Chapter 1633

"We do," Dr. Blanc nodded affirmatively. "It's just that we haven't started using the VIP wards yet."

Lily was speechless. After a moment's consideration, she asked, "How is the VIP ward different from the ordinary ones downstairs?"

"You can go and check it out," Dr. Blanc replied, smiling. "If there's anything you're unhappy with, we can discuss it. I have something else I need to attend to. Please help me settle your husband down; we'll discuss his condition in detail later."

He left before Lily could respond.

She visited the VIP ward and found it considerably improved compared to the downstairs facilities. The downstairs rooms were cramped, each with a small, partitioned toilet and shower area. Lily often detected unpleasant odors even through her mask and face shield. Upstairs, however, the rooms resembled simple hotel rooms, featuring ensuite bathrooms, sofas, televisions, and comfortable mattresses.

Alexander was already in bed, sitting up and appearing relatively well. Since the risk of contagion hadn't been eliminated, Lily and the other workers remained in their hazmat suits. Despite their proximity, the suits created a sense of distance; she couldn't even hug him.

"Is this your first time here, too?" Alexander asked, noticing her looking around.

Lily nodded, then shook her head. "More accurately," she said, chuckling faintly, "it's the first time I've even heard of a VIP ward. It's truly..."

"Truly what?" Alexander prompted, seeing her hesitate.

"Nothing," she sighed. "I initially thought everyone was equal in the face of such a devastating disease—anyone could be infected. But there's no such equality. Even with the same disease, treatment varies drastically."

Alexander raised a questioning eyebrow.

"The rooms downstairs are in much worse condition," Lily said casually, "despite many young and elderly patients."

Alexander considered her words. "Are you thinking of moving them into the VIP wards, or of moving me downstairs?"

Lily's trance broke; she shook her head. She wasn't a saint. While sympathetic, the world's suffering was vast, and she couldn't possibly care for everyone. She wasn't that noble.

"No," she said, "I was just feeling a little sad. You can stay here because of your social standing or financial resources, but they can't. They not only endure those wards, but they also won't receive the same treatment you will, even after discharge. That's not something I can change. They have to do it themselves."

"Why are you so sad suddenly?" Alexander asked. "Have I been gone too long, causing you to overthink?"

Standing before his bed, Lily fell silent for a moment, then said softly, "Do you know there's a three-year-old girl downstairs? Her mother died of cancer complications after contracting the virus. The girl is alone in a small room, and no one has checked on her or shown her any concern. She's so young, not much older than Galen..."