Before long, Lauren and the proud, pouty Francesca stepped out from around the corner. Both of their faces were flushed pink, and Andrew could not help but wonder what they had been whispering about.

Francesca cast a shy, lingering glance at Andrew, her eyes shimmering with a soft, embarrassed sparkle. "Well, Nyla, you be sure to rest up, okay? I'll visit you again soon."

Then, she turned to Andrew, gave a small wave, and said, "Andrew, I'm heading back to the hospital. Bye!"

With that, she swished her ponytail and walked off, leaving Andrew to watch her retreating figure. He shifted his gaze toward Lauren and asked, "What were you two gossiping about back there?"

Lauren giggled. "Oh? Do you really want to know? Lean in."

Andrew bent down slightly, and Lauren cupped her hand beside his ear, whispering, "I was telling Fran to go ahead and give herself to you… so you can enjoy yourself."

Andrew's expression froze as black lines practically formed across his forehead. "Excuse