bridge. Usually, a slight smile and sweet words would make Chloe surrender.

But not anymo