Chapter 9

"Alright, alright, don't overwhelm Thalia! She just had surgery and needs rest," a gentle female voice interrupted the well-wishers, carefully tucking in my blanket. "Beatrice..." My voice choked, a lump forming in my throat. Cash's mate, Beatrice, lightly flicked my forehead: "I prefer 'Bea'!" She pretended to be stern, but her eyes were soft. "Remember? Back at the Academy, you said 'Bea' sounded like honey in the sunshine." Of course I remembered. We had been inseparable, studying and playing together. Until I abandoned my medical studies for Toric, and our friendship faded. After the observation period, they insisted on seeing me home. Dr. Collins's rough hand enveloped my cold fingers. "Listen, Thalia," her voice was lower than usual, her other arm gently circling my waist as I walked slowly. "Everyone makes stupid mistakes in life, like pups always falling into mud puddles." She suddenly squeezed my knuckles. "But this time, I'll teach you one final lesson: even covered in