Considering Zoe’s Lack of firsthand experience in my situation, it was implausible for her to comprehend the reasons behind my choices.
However, I found no necessity in seeking her understanding.
Consequently, I shifted the subject and engaged in a serious analysis with her.
“Zoe, have you ever noticed how Debra and Harlan don’t appear to resemble a couple in any way?”
“Certainly.” Zoe nodded
“I share the same sentiment. They seem more like friends bound by some external circumstance rather than a genuine couple.
Sporting a contemptuous expression, Zoe declared, “I have already deduced the reason, and I intend to confront Debra about it.”
Her words piqued my curiosity, igniting a desire to uncover the truth.
Eagerly, I asked, “So, what is it that binds them together?”
“I’m afraid I cannot divulge that information,” Zoe replied, leaving me in suspense.
“How much would it cost me to persuade you to share that secret? What’s your price?” Without any hesitation, I retrieved a black card from my pocket. “As long as you reveal the truth to me, I am willing to offer you an unlimited amount of money.”
Anticipating Zoe’s temptation, I was taken aback by her expression of disgust.
“Leave me alone. Do you think I am the type of individual who would do anything for money?”
Refusing to even glance at my card, Zoe asserted coldly, “I have my principles. It concerns Debra’s privacy, and I won’t disclose it without her consent.”
This made me even more curious.
Even as I returned to the hospital to see Janiya, my mind remained preoccupied with the mystery behind Debra and Harlan’s relationship, as well as the undisclosed reason that Zoe had withheld from me.
“It’s quite simple,” Carlos remarked calmly after being enlightened about the entire story. “Zoe is a woman of her word. If she mentioned her intention to speak with Debra, she will undoubtedly follow through with it. If I assign someone to shadow Zoe discreetly, we can discover their meeting Location and uncover the contents of their conversation.”
I hesitated, expressing my concerns. “But wouldn’t that be rather unethical or invasive?”
Carlos responded, “Yes, I understand it may seem somewhat unethical, but given the circumstances, it appears to be the quickest and most efficient approach available to us.”
Just then, Janiya’s voice resonated from the ward, calling out to me.
“Caleb, I’m feeling thirsty. Could you come inside and fetch me a glass of water?”
Glancing to the ward, Carlos whispered a reminder, “If you don’t unravel this mystery while Janiya is still in the hospital, you may not have another opportunity once she recovers.”
Indeed, his words held truth and resonated with me.
If Janiya’s leg were to fully recover, she would follow me wherever I went.
With no alternative options, I reluctantly nodded in agreement.