After a brief pause, he ventured a guess.
âIs it a menstrual disorder?â
A couple passing by caught snippets of their conversation.
They gave Barlow a curious glance, their expressions mingling amusement and disbelief.
Embarrassed, Karina pleaded, âCould you not discuss my personal issues in public?â
Although it wasnât a severe issue, it felt inappropriate for a man to discuss such matters openly.
âIâm just overly concerned about you,â Barlow explained, clearing his throat.
Was he truly concerned?
If he genuinely cared, he would not have kept secrets from her.
Karina internally scoffed.
Noticing a medical report in his hand, she questioned, âAre you here for a follow-up on your leg?â
âYes,â Barlow confirmed, without evasion.
Recalling the incident where his old wound had acted up at the hotel, Karinaâs worry deepened.
She snatched the report from
his hand and pressed, âWhat did the doctor say? Is your leg healing properly?â
Observing the worry etched on her face, Barlowâs eyes briefly Lit up with a smile.
âWorried about me?â
Karina didnât respond; instead, she opened the medical report.
âIf my leg gets worse, youâll have to look after me.
After all, you were the cause of my legâs relapse,â Barlow said in a teasing tone.
Karina remained silent, focusing intently on the report.
Realizing he was fine, she breathed a sigh of relief.
She looked up, meeting his amused gaze, and tapped the report against his chest in annoyance.
âDo you enjoy teasing me all day long?â
What a troublesome man.
He never seemed to change.
After stowing the report, Barlow grinned.
âItâs enjoyable! You make me happy.
â
He continued to smile, his voice cheerful.
Karina bit her lip and started walking ahead without a word.