---- With those words, I turned and walked away from that place of nightmares. I returned to the research base in Alpene. The familiar sea breeze brushed gently against my face. Looking at the busy colleagues all around me, I felt a swirl of emotions. "Juniper, you're back." My mentor came over and gently patted my shoulder. Inodded and gave a faint smile. "Yes, I'm back."' He looked at me, concern flashing in his eyes. "I heard you went through a lot... Are you okay?" I shook my head and took a deep breath. "I'm okay now. It's all in the past." From that day on, I occupied myself with scientific research. The lab became my sanctuary. Every drop of reagent ---- and every data point brought me peace. One day, my mentor suddenly asked me, "Juniper, have you really decided never to marry?" I paused, then smiled in quiet relief. "Yes. I've found the work I truly love. Love and romance... That's all behind me now."