Chapter 172 Comforting Zia

Zia's voice faltered for a moment as she wiped the tears from the corners of her reddened eyes. Then, she forced herself to continue, trying to sound more composed. "I've been with him for years, Owen. I know him better than anyone. He's always been focused on his studies and medicine. It has to be that woman who saw how good-looking he is and deliberately tried to ruin things between us. But now he's made up his mind not to see me again. I don't know what to do—my head's a mess." She paused, clearly embarrassed, and added, "I know it's not professional to bring personal drama into work, but I… I don't have anyone else to talk to. I'm just so frustrated. Tell me, Owen—you're a guy. What do you think? How can I get him to meet me, even just once? What would it take?" I stared at Zia, her large eyes swollen and red from crying. Her youthful face was filled with hurt and desperation, a reminder that she was still just a college grad, struggling to manage her emotions. Her hear