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I was discharged after a whole week in that bed, doing absolutely nothing of importance. At least I could go back to work as usual, which was quite satisfying.

Cody picked me up in the afternoon on that day I was finally free.

We chatted for a while in the car as he drove me to the apartment, where Nia, upon learning of my return, had locked herself in her room, embarrassed to welcome me knowing I wouldn't even address her.

So, after returning safe and sound, I lay on my room's bed for a while, waiting for sleep to envelop me as the day passed. Eventually, I couldn't stand it any longer. I sprang up, grabbed all her belongings, and headed to her room.

I gently knocked on the door and, seeing no response, entered the room. She looked up from her laptop, where she was on a video call with Ryan. When she saw me, she set everything aside and stood a few steps away from me.

"So, is love a mental thing, or is it truly something that comes from the heart?" I asked with a slight smile, while