Chapter: 559
Norah's voice carried a blend of warmth and anticipation, pulling Alice back from the brink of sleep.

The promise of meeting Norah's friends nudged Alice awake. She opened her eyes slowly, greeted by the sight of Norah. Norah was adorned in a white apron, her chestnut hair elegantly pinned up, yet playfully framing her face with a few loose strands. Even without makeup, her beauty was undeniable.

Norah, smiling, tilted her head slightly, the spatula still in her hand. "Breakfast is almost ready. Go freshen up." Her voice was a soft, enticing melody, convincing Alice with its sweet, persuasive tone.

Alice cherished these moments, drawn to Norah's gentle voice, always desiring to offer Norah the very best in return. "Alright, I'm up.

I'll be quick."

Recovering steadily, Alice navigated her wheelchair with ease, grateful for the independence it afforded her.

In the bathroom, Alice found everything prepared by Norah's thoughtful hands. Warm water filled the basin, her toothbrush prepped with toothpaste, and all her essentials were conveniently placed.

Touched by Norah's kindness, Alice caught her reflection. Golden locks cascaded down her back, her eyes a deep sea blue. A secret weighed on her, one she had chosen to keep from Norah. Brushing her teeth, she pondered, deciding once more to keep her silence.

Norah, completing the breakfast preparations, removed her apron and approached the table with a plate in hand. It was then she noticed Alice approaching in the wheelchair, ready to start the day together.

The table was set with two enticing breakfasts, their aroma filling the room.

"Oh, Norah, your cooking is amazing!" Alice exclaimed with a joyful tone. She eagerly took a bite. "That's it! It's still the familiar taste. Delicious!"

Norah, who often cooked and dined solo, didn't see her culinary skills as anything out of the ordinary. She expressed remorse, "I regret not making something like this for you while you were in the hospital. I was swamped with work then. I..."

Alice cut in, "Just hiring a nurse to care for me was more than enough. Norah, you've been incredibly kind to me. You don't owe me anything."

Norah had been wrestling with guilt, feeling that her marriage to Derek had led her to neglect Alice's feelings. Alice's injury had only intensified these feelings of remorse. Yet, hearing Alice acknowledge her care was unexpected.

Norah, Lips pursed, replied softly, “Alice, it's not like that at all.

I want to do even more for you."

Alice's laughter filled the room. "Well, that's fantastic because I love being pampered and won't be shy about it. I'm looking forward to how you'll treat me during my stay in Cesland."

Alice's playful defiance brought a smile to Norah's face.

Norah found solace knowing Alice was happy. Through their time together, she understood that beneath Alice's cheerful exterior lay a myriad of bottled-up emotions.

Seeing Riss again presented an opportunity for Alice to confront and release the pent-up emotions. Expressing her sadness and feelings could help her gradually let go of them, paving the way for emotional healing. In this way, Norah believed, Alice's mental wellbeing would flourish.

Norah, though not a psychologist by profession, had encountered numerous cases and heard countless stories throughout her career.

Alice's situation wasn't uncommon. It mirrored the experiences of many other girls. Finding a genuine relationship proved to be a challenge.

After they finished their meal, Norah drove Alice to Silver Boulder Private Hospital.

Norah had several reasons for personally visiting Silver Boulder Private Hospital: to cancel leave directly to Jamison, to pay a visit to Joanna and Kason, and coincidentally, to introduce Alice to Joanna.