Several days passed, each filled with mounting tension and secrecy. Don found himself struggling with an unexplained discomfort. He wasn't feeling well and he told Amelie about it, their mutual concern leading them to the hospital. In an examination room that smelled of sterility, the doctor conducted a series of tests on Don. 

After a while, the doctor announced, "Don, it seems you have a minor anal fissure. It's a small tear in the lining of the anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements."

Don felt a cold wave of realization wash over him. He knew, without a doubt, the actual cause of his discomfort. The doctor, taking notice of Don's stunned silence, asked him to step aside.

In a lowered voice, he asked, "Don, have you been engaging in anal intercourse?" 

With a silent nod, Don confirmed the doctor's suspicion. His face pale and his eyes filled with fear, he pleaded, "Please, doctor, you can't tell my wife about this."

The doctor nodded understandingly, "Your medical information is confidential, Don. But I strongly advise you to abstain from such activities until you're fully healed. You need to take care of your health."

As Don left the doctor's office, he knew that this was just another secret he had to keep hidden. His life had turned into a maze of lies, and he was getting lost within it. How long would it be before the truth surfaced? He didn't know, but he felt certain that the day was drawing closer.