Weeks later, a courier left a padded envelope on Helen’s desk. Inside lay the Geological Bureau’s official report, embossed in silver: Ward Discovery Verified. The preface read, “Acknowledging Dr. Caleb Ward and attending physician Dr. Helen Sloane for recovery and confirmation.” She traced the letters slowly, feeling how much they contained.
That afternoon, she visited the rehabilitation wing. Rachel was already there, arranging tulips beside Caleb’s bed. His color had returned; his eyes followed every motion with quiet amusement. When Helen entered, he smiled faintly. “Two familiar faces,” he said. “Doctor and Ray—my north and south poles.”