**[Clinic Follow-up – Early Morning]**
“You need rest," the doctor said, flipping through Aileen's charts.
“I am resting," she muttered.
“Not here," he corrected. “Your transplant labs show early markers of rejection. Nothing critical yet, but if you don't slow down..."
“I have a center to run."
“You have a body to keep alive," the doctor snapped.
Beside her, Nathan leaned forward. “What do you recommend?"
“Seclusion. No stress. No late nights. No decisions."
Aileen opened her mouth to argue.
Nathan cut her off. “We'll go."
She turned to him, eyes narrowed. “Excuse me?"
He stood. “You get three days. I'll take you somewhere quiet."
“I don't need—"
“You need to live," he said. “And for once, you don't get to fight me on that."
---
**[Later – Coastal Highway, Passenger Seat]**
