When Zoe entered the room, Lucas had to exert considerable effort, using persuasion and some medication to stabilize Barrett's emotions a bit.

Barrett held his phone, persistently dialing a number.

Perplexed, he asked Lucas, "I've changed my number. Why isn't she answering my calls?"

He had enough self-awareness to understand that since the previous number couldn't reach Zoe, he knew she had blocked him. Hence, he switched to a new number.

Before Lucas could respond, Zoe entered, her voice icy. "Stop calling. I've blocked your new number too."

Barrett stared at Zoe in disbelief as if he had gone mad or confused. Without hesitation, he grabbed a nearby unused needle...