“Love…” he said gently, approaching her bed. “You look pale.”

Lucía kept her breathing shallow, eyes barely open.

“I’m tired,” she murmured.

He leaned closer.

“I’ve spoken to the lawyer. Just as a precaution. In case things… worsen.”

Lucía opened her eyes more fully and studied him.

“Always thinking ahead,” she said calmly.

For a brief second, his composure slipped.

“I’m just protecting what’s ours.”

“Ours?” she repeated quietly.

At that moment, Carmen entered with a tray, interrupting the tension. Alejandro stepped aside, but his glance drifted toward the IV pump. Carmen noticed immediately.