Amber's POV: After dropping Curt off at the hospital, I reminded him, as always, to call if he needed anything. He waved goodbye, smiling, but I felt a pang of reluctance in my chest. I found myself walking back, giving him one more tight hug and a kiss on the forehead. Even after all this time, leaving him hadn't gotten any easier. But there wasn't much choice—I forced myself to turn and head out. On my way back, I made a quick stop to find Samuel and let him know I couldn't make dinner. "I'm sorry, doctor, but I won't be able to make it tonight. Something's come up, and I need to head back." Samuel looked a bit surprised. "But dinner's almost here... Is everything alright?" "I'm not sure yet, but I'll only know if I go back." I tried to hide my unease. It wasn't like I had any rea