The healthcare physician examined Walden once a week, but with so many elderly patients to manage, early detection wasn't guaranteed.
"It's not your fault, Tilda. There's no need to beat yourself up over this," Claire reassured her.
In reality, Walden's declining health had absolutely nothing to do with her.
As a fiancée who hadn't even officially joined the family yet, she couldn't be
expected to visit him every single day-people would have started gossiping.
Tilda wasn't desperate to force her way into the marriage, and even if she wanted to play the dutiful caretaker, her own family would have objected.
After all, she was cherished by her own parents.
Unfortunately, Claire's words did little to soothe Tilda's guilt.
Tilda made a monumental decision. "I'm transitioning from a frontline role to a behind-the-scenes position."
"My schedule won't be as demanding, and I'll actually have time to take care of Walden."
Claire was stunned.
Dane had always described Tilda as a fierce, career-driven woman.
Growing up, she had outperformed every boy in their elite social circle.
For someone like her to willingly step into the shadows right at the peak of her career-how many golden opportunities would she be throwing away?
More importantly, someone used to the spotlight would inevitably feel a crushing sense of loss fading into the background.
Did love really make people this blind?
Claire quietly shot a glance at Dane.
She knew, without a doubt, that she would never sacrifice her own career for him. "Aren't you going to regret it?" she asked.
She was on an upward trajectory and could have easily transitioned into high-level politics.
Tilda gave her an amused look. "Claire, you're way too innocent."
"Look at my family's background, and then look at the family I'm marrying into. Do you honestly think stepping behind the scenes means I'm giving up my career?"
With vast resources at her disposal, it would be foolish not to leverage them.
Claire blinked, slowly processing the reality of the situation.
It seemed she was the only one worrying over nothing.
Tilda didn't care about the spotlight; stepping back might actually fast-track her ascent to power.
And that was exactly the truth.
Tilda had been due for a major otion anyway, but she had
chosen to stay in
trenches to gain mor the net
She loved the thrill of the frontlines, where she could flex her dominance and shine.
But pulling the strings from the shadows had its perks, too.
"...I guess I was being narrow-minded," Claire admitted, picking at her nails.
This was entirely different from the tragic housewife sacrifice she had imagined.
"Besides, slowing down for a couple of years isn't a bad thing. I was burning the candle at both ends anyway."
"I'm giving myself a two-year window to get married and have a baby."
"Once the kid is old enough, I'll dive right back into empire-building."
"Don't worry, Claire. I would never abandon my ambitions."
Claire gave Tilda an enthusiastic thumbs-up. "Tilda, you're my ultimate role model. An absolute powerhouse!"
If Van didn't have such a high-stakes military career, Claire would have boldly suggested he become a stay-at-home dad.
Tilda burst out laughing, clearly
delighted. "You'll be just as fierce et
With how brilliant and driver you are
Dane might end up being the one who..."
Dane leveled a look at Tilda. "If Claire ever
10 take over the
stay.
corporate empire, I'd gladly home and manage the hot
He genuinely didn't mind letting his future wife take the reins.
Though, knowing Claire's dedication to medicine, she would likely be working around the clock at the hospital anyway.
Dane was seriously considering cutting back on his executive duties to match her demanding schedule.
Healing was a sacred calling, and Claire was born with the mission to save lives.