Chapter 9
Chapter 9
After the cast was set, Ash returned to the hospital room and took me home, carrying me with the same tenderness he’d shown since the night of the engagement party.
In the weeks that followed, worried I’d be bored, Ash stayed home with me instead of going to the office.
He worked remotely, never leaving my side.
Each morning, I’d wake to find him already alert, typing away on his laptop beside me in bed.
He’d pause whatever million–dollar deal he was working on just to help me adjust my pillows or fetch me water.
At night, he’d massage my uninjured foot without my asking, his strong hands gentle as they worked away the day’s tension.
When it was time to remove the cast, he wanted to have a private doctor come to the house, but I refused.
After being cooped up for over a month, I needed some fresh air and preferred going to the hospital.
Ash frowned but didn’t argue – he’d learned when to yield to my stubborn streak.
Getting out of the car at the hospital, I insisted I could walk, but Ash wouldn’t hear of it. “Your ankle just healed,” he said in that quiet, firm tone that brooked no argument. He scooped me up as if I weighed nothing, one arm under my knees, the other supporting my back.
Unable to win that argument, I gave in, but the stares from people around made me self–conscious.
I buried my face in his chest, breathing in his familiar cedar scent. His heart beat steady and strong against my cheek.
Near the hospital entrance, one of Julian’s friends stood frozen, coffee cup halfway to his lips.
He recognized my profile immediately – but the man carrying me was turned away, his broad shoulders and dark hair the only visible features.
The friend’s phone was already out, thumbs flying across the screen as he watched this mysterious man carry me through the hospital doors with such intimate familiarity.
