Chapter 307

Author's POV Monday morning dawned, the hospital room steeped in a peculiar atmosphere of calm tension. Aria woke to an empty space beside her, the lingering warmth on the sheets the only evidence that Aiden had been there before his early departure for the airport. She stared at the vacant spot for a moment, a pang of loneliness echoing in her chest, before reluctantly getting up to prepare for the day. Downstairs, Lucy had already laid out a comforting breakfast. The weather today was pleasant, though a touch cooler than yesterday's perfect warmth. Benjamin Jones's test results were due this morning, and Aria needed to be at the hospital to discuss the surgery arrangements with his attending physician. "Mrs. Carter, the forecast says there might be rain later," Lucy said, handing her a neatly folded umbrella as Aria prepared to leave. Aria took the umbrella, offering Lucy a grateful smile. "Thanks, Lucy! I'm off to the hospital! Won't be back for lunch today—I'm meeting Lillian." "Al