Jessica turned around to leave, her steps quick and firm. But Donald reached out and stopped her gently.
"What about her treatment?" he asked, his voice low, almost desperate.
Jessica paused. Her eyes softened, and she spoke calmly. "It will cost a lot... I'll need to find some rare herbs, ones that are difficult to get."
Donald frowned. "I don't care about the cost. The Santiagos are not poor. No matter how expensive it gets, it won't ruin them," he said, trying to convince himself as much as her.
She nodded. "For now, I'll leave some prescriptions with the dean. It'll help ease her pain and stabilize her a little while I go looking for the herbs."
Donald felt a wave of relief wash over him. "Thank you," he said quickly, his eyes filled with gratitude. Then, after a small pause, he asked, "Would you... like to have lunch with me?"
