Chapter 16

FEW DAYS LATER**

Ben found himself immersed in his work throughout the day, surrounded by a sea of papers that seemed to grow with each passing hour. The relentless task at hand had taken a toll on him, manifesting in a throbbing pain that pulsed through his head and heavy eyes that begged for respite.

Seeking a momentary escape, he leaned back in his swiveling chair, allowing his head to rest against its supportive surface. His fingers gently massaged his temples as he felt the persistent ache in his forehead. He brushed his hands through his face from his forehead down to his chin.

A fleeting desire for relief prompted him to rise and walk towards the bedside table.

Opening the drawer, he retrieved a small container of pills. Popping a couple into his hand, he dry-swallowed them before turning his attention to a waiting glass of water. The cool liquid provided a brief reprieve as he downed it, momentarily easing the strains of the day.

His relentless focus had been directed toward