Chapter 168

She laid out exactly what she wanted, no beating around the bush. Hearing Fiona’s words, Ethan’s brows furrowed instantly—he clearly wasn’t on board with the idea. Then, her soft voice drifted into his ears. “My condition’s not gonna improve overnight, and honestly, I don’t like hospitals,” Fiona said slowly. The look in her eyes turned serious as she locked eyes with Ethan. “I don’t sleep well here. I’d feel much more comfortable at home.” “Fiona…” Ethan said her name, his voice a little tight. “I get it—we still need the surgery. But it’s not happening tomorrow, and I can't just stay stuck in here forever,” she cut him off. Her eyes didn’t waver, filled with quiet determination as she held his hand tightly. She lowered her gaze ever so slightly, as if hiding something deeper. Then, she said it word by word, “I want to go back home—with you by my side.” She paused for a moment, her tone turning a bit helpless. There was something so fragile in that helplessness, it tugged at your hear