I pretended not to notice, cheerfully explaining, “A friend told me this device is incredibly sensitive. The data uploads to the cloud in real-time and syncs directly with your doctor. This way, even when Damian isn’t by your side, he can always know how you’re doing. See? Your sister-in-law takes good care of you, right?”

Damian’s brow furrowed, but he couldn’t find any fault in my words. They were dripping with concern.

Clara’s hand, holding the device, trembled slightly. She forced a smile that was uglier than a grimace. “Thank you… it’s just… I’m used to the hospital’s equipment, this one…”

“Oh, that won’t do,” I interrupted, feigning worry. “Your condition is so unpredictable. And speaking of which,” I changed the subject, my tone even more enthusiastic, “I ran into an old family friend today who happens to be very close with Professor Reed from Johns Hopkins. When I told him about your rare condition, he was so sympathetic that he pulled some strings and scheduled a comprehensive consultation for you with Professor Reed himself.”