Penelope's reaction to certain things was sometimes a bit slow, or perhaps Zoe's sudden statement caught him off guard. He didn't even realize the implications of her words for a while, remaining silent.

Seeing his lack of response, Zoe felt embarrassed and regretted blurting it out. She hastily changed the subject, mumbling, "It's nothing. I... I just said it casually. No need to dwell on it. I'll go ask the doctor if my dad needs to change his medication."

She stood up in a fluster, wanting to leave the room. The decision she had made just moments ago was so sudden that she wasn't sure if she had truly made...