No More Sympathy from Percival

“Stay with Mabel,” Percival’s voice was distant, devoid of the warmth Evadne so desperately sought. She could sense the chasm of coldness in his tone, a confusing contradiction to his actions. He had traded Eulalia’s life for hers, a gesture that should signify her importance to him. Yet, his aloofness since her return spoke a different language – one of indifference and detachment.

A wave of hurt swelled within Evadne, her voice quivering with vulnerability. “Percy, won’t you spend even a moment longer with me?”

“I’m needed at the hospital, for Eulalia,” Percival responded, his voice strained, betraying the burden he carried.

“Eulalia... she’s alive?” Evadne’s words were laced with a mix of incredulity and a subtle hint of resentment. The idea that Eulalia had survived, despite the odds, gnawed at her.

The silence on the phone was palpable, and Evadne, realizing her tone, quickly changed the subject. “How is she, really?”

Percival, not keen on elaborating, answered tersely, “She’s st