Chapter 304

Scarlett opened the door and found Edmund standing just outside. Her heart skipped a beat. "Edmund? You're still awake at this hour?" Edmund asked, "Is Mr. Stroud still in your room?" "Yes. I'm just finishing up his treatment," she replied. Worried he might not believe her, Scarlett stepped aside and offered, "Would you like to come in and watch while I remove the needles?" "That won't be necessary," Edmund said. "The session has gone on quite long, so I thought I'd check in. If it's wrapping up, please ask Mr. Stroud to return to his room and get some rest." "Alright. I'll remove the needles right away," she said, then turned and hurried back inside. Scarlett gently removed the acupuncture needles, then leaned down and said, "Xavier, the treatment is finished. It's very late. You should head back and rest." "Xavier? Can you hear me?" She called again, but there was no response. Instead, Xavier shifted in his sleep, hugging the throw pillow tighter and turning his back to the