Their friendship hit a wall the moment Sabrina confessed.

Before, a simple hug between them was no big deal. But now that everything was out in the open, James felt really uncomfortable even thinking about touching Sabrina. He stepped back, trying to hide how nervous he was.

"Why are you acting all scared? I'm just joking." Sabrina laughed, finding his reaction funny.

James cleared his throat and forced a smile. "Don't joke like that. It freaks me out."

"Alright, alright. It's late, you should head home," Sabrina said with her usual playful wink. "Otherwise, your future wife might start worrying."

Thinking of Esther made James smile. "Okay, take care. We'll visit you again soon."

Sabrina nodded and waved him off with a hint of annoyance. "Just go. Don't disturb my rest."

She turned and lay down. As James was about to close the door, he heard her low voice.

"Would you have liked me if Esther wasn't in the picture?"

"No, I wouldn't."

"Okay, goodnight. I'm going to sleep now."

Sabrina curled up under her blanket, tears slipping out despite herself.

The next day, Pearl went to meet Claude as they had planned.

Claude was already waiting for her at the hospital entrance, greeting her with a smile. "You seem just as curious about the investigation results as I am, Miss Pearls S

"Obviously Pearl gave him a sarcastic look. When he grinned confidently, she couldn't help teasing him, "Feeling lucky today,

Mister Claude?"

His smile vanished, remembering the argument he had with Sabrina that Pearl had witnessed.

"You have a sharp tongue, Miss Pearl." Claude gritted his teeth and glared at her. Then, he smiled and walked into the hospital. Pearl followed him.

In the investigation room, the duty doctor greeted Pearl warmly. She was already a familiar sight there.

"Back for another investigation, Miss Pearl?"

For some reason, Pearl felt a sudden tickle in her nose at his words and touched it, feeling a bit embarrassed.

Claude laughed, enjoying a small moment of payback.

Ignoring him, Pearl got down to business. "Doctor, could you do us a favor and speed up the process?"

The doctor winked at Pearl. "How

about this, Miss Pearl? I'll pull strings for you Come back two hours

and I tell you the result of the

later,

investigation."

Pearl thanked him, and the doctor turned to Claude. "Is this young man your brother? You both look great."

The doctor's attempt at small talk made Pearl glance at Claude. She frowned and responded, "Is it that obvious?"

"You guys do look alike. But Miss Pearl, your features are more delicate."

Claude leaned against the door and smiled. "It looks like we don't need this investigation."

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